joeagnes

"Moscati: Doctor to the Poor" or better known in the original Italian title as "Giuseppe Moscati, L'amore che guarisce" translating to English; "Joseph Moscati, the love that heals". It is a wonderful well directed and filmed two part biographical mini series on the last twenty years of the life of Professor Joseph Moscati. I originally saw this miniseries in Paddingon, London in 2007 just after it was released, enticing me to travel abroad and visit his museum for the second time.

Giuseppe Moscati (born in Benevento Italy on July 25, 1880 and suddenly passed away in Naples on April 12, 1927) was a Professor of Medicine and Surgery, Physician, Scientific researcher, hero and also a pioneer in the field of biochemistry at the University of Naples circa 1903/1905. He also was one of pioneers to use CPR and for considering Insulin treatments for diabetes when his own mother had died from the disease. He came from a noble family that lived in luxury but instead chose to live life with extreme humility and devoted his services and altruism towards the underprivileged, poor families, poverty stricken children and orphans, often contributing from his own finances, eventually selling off most of his assets consisting of family heirloom collectible artwork and very valuable furniture. His home later became a daily refuge to dozens of queuing families, mostly destitute and desperate, seeking medical treatment where he refused payments, but instead also offered his own money for their medications. His philanthropy was also seen amongst the streets carrying large milk containers to the undernourished children living in the city slums. In 1906, during an earth tremor resulting from a small eruption of Mt. Vesuvius, he risked his own life in evacuating many patients from the hospital who were mainly elderly, paralytic and mentally ill, just moments before the building collapsed. This was well portrayed in this wonderful miniseries.

What I also liked about this miniseries is that it reached out to all audiences for general viewing without any strong religious endorsements which would be expected from any biographical movie of a Saint, as Professor Joseph Moscati was also canonized as a Saint by Pope John Paul II in 1987 for his life contributions in addition to the miracles he performed, his endless generosity and human compassion for fulfilling God's love. Whether you believe in Saints or not will not interfere with your appreciation for this miniseries just like appreciating a biography on Ghandi or even Einstein.

This miniseries also displays human nature with the betrayal from a colleague who Moscati had always helped as an undergraduate struggling with his studies right up to offering him a senior position at the hospital, but remained totally indifferent and tolerant towards him right until the very end. Moscati had experienced ridicule and patronizing gestures by this wealthy colleague that later became very successful and achieved high political connections. Some beautiful scenes of Naples and the sea can also be seen with historic scenes from the streets, including inside the princess' palace with great background music that reflect the emotions of the scenes. The museum in Naples also houses many of Moscati's personal belongings and relics, including train tickets used during his travels to London, Paris and Edinburgh which makes this miniseries more impacting on me. If you are ever privileged to visit Naples, then it would be a must for you to visit the museum if you appreciate this miniseries. The old saying that fact can be stranger than fiction is strongly seen here. You won't be disappointed!!

Warning, Spoilers ahead!

'Lo Zappatore'translates from Italian to English to mean 'The Peasant' or more literally correct, 'A farm digger'. I cannot comment on this movie unless I disclose the very essence of what this movie is about. I recall seeing this movie many years ago, as my late mother mentioned to me that it was filmed in her home town in Italy, in the Campania region in the medieval merchant town 'Montesarchio' in the Provence of Benevento. This particular film is somewhat also very special to me as my late mother can also be clearly seen as a 20 year old in the town crowd when it was actually filmed back in 1950. This movie was later remade on a grander scale as a musical, starring the late famous Neapolitan singer Mario Merola, which is known internationally amongst those who have an appreciation for Neapolitan music, which coincidently has also been performed by the greats as Beniamino Gigli, Pavarotti, Andrea Bocelli, Jose Carreras and Russell Watson. My current visit to Montesarchio has enticed me to visit those very same spots where this movie was filmed almost a life time ago, hence I am commenting on this movie in the exact town from Montesarchio itself.

This black and white classic focuses on the life of a poor farmer who strives to make sacrifices by working the fields day and night to financially allow his academically gifted son to study Law and to hopefully escape the poverty cycle of the prewar and postwar depressive periods. Any loving parent wanting the best for their children would strongly relate to this movie. When the son graduates from Law school, he gets the opportunity to work for a high class famous law firm and immediately loses touch with his parents without giving them any contact details. Incidentally, this movie stars Gabriele Ferzetti as the lawyer son who also later starred in the 1969 James Bond movie 'On her majesty's secret service' as Draco. His father is determined to find the whereabouts of his son when his mother is dying and she has a final wish to see her son before she dies. His illiterate father who has never left the town goes to extreme lengths to trace his son by travelling all over the country. On successfully locating the whereabouts of his son, he then discovers that his son is an important figure scheduled as the main guest at a 5 star luxury hotel banquet in one of the major capital cities. His depressed tired worn out father in deteriorated peasant clothes walks in to face his son, much to the shock of all the other guests and hotel staff, telling him that he is not an appropriately invited guest, being out of place to enter. He ignores to take any notice of them and confronts his son taking him by surprise. His son is asked by one of the hosts who the peasant is, but is too embarrassed to acknowledge that it is his father who is the peasant. His father then tells his son that it would have been better that he was also made to be a peasant as no peasant would forget his parents. When his father tells his son that his mother is dying wanting to see her son before she dies, he breaks down and kneels towards his father, again much to the shock of all the guests.

In one of Rudyard Kippling famous works titled 'IF', mentions in one of his lines that; if you could walk with kings and talk to crowds without losing touch of your roots and fellow commoners, you will live to be a man!!

(Some possible spoilers ahead)

My very first recollection of this movie was as a young teenager back in 1982 and although many of the comments made by others vary here, there is a moral to this movie which sends an inspiring message to anyone that has been disadvantaged by a misfortune or disability towards fulfilling an event or an achievement. It brings back many memories especially in high school where we also felt vulnerable as to how our future was going to unfold. Movies and reality rarely coincide, which is why movies will be movies and documentaries will be documentaries.

I will not comment on how good or bad the acting was, or whether there were any goofs in the settings or if the sun was shining while raining etc., as I have yet to see a perfect movie in that respect. What I will say is that without giving too much away here, Lynn Holly Johnson plays the part of Lexie, a hopeful professional figure skater who becomes permanently blind in an accident during skating practice, therefore almost having her whole future destroyed in every respect and with the many hurdles that lie ahead. Her difficult childhood with lack of family support and a deceased mother give her very little hope for a better future. However, her dedication, determination and the power of the human spirit enables her to become an even better skater than she could ever dream to be. Is this possible? Well, whenever I see this movie, it reminds me of many true life examples such as Wilma Rudolph, for instance, who was crippled by Polio at an early age to eventually win 3 titles in the Rome Olympics of 1960. The skating in this movie only serves as a slogan for any other passion or profession where the theme can be equally generalized to any other vocation. Others will also see this as a love story, which is also valid as in reality the relationships of others also plays a key role towards anyone in a real life situation. Their support or lack of also adds to how one progresses in achieving towards their goal. In some ways it can also be similar to the movie "An Officer and a Gentleman" starring Richard Gere where his determination to persevere is not damaged by his superior.

