Slow, tedious, over-acted, pretentious - how many different ways can you film something through something else?
But the worst thing is that they have changed the ending, and don't explain their new version.
Despite the fact that they drag it out so such a ridiculous length, they miss out lots of key plot elements from the book. The great secret when finally (partially) revealed is completely different from Dickens' ending, and makes no sense. You are just left asking questions.
A complete waste of time.
Try one of the older versions - it may make sense - or read the book.
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I have been a fan of Doctor Who since about 1976 - when I was very young - and on reflection, I am now of the opinion that the strength of the series is always in the writing - with all of the Doctors having high and low points.
Strong writing really shows here. This is probably the best of the 4 new series. If you are looking to make a choice between the new box sets, then this is a good one to begin with (as is series 1). Unfortunately, series 3 and 4 seem to be going down a more "soapy" route but fortunately, and without revealing any plots, the schmalz is mostly kept to tolerable limits in this box set.
Nice comedy moments, action adventure, and for the most part unsanctimonious straightforward fun.
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Season 3 was by far the most entertaining and well-rounded season in the shows history (so far at least, with the 7th season forthcoming). This season captured and brought out in the best of ways all the little traits that make this show what it is.
Almost all the episodes of this season can be described as "classics", from the amazing premiere to the fulfilling finale. Although it is hard to play favourites with this season, stand alone episodes include:
-They Shoot Gilmores, Don't They? (the series 50th episode celebrated in a very special -Stars Hollow- kind of way)
-Dear Emily and Richard (a bittersweet look in the Gilmores family past)
-Those Are Strings, Pinocchio (a very moving episode that concludes Rory's high ... Read More:
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Simply brilliant - the ISIHAC regulars plus Jeremy Hardy doing what they do best - making people laugh. All the favourite rounds are here in the equivalent of two extended radio shows. The teams simply sit at desks on stage, much like a radio recording, and perform. Humph is thoroughly bored, irritable and bemused throughout, barely tolerating the proceedings at times. Jeremy Hardy's singing is hilarious, especially his rendition of 'Thank you for the music', while the old hands are on top form. A fabulous tribute to a wonderful man, recorded just weeks before Humph's death, this is a must-own for all fans; the trumpet solo at the end is brilliant and the standing ovation brings a tear to the eye.
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I miised this when it was originally on. I don't know how or why as it screams for watching by anyone that's ever been a gleefully geeky type into the sci-fi/fantasy genres that this often references.
The series is excellent. Nothing lets it down. The characters are well realised, the dialogue is spot on, the humour can be a mix of subtle references, situational funnies, and glorious explosions of banter.
This DVD set is also a winner. Like with the Shain of the Dead/Hot Fuzz DvD's, they show a love of the medium. There's options and options, all wrapped up in evocative UI's. This also has an idle mode that is worth letting run a while too.
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Well, well, well congratulations to the BBC... They have outdone themselves yet again.
What with the lovely voice over, done by the brilliant Bernard Hill (and who wouldn't recognise that), to the beautiful photography, this really is an outstanding series (and not the rubbish that one of the other reviews put it)... So even though I haven't got it on DVD yet, I am seriously thinking if not for me then for my mum for her Xmas stocking, then I could borrow it once in a while...(MAYBE)
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If you are planning to visit Venice I recommend you invest in to this DVD and watch it before you go. This is more a historical guide than a review of the most important land marks.
As it happens Francesco ( an arcitec himself ) was born in venice and knows every corner and every dark secret of the city.
The production values are excellent and Francesco interacts with the past in a very clever way. The actors who play the main characters help to bring the history alive.
The cultural heritage is fascinating but the creation and expansion of the republic even more.
Apart from the history of his own family most the DVD refers to the most important highlights of the city and all you will need is a map to find them. ... Read More:
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We watch four middle aged men enter a down-at-heal office. They take seats around a table. Thay say nothing. One at the end coughs and asks "Shall we begin?" One to the side huffs audibly and then the opening credits rolls.
How brave a start is that? Who would start a major TV serial like that these days? Ive seen "Tinker Tailor..." five times now and look forward to watching it a again. If there was a fire and I could run to save just one DVD this would be the one.
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I absolutely love this show. I think another reviewer said thirtysomethings will enjoy this more and I have to agree. While Life on Mars was brilliant, a lot of the time it did seem to be nothing more than a pastiche of the brilliant Sweeney and Gene Genie nothing more than a piss-take of the legendary Jack Regan. That is not to slag it off LoM was groundbreaking and I adore John Simm and he made Sam Tyler such an empathetic character it was easy to sympathise with Sam's plight.
However (deep breath)...Life on Mars is a different kettle of fish altogether. The first thing that struck me was how cleverly it is filmed. The opening scenes of 2008 Alex tacking the demented Arthur Layton who is responsible for putting her into the `coma' are filmed in rather muted ... Read More:
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The first time I watched season 3 I was a bit dissapointed. But, after watching it for the second time, starting from episode 1 season 1, and seeing every episode back to back, I enjoyed it a lot more.
Without giving anything away, I don't feel it was as absorbing to watch as seasons 1 & 2, but it is still very enjoyable.