Mark Shelmerdine, the veteran producer who revived London Films as an indie powerhouse and played a pivotal role in the development of the international TV distribution market, died October 26 in Santa Barbara surrounded by his family. He was 78.
Among his achievements, he was among the first UK indie TV producers to retain rights to a broadcast production and was a founder of the LA branch of BAFTA.
Shelmerdine’s death was confirmed to Deadline by his friend Brian Eastman. The producer had survived a rare and potentially deadly form of bile duct cancer by receiving a life-saving liver transplant in 2018 through a trial in Houston, and was one of the longest living survivors of the MD Anderson Cancer Center and Houston Methodist Hospital program.
Born on March 27, 1945, Shelmerdine spent part of his childhood in Singapore before moving to the UK. He was awarded a place to attend Sidney Sussex College...
Among his achievements, he was among the first UK indie TV producers to retain rights to a broadcast production and was a founder of the LA branch of BAFTA.
Shelmerdine’s death was confirmed to Deadline by his friend Brian Eastman. The producer had survived a rare and potentially deadly form of bile duct cancer by receiving a life-saving liver transplant in 2018 through a trial in Houston, and was one of the longest living survivors of the MD Anderson Cancer Center and Houston Methodist Hospital program.
Born on March 27, 1945, Shelmerdine spent part of his childhood in Singapore before moving to the UK. He was awarded a place to attend Sidney Sussex College...
- 12/1/2023
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
Mark Shelmerdine, the Emmy-nominated producer who remade Alexander Korda’s dormant London Films label into an independent production powerhouse behind projects including I, Claudius, has died. He was 78.
Shelmerdine died Oct. 26 in Santa Barbara after a long illness, friend and fellow producer Brian Eastman told The Hollywood Reporter. After being diagnosed with a rare form of bile duct cancer in 2016, he had a life-saving liver transplant in 2018.
In the 1980s, Shelmerdine co-founded the Los Angeles branch of BAFTA and the Association of Independent Television Producers, which helped shape the sector that now dominates British TV production. He also published self-help books written by his late wife, Susan Jeffers.
The first of three children, Shelmerdine was born on March 27, 1945, in Buckinghamshire, England. His father, Dick, worked as a police office in Singapore and the Bahamas and as a postmaster in Gloucestershire, England.
Shelmerdine started out as an accountant at Coopers & Lybrand and Taylor Clark Ltd.
Shelmerdine died Oct. 26 in Santa Barbara after a long illness, friend and fellow producer Brian Eastman told The Hollywood Reporter. After being diagnosed with a rare form of bile duct cancer in 2016, he had a life-saving liver transplant in 2018.
In the 1980s, Shelmerdine co-founded the Los Angeles branch of BAFTA and the Association of Independent Television Producers, which helped shape the sector that now dominates British TV production. He also published self-help books written by his late wife, Susan Jeffers.
The first of three children, Shelmerdine was born on March 27, 1945, in Buckinghamshire, England. His father, Dick, worked as a police office in Singapore and the Bahamas and as a postmaster in Gloucestershire, England.
Shelmerdine started out as an accountant at Coopers & Lybrand and Taylor Clark Ltd.
- 11/29/2023
- by Mike Barnes
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
"I want you to make me a promise: not to get excited." Cohen Media Group & Cohen Film Collection have debuted an official trailer for a 2K restoration re-release of the classic 1979 film The Europeans, the first in James Ivory's Henry James triptych. Set in the fall of 1850, a few miles outside Boston. The household of the dour Mr. Wentworth receives two unannounced visitors from Europe, Eugenia and Felix, the daughter and son of his half sister. The film deals with "the social and moral clashes between the New World and the Continent." This first premiered at the 1979 Cannes Film Festival, and went on to earn one Academy Award nomination for Best Costume Design. The costume design and its production design "solidified the 'state-of-the-art' (and impeccably researched) period trappings that have since become synonymous with Merchant Ivory." Starring Lee Remick, Robin Ellis, Wesley Addy, and Tim Choate. Enjoy the new trailer below.
- 12/13/2019
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
Louisa Mellor Nov 17, 2019
So long, and thanks for all the pilchards – it’s the last ever Poldark. Spoilers in our review…
This Poldark review contains spoilers. It was originally published by Den of Geek UK.
“I swear to you my love, I will return,” said Ross before walking away in slow-motion, coat tails swishing around his hero’s buttocks. He wasn’t talking to Demelza of course, but to us – the legion of viewers for whom Poldark has been our annual summer holiday for the past four years. In a few years he’ll be back, they all will, older but probably not wiser.