The soundtrack "through the eyes of love" performed by Melissa Manchester is well blended in this movie doing it much justice and makes it a very lovely piece of cinema to watch. Whenever I hear this soundtrack in my car radio it definitely reminds me of this movie and of it's inspirations. A disaster turns into a triumph, reminds us to never undermine the human spirit. (in loving memory of my late mother, Agnesina D'Alessio who was my best inspiration)

Please Sir, I want some MORE?? MOOOOOOOOOORE!!!!!!!!!!! Of all musicals that I have seen to date, this musical in my opinion ranks as the greatest to be ever produced in the history of theater and cinematography. Needless to say that this musical is a superbly excellent adaption of Charles Dicken's lengthy Victorian novel "Oliver Twist". Lionel Bart's "Oliver" could not have been better and perfectly fulfills the main theme of the original novel in delivering to the screen within two hours, whilst keeping the audience entertained and involved at every moment. I just cannot see how this perfect piece of work could have been improved . Having read the original novel by Charles Dickens, I believe that the musical interpretation of Lionel Bart would have made Charles Dickens very proud.

I recall my late mother taking me to the cinema to see "Oliver" back in 1976 when I was ten years old and I was surprised to learn some years later that it was released in 1968, yet still shown on the big screen at the time. The cast selected for the roles were also perfect for the characters portrayed. Mark Lester in the role of Oliver was so angelic and innocent, being a true ambassador for both past and present orphans &/or unfortunate children who could truly see themselves as Oliver. Shani Wallace as Nancy would qualify as anyone's older sister or Guardian angel, who risks her safety and life for Oliver's welfare. Oliver Reed as Bill Sykes and Ron Moody as Fagin are perfect in their roles as rogues. Who could forget Sir Harry Secombe in his role as Mr. Bumble. Jack Wild is the artful Dodger and his facial expressions tell you this immediately. The musical tracks "Consider Yourself", "Food Glorious Food" and "I would do anything for you dear, anything" adds a euphoria to the whole musical. Those beautiful breathtaking Victorian sceneries of London and the meat markets just take you to another world as one imagines in fairly tales.

Although Oliver is an entertaining and merry musical, it delivers a duality of messages. The merriness of the musical is entertaining and enlightening, whilst it simultaneously portrays the misfortunes and sadness of the ordeals experienced by those of lower socio economic backgrounds. In Victorian times orphans and the poor were the most vulnerable and exploited amongst society, especially with the consequences of the industrial revolution. Many orphan children in Victorian times would die before reaching the age of five. I guess that when Charles Dickens first wrote this novel, he was trying to diplomatically protest factual issues disguised in his fictitious novels to raise to the public's attention that what was happening was not right, as he himself had endured poverty in his earlier life. Oliver is born an orphan and exploited in the workhouses, only to be discovered by accident at a later date that he is related to a noble important person. The message is "do not take advantage of anyone as that anyone could be someone very dear to you". Most importantly, we should never take advantage of anybody regardless of who they are!!! Therefore, there are powerful and impacting morals to this masterpiece, just as with Dicken's other superb novel "Great Expectations". The theme behind Oliver, is still the same today with how underprivileged children and the underclass are still suffering and exploited in modern times, at no fault of their own. This musical is timeless and I always get a tear to my eye every time I watch it, as it brings back so many of my fond childhood memories and that is every time it is screened on television. Thankfully it has a happy ending. (In loving memory of my precious late mother "Agnesina D'Alessio, March 21,1929 - July 12, 2006, who had a special love for all children")

Whenever I hear or see anything to do with Perry Como, my memories somehow always flash back to my childhood and his beautiful Christmas shows from the early 1970's, allowing me to somehow relive my childhood innocence. I vividly recall those old times when on Christmas day, these shows would always be televised and somehow they would also help create memories of precious quality time once shared with close family and friends.

Sadly, these type of family viewing shows have become extinct, due to changing fads and deteriorating family values, becoming far too common in the modern world. I may have been 11 or 12 when I recall this particular special being televised and somehow I do get teary when I reflect on times once shared with those who are now no longer with us.

I won't single out this particular special from all the other Perry Como shows as they were all exceptionally good, however, this one had an English feel to it. I recall Petula Clark or any of his guests were ever so perfect for the atmosphere of the show

Perry Como had a certain brilliance about him and was always very modest in his typical cardigan outfit,with a welcoming feeling to the audience, always smiling and allowing them to feel part of his show as opposed to being just spectators.

Twenty seven years later, Christmas is again some three weeks away and although I am privileged to be part of it, I do feel so much emptiness, which somehow not only deprives me of sharing it with those dearly departed family and friends, but I am certain that the television stations will not be showing anything like those old Perry Como Christmas specials.

At first, I wasn't going to comment, especially after having read what the majority of others have already expressed on this unique wonderful masterpiece from the mid 1960's. Although the comments are worded differently, we all seem to agree that it is a great piece of cinema. The English translation of "Un homme et une femme" is "A man and a Woman"

O.K, I have a fetish for 1960's memorabilia, ranging from the music, films, cars, fashion, the elegance of the era and just about anything that springs to mind. Therefore, I will always see beyond just a love story here, as I am not really blown away by love stories anyway. If I wasn't already familiar with the main theme soundtrack, (having recalled hearing it on radio as a very young boy) and the older model cars, it would be almost impossible to guess that it was actually filmed in 1966. The clarity of this picture is near perfect. The music behind this movie is also superlative and compliments the excellent cinematography impeccably. I am certain that without this soundtrack the film would not be as impacting, which I have not noticed from other comments. If I wanted to make this movie myself, I would have also added the Stan Getz & Astrid Gilberto tune "The girl from Ipanema" as it would have fitted perfectly in this movie, especially with the scene at the beach. Needless to say, this film is timeless.

The blend of B&W with the colour filming really adds the finishing touches. This movie is also very elegant, stylish, romantic and above all realistic, as it does not end like most other mainstream romance movies. However, it leaves plenty of room for hope.

With this film, the viewer may seem to feel as though it is going nowhere, but it uniquely captures your attention, as you seem to sense as if you are acting a part in this film yourself. It does have a very welcoming affect and we can all somehow relate to it in one way or another. Perhaps it is the reality of how it unfolds which is more real life than fiction.

The rally cars, the snow, scenes from the city of Paris, the beautiful orange/red sky at the beach, the cafés, romance and the serenity of a healthy family union is my definition of happiness

The title of this film "Luce dei miei occhi" translates from Italian to English to mean "Through the light of my eyes" and how appropriate. This is one of the most realistic movies that reflects the true nature of how cruel and one sided some relationships and liaisons can be. Most movies of this genre are so predictable and to some extent,- extremely unrealistic, simply because men are always portrayed as the selfish cold hearted instigator to jeopardize relationships. What makes this movie more unique is that there is no third party to cause rivalry for this woman's affection.

Without giving too much away, we have here a lonely taxi driver who is a true gentleman with honourable intentions, that falls for a single mother (of a young daughter) who remains coldly indifferent to his love and commendable contributions. She runs a frozen food store and he eventually learns that she is heavily in debt to some loan shark, so he decides to help with payments without her knowledge. He goes to extreme lengths to help her by also striking some deal in chauffeuring her creditor. In the movie, he narrates his experiences by modeling similarities to the themes of non related events in some Science fiction novels,which are his other passion and that he feels like an alien from another planet without any sense of belonging.

Although she is not at fault for her lack of affection towards him, this movie can be extrapolated further, because it does not have to be just the lack of appreciation from a woman towards a man's love, but the lack of appreciation from any other person, purely due to a missing charm. I am not one to be blown away by love stories, however, there is a moral to this movie that generalizes beyond a conjugal relationship, which affects us all in one way or another, even if it may be just between siblings. This demonstrates that it is not what you do for another to be appreciated, but whether they like you or not. Many of us can relate to this fact whether it is for affection from a partner, appreciation for contributions towards the workplace that go beyond the call of duty, countless efforts towards a friendship or even time towards a charitable cause. It is not what you do for a cause, but whether the recipient likes you or not.

Backdraft displays Ron Howard's typical brilliance in addition to his other two favourites of mine, being 'Apollo 13" and " A beautiful mind".

I will not elaborate on the story line of this movie as other contributors have already done well in giving the hint of what it is about. Backdraft displays the typical dysfunctionalities that exist amongst siblings, but also reminds us that in the event of desperate situations, blood will always be thicker than water.

The McCaffrey brothers (performed by William Baldwin and Kurt Russell) are both firefighters who do not see eye to eye. Yet, many events in this movie remind us that life is too short to keep grudges, argue over what we cannot change and to learn to show tolerance. The two brothers are always at each other during their line of work, but there comes a time when caught in a life threatening situation, Kurt Russell swallows his pride acknowledging his brother's heroic act in shouting "That is my brother there".

I must say that the contribution of the LIFE magazine in the story line is very impacting and I find it essential. Thinking about it, this movie is about the every day struggles of life. We have all picked up a LIFE magazine at some time in our lives and if you are lucky to have one from the 1960's, you will notice that it is no ordinary magazine, which really impacts life (where the title of the magazine suits it perfectly). The young boy on the cover of the magazine with the fireman's hat begs to be heard and seen, almost to the point of asking you " I have something to tell you, please listen to my LIFE story"

Although the storyline is based upon firefighters, it equally extrapolates to any other hazardous occupation, as it also displays a reminder of how many unsung heroes risk their lives for the benefit of mankind. During a penultimate scene one of the McCaffrey brothers dies in the line of duty and a very moving scene is well performed at the state funeral. This movie would have equally worked well if the roles of firefighters would have been substituted by paramedics (or any emergency rescue team) or even any employees exposed to a hazardous environment. It serves as a good reminder of what we often take for granted.

Yes, the movie does seem have other complexities which could be debated as to whether they should have been part of this movie, but life itself is complex. I also liked the closing scene where life goes on as the surviving McCaffrey brother returns to his every day work and a small subtitle is displayed to remind us of how many firefighters continue to risk their lives in the line of duty. A beautiful piece of work

"Quer pasticciaccio brutto de via Merulana" in Italian translates to "That awful mess on Merulana Avenue". I recall seeing this wonderful mini series back in 1987 and have never been privileged to see another repeat ever, or anywhere else in the world for that matter. I enjoyed it very much as it is based in Rome during the early 1920's, centered on a homicide that occurred in an apartment on Via Merulana (Merulana Avenue) which is actually a real location in Rome, having later recalled much to my surprise taking a detour down there back in 1991. I believe it is based upon Carlo Emilio Gadda's novel "That Awful Mess on Via Merulana".

Detective Ingravallo (superbly performed by Flavio Bucci in this mini series) is a tall thin philosophical sweet talker, resembling more of a Shemp character in appearance, especially with his big protruding eyes and straight jet black hair filled with hair gel, neatly combed from his forehead right over his crown, but yet he is very elegant. He is shrewd and cunning, stopping at nothing to achieve his objectives. He analysis his investigations much like a poet rehearsing his work or a tutor instructing his student.

He has a crush on Liliana Balducci (performed by Scilla Gabel) who happens to be everything that he desires in a woman, having it all, both in her angelic character and physical beauty, but sadly for him ( and for any other serious hopeful single man) is married. He maintains his moral etiquette and moves on with his duties.

The mess ( which is probably why it is in the main title) all begins when Ms. Balducci is found murdered in her apartment, lying on the ground in a manner which shows her petticoat in an almost indecent way ( well for the 1920's standards anyway) and he is distressed both professionally and personally to obsessively solve this case at all costs. He shows his respect at the scene of the crime, when he bends over and straightens her dress to cover her petticoat and knees. The mess is made more complicated as there is some confusion between links to another crime being a burglary at Contessa Meneghazzi's apartment. There is also a series of misleading clues which almost puts the detective Ingravallo to a similar rank as the Italian version of Sherlock Holmes. It keeps the viewer guessing and very much invites you to play your role in help solving both crimes.

There is a beautiful scenery of Rome from the window of Ingravallo's apartment with an art deco touch of the 1920's when the inspector pours water from a porcelain vase into the bedroom basin, while he is preparing to wash his hands, similar to a scene from "Great Expectations" when the lawyer washes his hands in the wash basin.

I recommend it to those that like detective stories and in particular keeps you guessing with your mind open right up to the very end.