Wisdom has never been Ross’ strong suit, nor of late, this show’s. While the finale righted a few recent wrongs and dialled back the hyperactive pace, it still landed on the dippy end of the silliness scale - somewhere between ‘high-heeled wellies’ and ‘dogs wearing...
So long, and thanks for all the pilchards – it’s the last ever Poldark. Spoilers in our review…
This Poldark review contains spoilers. It was originally published by Den of Geek UK.
“I swear to you my love, I will return,” said Ross before walking away in slow-motion, coat tails swishing around his hero’s buttocks. He wasn’t talking to Demelza of course, but to us – the legion of viewers for whom Poldark has been our annual summer holiday for the past four years. In a few years he’ll be back, they all will, older but probably not wiser.
Wisdom has never been Ross’ strong suit, nor of late, this show’s. While the finale righted a few recent wrongs and dialled back the hyperactive pace, it still landed on the dippy end of the silliness scale - somewhere between ‘high-heeled wellies’ and ‘dogs wearing...
- 8/27/2019
- Den of Geek
Are you ready for more passion, defiance, betrayal and an unforgettable love story? Ahead of the second season of its Poldark TV series, PBS will air the new "Poldark Revealed" TV show special, on Sunday, September 18, at 9:00pm Et/Pt. Watch a preview, below.A Cornish period drama series set after the American Revolution, Poldark stars Aidan Turner, Eleanor Tomlinson, Heida Reed, Jack Fathering, Kyle, Soller, Warren Clarke, Phil Davis, Beatie Edney, Ruby Bentall, Richard Harrington, Robin Ellis, Luke Norris, Richard Hope, Alexander Arnold, Pip Torrens, and Caroline Blakiston. Poldark season two premieres Sunday, September 25, 2016 at 8:00pm Et/Pt.Read More…...
- 8/17/2016
- by TVSeriesFinale.com
- TVSeriesFinale.com
Keep your shirts on, Captain Ross will return and probably without his. The BBC confirms it has renewed the Poldark TV show for a third season on BBC One. There was little worry that Poldark would be cancelled. Last month, we reported filming had already begun on season three. The second series of Poldark will air on both PBS Masterpiece and BBC One in fall, 2016, date Tba.A British drama series set in Cornwall, England, after the American Revolution, the Poldark TV series cast includes: Aidan Turner, Eleanor Tomlinson, Heida Reed, Jack Fathering, Kyle, Soller, Warren Clarke, Phil Davis, Beatie Edney, Ruby Bentall, Richard Harrington, Robin Ellis, Luke Norris, Richard Hope, Alexander Arnold, Pip Torrens, and Caroline Blakiston.Read More…...
- 7/6/2016
- by TVSeriesFinale.com
- TVSeriesFinale.com
[caption id="attachment_51138" align="aligncenter" width="393"] (C) Robert Viglasky/Mammoth Screen for Masterpiece./caption]
Radio Times reports the Poldark TV show has been renewed for a third season on BBC One. According to the report, although the BBC has not yet announced recommissioning the program for a third series, filming has already been scheduled for September, 2016. In the Us, season one of Poldark premiered on PBS under the Masterpiece banner in June 2015. The second season of Poldark will air on BBC One in fall, 2016. PBS has yet to announce Poldark, season two.
A British drama series set after the American Revolutionary War, The Poldark TV series cast includes: Aidan Turner, Eleanor Tomlinson, Heida Reed, Jack Fathering, Kyle, Soller, Warren Clarke, Phil Davis, Beatie Edney, Ruby Bentall, Richard Harrington, Robin Ellis, Luke Norris, Richard Hope, Alexander Arnold, Pip Torrens, and Caroline Blakiston.
Read More…...
Radio Times reports the Poldark TV show has been renewed for a third season on BBC One. According to the report, although the BBC has not yet announced recommissioning the program for a third series, filming has already been scheduled for September, 2016. In the Us, season one of Poldark premiered on PBS under the Masterpiece banner in June 2015. The second season of Poldark will air on BBC One in fall, 2016. PBS has yet to announce Poldark, season two.
A British drama series set after the American Revolutionary War, The Poldark TV series cast includes: Aidan Turner, Eleanor Tomlinson, Heida Reed, Jack Fathering, Kyle, Soller, Warren Clarke, Phil Davis, Beatie Edney, Ruby Bentall, Richard Harrington, Robin Ellis, Luke Norris, Richard Hope, Alexander Arnold, Pip Torrens, and Caroline Blakiston.
Read More…...