I recall a time, even as a young child in the early to mid 1970's that we would all set Friday evening aside at 8.30 PM to watch "The Benny Hill show". Wherever we went, whether it was going to the supermarket, on the bus, or even in the shopping mall, you could hear someone make a comment relating to the previous Benny Hill episode. I would see people approach each other with a smile and ask " Did you watch the Benny Hill show last Friday? Wasn't it great?". I had never ever had this experience with any other comedy series or event since. What was even more surprising was that the I heard far more praises from women of all ages than I ever did from men. SURPRISE, SURPRISE, I was shocked with disbelief so many years later to learn from the media that the show was sexist and was not politically correct?? Are we speaking about the same show?????? Hmmmmmm!!!!! How could he have been sexist if the joke ended up on him or any character he performed?? Every bald elderly short man should then be offended by his slapping on the head of his side kick. I never heard this being mentioned in the media. I am confused???? I repeat, my parents who were very strict with what we watched on television, allowed us to watch this show when we were children. I would have probably done the same with my children.



Benny Hill was not only a comedian, but a great artist, music composer and very talented in a broad spectrum with his artistic skills. He could imitate just about everyone with sarcasm and humour. He made the world laugh!!!!!! There is so much depression lately, that I have never ever seen anyone come as close in making me laugh as Benny Hill did. Sure, British comedy and British pop groups are very much like high class end Swiss watches, but Benny Hill stood out in comedy. He was once labeled here as "Clown Imperial". I also noticed that he was also very popular in Italy when I was there some twelve years ago.

I cannot comment on every episode that I recall seeing, as it would be impossible for me to do so within the thousand word limit. Yet, the episodes that still come to my mind some 25 years later, included when he imitated other television characters such as Kojak, Mr. T from the A team, the disco dancer, The china man and the opposite gender with his different wigs and hair styles. I also enjoyed his soccer games where he was the goal keeper and he would sarcastically save goals in the funniest ways. I also enjoyed the comedy in his lyrics when he sang tunes. I could still recall him playing the harp in one episode where he ends his tune by plucking the wrong note and grins. His fast forwarded sketches were also very funny especially with the ambulance officers. I did enjoy different scenes a lot more than others as I did not find the character Mr. Scuttle very funny, as this could have been improved.

One could say that some episodes had a touch of sleaziness, but why would they be any different from the standards exhibited in modern television which has lots of sleazy themes, swearing, sex scenes and nudity? If one would be open minded and fair, I believe that "The Benny Hill show" rated very politically correct when compared to the majority of modern television of today, whether comedy or otherwise. I have not been able to get videos or DVD's of any of these Benny Hill shows, but am so sorry for those that did not get to judge this artist for themselves. If laughter could cure diseases, then this show could cure everything, as I have never had a great laugh ever since, as it takes a lot to make me laugh. May he rest in peace.

I recall back in the early 1970's when this show was screened late at night, we all waited anxiously to watch. This was a police drama set in a Australian country town called "Matlock" and had a blend of great Australian artists, which was the rural analogy of the other great Australian classic police drama series "Homicide" in terms of quality. These two television series would have to be amongst Australia's best television series ever presented. Even by today's standards these two series would rank very highly, when compared to the blandness that most modern television series offer. These two series displayed what great results could be achieved with a limited budget and a well planned goal.

Artists such as Michael Pate (who also starred in earlier American movies), Grigor Taylor and Paul Cronin (later recognised in another Australian classic series " The Sullivans") displayed a great performance in their collaboration as police officers. Grigor Taylor would always remind me of the Australian David McCallum. I am very surprised that he did not progress to become a more popular icon of Australian television, or abroad. He was one of my favourite Australian artists, without overlooking any of the others. I enjoyed all the episodes that I was fortunate to watch as they were simple, straight forward and exciting. What I found unique about this police drama was that at the end of the episodes, when the criminals were caught, you could hear an audio narrated conclusion of their fates and their convictions, which I have never seen in any other police drama to my knowledge. The musical score was also great and like that of "Homicide", it alone enticed you to want to watch. Sadly, I only saw one repeat of this series and enjoyed it as much as I did the first time. Australian television series at it's very best

**Warning- may contain a possible spoiler**

When I first saw this movie, my initial impression was that it was a brilliant production from either the early or mid 1970's. When I discovered that it was released in 1965, I developed an enormous respect for it and have always made time to enjoy repeats (being of exceptional quality for it's time, as it has still preserved most of it's essence today). It is the best of the Harry Palmer espionage series, which is on the same wavelength as "Funeral in Berlin" which was nowhere near as good in my humble opinion. I found it to be one of the best and most under rated espionage films of all time. Michael Caine plays the role of the British intelligence agent Harry Palmer and brilliantly delivers a reality to this film in ways that most other movies of similar nature fail. In contrast to other fictitious characters from other espionage movies and novels, where the main characters all seem to be very one dimensional, Palmer appears more like a real person. Apart from his skills as an intelligence officer, he also has a personal character which is rarely exhibited by the main characters of other espionage films. He shows his personality in his passion for cooking ( being fussy when in the supermarket while looking at canned button mushrooms) and music when he puts on a record of Mozart when preparing dinner in the presence of a lady guest. The movie begins with the scene during the music score, when he gets up to prepare his coffee by grinding fresh coffee beans to place in his plunger while preparing to get to work.

He has an enormous amount of patience with his colleagues at work as he endures all kinds of ordeals to get through with his mission in style. He never complains and shows his modesty by never answering back, when ridiculed by insults from his colleagues. As a high quality British intelligence agent, he soon suspects that he is confronted by a double agent and selects wisely when put in a difficult position. I highly recommend this movie to anyone that can see beyond the entertainment side of this movie. It has all the ingredients of the espionage thriller that would satisfy those who seek something outside the square.

This 1968 production has a great blend of cast and the outline of the film is well described in the comments of bampton. where Scobie Malone, an Australian outback detective Sargent is summoned by the Premier of New South Wales to go to London and safely escort an Australian diplomat(Christopher Plummer) back to Australia. Scobie(played by Rod Taylor) is annoyed to go to Sydney (the capital city of the state of New South Wales) after having just returned from there. This scene of when he is summoned also shows a unique and beautiful background of outback Australia at that time.

Rod Taylor plays the part of a rugged bushman exceptionally well, as he is outspoken, grumpy and speaks his mind without too much concern as to who may be present. I even like his Australian accent as it stands out at the London banquet amongst the upper class English gentlemen in their tuxedo, who pay more attention to their etiquette as they are tensely worried by his unpredictable outbursts of free speech. In contrast to his role in Time Machine" where he is much more docile and well spoken. This is what I believe makes a good actor, especially with the extreme diverse roles that they can perform and I believe that Rod Taylor performs brilliantly.

There is also a scenery of a tennis match at Wimbledon between an Australian and an Englishman where Scobie boasts to them that Australia is in front. Yet, Scobie also shows his Australian charm as he is a real softy at heart and his bark is louder than his bite, but is also an outstanding policeman where he surprises all those that underestimate his police skills purely by judging a book by it's cover.

Without giving too much away, I do recommend this movie and should be judged fairly as it is a late 1960's production and should not be compared to modern cinema. I do enjoy repeats of it as it seems to be more inspiring . A brilliant blend of cast which also include Leo McKern, Lilli Palmer and Charles Bud Tingwell. Worth watching!!!!

This was one of my very first recollections of an Australian television series. It was a police drama involving elegant dressed detectives, stationed in the city headquarters,investigating serious crimes (mainly murders), which is probably where it gets the name "HOMICIDE". The first pilot to the series was debut before I was born back in 1964, hence I cannot comment on what I haven't seen. I recall later episodes and when I heard the opening score (being a well composed classic) at a much later age, it rang a bell to when I was probably four or five years old. Firstly, it was made on a shoe string budget and I later discovered that most of the actors also played their own stunts. It has a blend of great Australian actors and most of them would later be noticed on other Australian television.

What made this television series special in my humble opinion, is recalling that most of the episodes that I saw were all urban based, being something very very rare for Australian television, as most of Australian television is always based on the outback, unfairly giving an international image of Australians as only rural in nature (hoping not to offend anyone here). This is one feature of Australian television that really annoys me, and the portraying of a one sided image of Australian life does not do Australian culture much justice, especially, ignoring the fact that there are also skyscrapers and densely populated cities. The series "HOMICIDE" did try to fill in this Australian picture. By the same token, anyone who enjoyed this series would also enjoy the rural counterpart "MATLOCK POLICE", being in my humble opinion the rural equivalent of 'HOMICIDE" - and also amongst Australia's very best television. This would have to be amongst Australia's earliest and sadly the very best of Australian television series.

I recall seeing this Television series in Australia during November 1981 when I was 15 and have never ever been privileged to see a repeat. This series was one of the best of it's kind that I have ever seen to date. I do not know what is happening to excellent quality television shows and movies that are not only difficult to find on video, but are not even shown as repeats on television?? I experienced a similar problem with trying to find the movie "Duffy, starring James Coburn". Whenever I tried to research this series, I could never find anything on it, until I checked out this internet movie database with much relief. I do recall the brilliant performances of William Devane (also from the television series Knots Landing), but one that really attracted my attention was seeing Don Johnson for the very first time. I recall the television station highlighting a reminder of what was to be televised and when a brief scene with Don Johnson was shown, my 13 year old kid brother was with me in the room and called out "Is that James Dean?" I was also fooled for a moment. I thought that such a brilliant performance and blend of artists would have warranted this show to be the most talked about series for it's era. I saw both the original and this series, but must say that I enjoyed this one much more. Anyone that is privileged to have videotaped it and has it forgotten somewhere in the attic, is sitting on some television masterpiece.

I believe that it may have been either in 1989 or 1990 during my stay in Italy, when I first saw this television mini series. I guess that it is an interpretation of Edmondo De Amicis' late 19th century immortal classic novel 'Cuore' (translated as 'Heart' from the Italian noun). As I am aware, the novel is also part of the Italian junior school language and literature learning program, and I have heard nothing but praise from all those that have read this novel. Therefore, I cannot really comment about the comparisons of how the novel ties with the mini series, but if the novel is as good as the mini series, then from what I have seen, it would class as a masterpiece.. I have never found an English translation of this novel, but nevertheless, the mini series is a superlative display of traditional values and morals which would be the dream of any parent having young children at school.

I was moved by the ethos that this mini series portrays, as it is centered around the memoirs of some soldiers at war, who reminisce on their memorable primary school days of when they were boys. These flashbacks make up the majority of this mini series. The morals in this mini series are exceptional and also shows how much has changed in the primary school system in the last hundred years. The school teacher Perboni plays the part of an ideal Victorian school teacher with excellent paternal instincts, having a genuine interest in all his pupils as if they were his own children.. Although all the young boys have their own unique and interactive character, two that stood out in my mind were Garrone (the gentle giant, being the tallest and stockiest of the pupils) and Franti (the rebellious little brat, but a good child at heart).

The scenes are focused on the normal interactions in a classroom of pupils from all different walks of life. Muratorino (Brickie) is nicknamed after his father who is a bricklayer by trade. In one episode, the school master practices his social morals well, when he is asked about an inkwell that was carved with a nail by a pupil's father who was serving time in jail while his son was a pupil at that school. At the end of the day, Perboni gathers his pupils together for the viewing of a silent movie that is meant to be educational and entertaining while displaying traditional values.. The pupils are then touched by the theme of the movie and relate it to what they have learnt during their school day, with the exception of Franti who ridicules all his class mates with a grin while they are in tears from emotion. In a later episode, another silent movie is shown to the pupils and this movie ends with a scene where a young boy loses his leg after having saved an army of soldiers from being gunned by the enemy. All the pupils are touched and again reduced to tears while we again expect to see Franti grin, BUT, surprise surprise, he is also moved to tears.

Although a school environment full of compassionate and understanding seems far fetched, the plot and theme can be appreciated in a realistic sense, as not all children were fortunate enough to have had the experience of a school environment at the end of the Victorian era. Hence, even at an early age, children would have felt privileged, therefore taking school much more seriously than they would have many decades later, simply to avoid the poverty of their forefathers. I highly recommend this to anyone that wants to reminisce on their earliest childhood and it always brings out the inner child from within us all.

***SPOILERS*** ***SPOILERS*** ***SPOILERS*** I recall back many years ago, when switching on the television, I only intended to watch the first 10 minutes of this movie, simply because I was only attracted to Jim Croce's beautiful tune `time in a bottle'. Initially I continued to watch half hearted only with the hope of hearing more nice tunes, as I had mistaken it for some silly puppy love story. My judgment could not have been any worse!!!!!!!!. The movie grew up on me and it has became one of my all time favourites. It is touching, emotional and an absolute must for all those that have been affected with an illness or having a loved one with an illness. I am not the one to cry when watching movies, but this movie came pretty close.

It is a unique film as it shows the continual love, determination and commitment between a young man and a young woman to beat the odds when she is diagnosed with cancer. At first there is naturally disbelief, followed by devastation which would be the case for all those unfortunate enough to be given such a sentence. There is also misinterpretation amongst neighbours who are quick to judge in believing that she has had a drug overdose instead, as one's thought of seeing a young and healthy person to be diagnosed with cancer are almost unimaginable, even though it happens .

Their continual quest and determination to fight and further investigate, brings out the superhuman in all of those battling whatever disease they are confronted with. I do believe that all these ingredients are well portrayed in this movie, as Desi Arnaz Jr. and Season Hubley superbly collaborate together in delivering a very fine convincing performance . I do not want to give too much away as it will defeat the purpose of receiving that first impact which comes from having watched this movie for the very first time. Jim Croce's tune ` time in a bottle ` is superbly blended in the scene where Dezi Arnez Jr is riding his bike down the street to face the many hurdles that lie ahead. The lyrics to this wonderful tune are very powerful as they dwell on a wish of saving time in a bottle, where he would save every day until eternity ends, so that he could then spend that saved time with who he loves. We all relate to this with our loved ones. In fact, the tune captures it all and I just cannot see how it could have been as impacting without it. The beauty of this movie is that the theme can be generalized to be equally valid between the love of a parent and child, siblings, between that of a spouse and partner or between any relationship. It does not discriminate it's essence.

Thankfully, this movie does have a happy ending where she is finally in remission and it ends with the paradox on hearing their pathology results - `results are negative, so that means that it is positive'. I highly recommend it!!!!!!!!!!.

This movie should not be mistaken as a budget imitation of a James Bond film, as it possesses it's own distinctive characteristics. Yet, for it's time (1969) it is just as adventurous and entertaining with Richard Johnson performing the role of (Bulldog) Hugh Drummond, similar to your James Bond Secret agent, but with a touch of humour and to some extent, a bit of sarcasm. Like Bond, Drummond is well skilled, serious and intelligent and is out to investigate what is behind a series of murders disguised as accidents, that are carried out by what appears to be beautiful young women (hence it's title Some Girls Do). Robert Morley performs the part of Miss Mary and is later found dead after having given classes to potential chef students in perfecting the art of cracking eggs open into a bowl.

Drummond is also targeted when flying a glider and is meant to crash down when his parachute has been tampered with by the beautiful robotic women who watch from below, but manages to skillfully and successfully release open the parachute, landing down safely as if nothing had happened.. A fine performance by Sydney Rome as the typical James Bond type girl, but Drummond is not at all fooled by her pampering and charming behaviour, as he is very intelligent in sensing her motives.. She does play the bimbo but is very cunning, as most Bond style girls are.

In a nutshell I did enjoy this movie and am not surprised that any criticisms are really more to do with it's comparisons to modern released movies. However, I am very surprised that the character of Bulldog Drummond was not pursued in later years like with remakes of `A Thomas Crown Affair', `The Avengers', `The Saint' etc. I believe that the character of `Bulldog' Drummond could have been further modernized and made into a big hit in the late 1970's upto the 1990's with newer adventures, as it had all the charm and character of serving action/adventure style movies, but on a larger scale. I would have kept one foot in the 1960's and another one in the 1990's keeping that style in an evergreen sense.

Warning; may give away the whole story to the movie

Anyone that has been unfortunate to have an ill member of the family or a loved one with some medical setback would totally relate to this movie. It allows those that have never been affected in such a way, access to really know what it is like to be either a caregiver, a loved one or even as a very close friend of someone with special needs. I do not recall seeing any other movie with a similar theme with the exception of those with similar emotions in `She lives' starring Dezi Arnez. and `Death not be proud'.

Tom Cruise and Dustin Hoffman both collaborate in a unique and brilliant performance,the roles of two siblings where the youngest (Charlie Babbit, performed by Tom Cruise) discovers after the death of his only surviving parent, his father, the existence of his Autistic older brother (Raymond Babbit, performed by Dustin Hoffman) that has been institutionalised most of his life. Initially, Charlie is shattered beyond disbelief that his Autistic brother inherits a very large amount from his father's death, as money is meant to have no meaning to an Autistic person. Charlie's initial motive in meeting his Autistic brother is only of monetary interest, but on getting to later know his older brother better, develops an incredible fraternal bond, where money is no longer the reason for his interest towards his brother.

Charlie manages to spend time getting to know his older brother and they travel together across the country when his autistic brother refuses to board a plane to fly as he is in fear of crashing down. He only wants to travel on a Quantas plane as it has never had a history of crashing, which is impractical for them to go to Australia just to board a plane to travel on their side of the country.

Charlie plays the role of a caregiver superbly. He brilliantly highlights the immeasurable pains and frustrations that are associated with caregiving in a way that would make most caregivers feel recognized. He displays the enormous patience with near breaking point behaviour to assist in the best way he can as most caregivers do, as it is sudden and without any formal training. It shows the love, commitment and devotion of what it is like to care for someone for 24 hours, even if for only a day. Dustin Hoffman also compliments the role of an Autistic person brilliantly and I just cannot see how it could have been better.

Charlie's biggest surprise is when he discovers his brother's unique Autism skills of high level number crunching and the ability of memorizing a whole phone directory with the names and phone numbers, after reading the name tag of a waitress in a cafe'. He is later further dazzled with the card counting skills which they then go to Casinos and win big from his brother's autistic skills, but nobody notices why. They are thrown out of the casino being falsely accused of having inside information instead. A beautiful scene of financial sacrifice that is often also associated with caregivers, is when he takes off his Gold Rolex watch to the pawnbroker when he is short on cash flow prior to going into the Casino.

The last scene is when Charlie is fighting with the authorities over custody of his Autistic brother and the role of 'blood being thicker then water' is displayed beyond words. After having finished arguing with them, he is alone with his autistic brother and kisses him on the forehead, displaying an emotional and memorable scene which ties families in a unique and special way. His initial monetary interests are transformed into the love and compassion that go beyond his original expectations. This movie is a great ambassador to caregivers and for family love. I highly recommend it as you will not be disappointed

I was deeply touched by this movie as it has an enchanting affect on me that I have difficulties expressing in words. Lets recall that the real Titanic was not found until some six or seven years after this movie was released. Back then it would have been difficult to display what the Titanic would have really looked like even when bearing in mind that it had been in it's watery grave for some sixty years. What the Titanic would have looked like is really missing the point behind the novel and the movie. This movie is an adaptation of Cussler's novel however, my impression behind the idea of raising the Titanic acts as a slogan to the theme, even though it serves the whole plot very well.. The Titanic is enormous and so is the mission behind achieving the aimed target. The theme and agenda would be closely relate to the incredible difficulties and desperation associated with trying to achieve a goal or a discovery that takes those persevering to new horizons with the pressures from competition that resulted from the cold war. This, however can be impressing as it would be an absolute adventure in reality to actually raise the Titanic, if only it were not so fragile and still in one piece on the ocean floor.

While there are those that are totally untouched by this, wanting to get to the Titanic first represents the typical effects from the cold war, no different from the space race of the 1960's as to who was going to be the first to land man on the moon. It is far easier by today's standards to see a movie such as this one with a critical eye, because these types of movies are less attracting to newer generations, resulting from the cold war no longer being the main headline in today's media. This is sad in a way, as it does not give these movies their deserved recognition.

The colour and filming make this movie even more special as it has a sort of foggy but clear setting. The risen Titanic is not badly represented either when compared to what it really looked like below the sea when it was actually discovered. I also enjoyed the soundtrack and score to it giving it that extra edge. You really have to be open minded to appreciate this movie and being an 1980 release would make it of excellent quality.

H.G. Welles, Victorian Science fiction novel ' Time Machine' is in my humble opinion one of the greatest science fiction novels ever written, especially when reflecting on the idea of time travel and that it was written in the late period of the 19th Century. What makes the novel more exciting to me is knowing that it was written in 1895, years before the publication of Einstien's four dimensional space time phenomena. This makes me wonder how the public initially reacted to it, considering the chronology of these ideas.

It would have to be a director's nightmare to create a movie adapted purely from a Novel while preserving as much of the contents as possible with approximately a couple of hours to display it's results. 'The Time machine' proved to be a great challenge and although it does not match the novel from head to toe, it would have to be one of the greatest attempts for any director and producer to deliver what I consider to be a great classic for it's time. Although this movie is dated 1960, to some fairness, one would really call it a late fifties classic. The filming, props and the technology brilliantly displays it all for this period of the end of the 1950's, beginning 1960.

Rod Taylor is a great choice in performing inventor 'George' as he is docile, patient and determined to show to the world that he has invented a time machine which can take you backwards and forwards in time as far as you desire. He displays his prototype idea to his colleagues on new year's eve of the new century 1900. This is a science fiction movie that can attract more than most other science fiction ideas as it is based upon a simple idea of time travel, which must have crossed the curiosity of most of us, in one form or another (being another great dream for those that would like to either turn back the clock or those that wish to visit the future). This movie attempts to display this idea as best as possible. Once again, lets not forget that it is filmed in 1960 and for this particular era, I cannot see it with a critical eye. It then focuses on traveling to some 802000 years into the future where the world is a near like tropical paradise with primitive society consisting of the fragile and the cannibal Morlocks . The Morlocks from the original novel are represented differently which are more as ape like creatures. Yet the idea is trying to address the audience without losing the meaning of it's impact. My favourite scene was when the Morlocks chase to attack George while attempting to escape in his time machine. One of the Morlocks is trapped between past and future and is then transformed into a skeletal corpse while sitting on the edge of the machine. George returns from the future deluded and disappointed with what lies ahead. This was well directed and filmed, giving that extra touch to the movie.

Time travel would certainly be able to make amends to any past that we prefer to eradicate and hence change history. We may even be able to relive times with those presently deceased and hence there would be no history as we could adjust it to our pleasing. It however says nothing about fate!!. This movie does not highlight these ideas, but keeps the excitement well intact. It is one of those few Science fiction movies which can be well accepted and appreciated, even if you are not into Science fiction. I would recommend it for the viewer to draw their own conclusions as I have enjoyed repeats with more interest.

may contain a minor spoiler.

I recall seeing this musical mini series back in 1994 and I definitely would love to see a repeat of it, but from a different point of view. It has a brilliant cast and is well directed with a musical rock'n roll number every now and then. It is set around the lives of those that were involved in the Suez crisis in the 1950's at Whitehall and in someways is similar to the theme of the other British series "YES MINISTER".

It's main attention is on the private lives of some of the military private officers and a young attractive Sylvia (performed by Louise Germaine), wife of Cpl. Pete Berry (performed by Douglas Henshall), giving that Diana Dors impression which is well blended with the whole theme of the series and era. She is not very faithful towards her husband while he is away on duty, which gets the land lady downstairs very irate every time she sits down to have a cup of tea, as she will blast at anyone who knocks on the door requesting for Sylvia, even if it is official. It has moments of satire, comedy and drama all in one. As for the spoiler, if it wasn't for some sleazy themes, I would have recommended it as a whole family viewing which is a pity, as it is well choreographed, performed and presented.

One of my favourite was the Welsh nerd (Private Francis, well performed by Giles Thomas) giving the impression of a stooge,from his socially inept and typical vulnerability that follows. My other favourite is the old Wurlitzer organ player who is one of Sylvia's regulars, who ends up in hospital when he accidentaly runs over and kills her husband with his car while tailing her and not being too attentive on the road.

As I mentioned earlier, there are a few nice rock'n roll tunes and a nice tune by Hank Williams at the end when they attend the funeral of Sylvia's husband. During the funeral, Private Francis even falls in her husband's grave as he is daydreaming about the mortality sea. Many comedy performances but it is a great show, highly recommended for adults. You will not be disappointed if you can overlook the sleaze themes.

"Morte di un matematico napoletano" translates to English - "Death of a Neapolitan Mathematician". This film serves as a reminder that a mental illness can strike anybody, regardless of social status or intellect. Also, if you do not have an appreciation for the field of Science or Mathematics, then this movie is definitely not for you. This movie in some way is analogous to the the recent cinema masterpiece "A beautiful mind" which is not only fulfilling but educational in the sense that it allows the normal public to appreciate that because someone is a genius, does not preclude them from being vulnerable, whether it is emotionally or socially, even if they are an elite member of society. Yes, Elite!!!!!. In general, mathematicians have not been given that same deserved homage as given to all other important academics, being a far outcry when compared to that given to high profile sports personalities. They are quiet achievers and often the most lateral thinkers of any breed of academics (without overlooking other professions with this comment), while they remain very modest. Yet every other science uses mathematics as a tool in one form or another, not forgetting computer science. Adding insult to injury, there is no Nobel prize awarded in Mathematics either, so any mathematician that has received recognition for such a prize has received it under another category such as in the field of economics or perhaps physics, in showing relevance to those areas.

This movie can be disappointing purely because it gives the audience the impression of being fictitious, which is definitely not the case. Although some of the scenes may have been improvised to add flavour to it's screen display. It is actually based upon the real life of the genius Neapolitan mathematician - Renato Caccioppoli who sadly committed suicide in 1959 (brilliantly performed by Carlo Cecchi). It is not a movie which can be taken lightly, otherwise you will easily miss the point. You really have to follow it carefully and it helps to know something about the academic works and life of this great charming genius of the 20th century to appreciate it's full effect. I notice that the movie does not strongly stress the biographical features of Renato Caccioppoli such as the influences he experienced with Ernesto Pascal and that of Mario Picone. I do not recall any mentioning of his works to at least identify the character for his important published works such as on integration (area of mathematics). There was so much in the life of this genius which was not highlighted by this movie, which could have made it of superlative quality. But in all fairness, I guess that the essence of the movie was not so much on his life but on a man suffering in silence where others in similar predicaments can relate to. This was emphasized more towards the later part of his life where he had become very isolated, depressed and turned to drinking, as he did not fit in and lacked the compassion and understanding of those around him.

This movie can in itself be a thriller in judgment as the agenda is very grey, hence very open to interpretation. I strongly believe that the brilliance of director Mario Martone purposely planned it this way, while simultaneously trying to deliver to the general public and beg the audience to see another side of a genius who was also a victim (like Vincent Van Gogh, Ernst Hemingway, Alan Turing and Ettore Majorana)while striving for their sanity. The mind of a genius can be a lonely battler where they live in a world that often tries to unintentionally empathise them the wrong way.

I have been a Roger Moore and Sean Connery fan ever since I was a child. I enjoyed both artists perform the roles of James Bond. I never get tired of seeing their performances in repeats of their movies. However, when I purchased my first James Bond movie it had to be OHMSS.

What makes this movie stand out? If a picture says a thousand words, a movie can definitely speak forever. It is one of those movies that does not go overboard to the same extent of those marvel comics portraying super heroes. Those that have read most of Ian Flemmings novels, will understand what I mean.

OHMSS has a blend of everything and it also brings out the human side of James Bond, where I believe George Lazenby did this well. Here James Bond relies very little on his accessories and more on his intelligent skills as a secret agent, as opposed to how most of the gadgetry spies are later portrayed in modern cinema. When he is discovered to be James Bond by Blofeld, all he has is his beautiful silver dialed Rolex Chronograph and his trouser pockets to his rescue with no fancy instruments to rescue him. If one wants to see Mr. Gadget with all his fancy gadgetry, then it would do more justice to watch animation.

The scenes in Switzerland with the Christmas song during the ice skating ring is an absolute must in this movie and is a platform to the car chase which leads Bond and Tracy to the barn where they hide and chat about a holiday in Via Veneto Rome. The skiing scenes are also well blended in the movie and adds more reality to it. Notice there are no cellular phones back in 1969 and Bond is on the desperate run to make it to a public phone box to phone London. These scenes are well played even by today's standards.

The blend of cast such as Dianna Rigg and Gabriele Ferzette add icing to the cake. Gabriele Ferzette plays the part of a Mediterranean very well just like he did in the 1950 Italian movie "Lo Zappatore". In OHMSS Dianna Rigg has that lovely Mediterranean appearance with a strong but gentle English accent, giving a misleading innocent look, but at the same time a shrewd impression. She must have been a disturbed child having missed her mother and still has rebellion of a teenager where Bond slowly works on trying to show her empathy and understanding. He has to work hard on winning her trust and achieves it genuinely well in a gentleman fashion, which by today's standards would be impossible (especially when being refused the first time, any later request is then regarded as harassment). Dianna Rigg plays the total opposite to the glamour girls in other Bond films, where they use their looks in manipulating Bond's emotions only to get information from him.

The scene while cracking the safe code in the Lawyer's office is well performed where he takes off his Rolex Submariner to place it on the photocopier while pretending to enjoy the Playboy magazine which he later uses as a distraction while walking towards the lifts.

The part that shows Bond to be again human is when he is holding his dead bride in the car where he quietly tells the policeman that it is alright.

The music of Louis Armstrong is well selected as we have all the time in the world. Every viewer will react differently in his or her own way to this movie, but I always see something different whenever I watch it. It is underrated just as "for your eyes only" and "From Russia with love".

If you were a young child living in England during any period of the 1960's, then this show is for you. If you miss the sixties, the live sounds of The Beatles, Donovan, Dusty Springfield together with many cult bands in those times of magic when we felt like as if life took you beyond your dreams, then this television series will help you reminisce and relate to such times more than any other television show ( to my knowledge) that is set in that era which contains the British atmosphere. The plot and theme enriches much of the simple life of a Beautiful English country town somewhere in Yorke, initially focusing around the interaction of a local Bobby - Nick Rowan ( played by Nick Berry) with the characters that make up the village community. Nearly all of the characters play a unique and important role, creating a new and interesting episode which leads the viewer enticed to want more. The episodes are beautifully supported by background music made popular by artists of that era and sometimes earlier (as the title tune `Heartbeat' was made famous by Buddy Holly in the late fifties) all depending on the scenes, bringing the sixties as alive as possible.

Every episode can be identified by it's title as most series are and each has it's own merit. It would be next to impossible to comment on all of them here, but two particular episodes which have strongly impacted me were; firstly, when Dr Ferrenby (played by Frank Middlemass) departs the series during a fishing trip and gets swamped into the river by the waves of water. It is a very moving scene superbly supported by the background music`Windmills of your mind' (soundtrack to the original 1968 `Thomas Crown Affair') resulting in an exceptionally directed scene. The news is then conveyed to Dr, Kate Rowan (played by Niamh Cusack) who is a colleague of Dr Ferrenby where she is naturally devastated by the news. Dr. Kate Rowan (who later departs the series when she dies from Leukemia) is a beautiful and empathetic character full of charm which the community get to love, underpinning the village morale. The other impressive episode titled `Baby Blues' is again well directed and filmed with a lovely scenery of the beautiful greenery of the Yorke country landscape which is well blended with the background music `Catch the wind' made famous by Donovan back in 1965. The echoes in this background music is well blended giving me goosebumps, hence giving a perfect sixties feel. This episode is one that demonstrates the teething problems that were associated with the typical stereotypes (highly contrasted to today) in the prejudices of judging a book by it's cover, where a group of hippies are accused by snobby upper middle class people for the disappearance of a baby. Cutting a long story short, it is the Hippies that eventually lead to successfully locating the missing baby. The snobby lady then swallows her pride with gratitude and wishes to offer them a reward, which they refuse to take, hinting to her that she had misjudged them. It is a powerful statement of the times which in turn is still valid by todays standards on a different platform

Other characters include the the village Sargent, Oscar Blaketon ( brilliantly performed by Derek Fowlds) who is overly obsessed with catching in the act another semi-comedy scruffy couch potato character Claude Greengrass (brilliantly performed by Bill Maynard) who is one of the village petty rogues who has never being caught for any of his scams. Greengrass is always accompanied by his shaggy dog - Alfred. It also has moments of comedy where one episode has Greengrass with his dog in the local pub and someone complains about fleas. Greengrass is immediately on the defence to claim that his dog is clean, but is soon corrected that it isn't the dog they were complaining about, but of him instead.

The only unrealistic component of this series is that almost every episode that I am aware of has a crime occurring, making this Yorkeshire village one of the most unsafest villages in the world which would obviously not be the case. However, this is probably purposely plotted to avoid the series from tarnishing to boredom which is a nightmare faced by anyone responsible for maintaining successful ratings of any television series.

This series have been running for some 10 years and naturally has changed so much in it's story lines with different characters coming and leaving the series, but the atmosphere and setting has remained unchanged. I have never seen anything like it as it is uniquely focused on a time and life that makes the show what it is and it is superbly cast and filmed.