- 6/21/2016
- by TVSeriesFinale.com
- TVSeriesFinale.com
Poldark: BBC One, 9pm
Ross Poldark's life in late 18th century Cornwall gets more complicated as Elizabeth gives birth.
Rumours spread about his relationship with Demelza, and Robin Ellis, who starred in the original 1970s adaptation, makes a guest appearance as a magistrate.
Louis Theroux: By Reason of Insanity: BBC Two, 9pm
In the first of a two-part documentary, the journalist travels to Ohio's State Psychiatric Hospital for his latest investigation.
He meets patients who have committed violent crimes and been found "not guilty by reason of insanity".
Indian Summers: Channel 4, 9pm
1930s India is the set of conflicts between the British elite and those struggling for independence.
A mountaineer saves Alice, Madeleine, and Ronnie from danger - but are they willing to give him what he wants in return? Meanwhile, Darius wants to get Sita accepted by the Dalal family.
How to Get Away with Murder: Universal Channel,...
Ross Poldark's life in late 18th century Cornwall gets more complicated as Elizabeth gives birth.
Rumours spread about his relationship with Demelza, and Robin Ellis, who starred in the original 1970s adaptation, makes a guest appearance as a magistrate.
Louis Theroux: By Reason of Insanity: BBC Two, 9pm
In the first of a two-part documentary, the journalist travels to Ohio's State Psychiatric Hospital for his latest investigation.
He meets patients who have committed violent crimes and been found "not guilty by reason of insanity".
Indian Summers: Channel 4, 9pm
1930s India is the set of conflicts between the British elite and those struggling for independence.
A mountaineer saves Alice, Madeleine, and Ronnie from danger - but are they willing to give him what he wants in return? Meanwhile, Darius wants to get Sita accepted by the Dalal family.
How to Get Away with Murder: Universal Channel,...
- 3/22/2015
- Digital Spy
Robin Ellis is disappointed by 'Poldark's nudity. The 73-year-old actor played the protagonist in the original television series, and has berated the new BBC One version for not casting an ''ordinary bloke'' as Captain Ross Poldark. He commented: ''I was just an ordinary bloke; in those days male actors weren't muscular and buff. In the Seventies people would have been really taken aback - shocked, even - if I'd revealed the sort of tanned, toned six-pack that's commonplace now.'' The star - who now makes a living writing cookery books in France - explained the series' main actor Aidan Turner's many topless scenes...
- 3/11/2015
- Virgin Media - TV
Poldark BBC1
The BBC haven’t shied away from talking about the 1970s adaptation of Winston Graham’s novels in the build-up to tonight’s first installment of Poldark. Perhaps they were hoping to attract a ready-made audience among fans of that critically acclaimed series. There’s a certain logic to that strategy but you also run the risk that you’ll end up with unfavorable comparisons. So with that said, I’ll begin by talking about the new Poldark in isolation.
The costumes and design were excellent. The cast were good and well suited to their respective roles. There were of course some nice shots of waves crashing against clifftops and lots of earthy village scenes. It was as good as other period drama fare that the Beeb have served up in recent years which isn’t necessarily a good thing as they all seem to blur into each other.
The BBC haven’t shied away from talking about the 1970s adaptation of Winston Graham’s novels in the build-up to tonight’s first installment of Poldark. Perhaps they were hoping to attract a ready-made audience among fans of that critically acclaimed series. There’s a certain logic to that strategy but you also run the risk that you’ll end up with unfavorable comparisons. So with that said, I’ll begin by talking about the new Poldark in isolation.
The costumes and design were excellent. The cast were good and well suited to their respective roles. There were of course some nice shots of waves crashing against clifftops and lots of earthy village scenes. It was as good as other period drama fare that the Beeb have served up in recent years which isn’t necessarily a good thing as they all seem to blur into each other.
- 3/9/2015
- by Edited by K Kinsella
Aidan Turner has described BBC One's new Poldark series as "sexy as hell".
The Being Human actor plays dashing Ross Poldark in a new 8-part serial, based on Winston Graham's novels.
"It's sexy as hell," Turner told press including Digital Spy. "I have a nude swimming scene - I get naked a couple of times in it.
"I wasn't allowed any Cornish pasties, 'cos I'd get fat - and I have to take my top off so much!"
Poldark was previously adapted for television in the '70s, but Turner said he is not concerned about how fans of the original might react to the new version.
"I don't think about it like that," he insisted. "You tackle the scripts and it's just like anything else - you don't think about letting down the fans of the old series or appealing to new fans…
"You just don't think about those things,...
The Being Human actor plays dashing Ross Poldark in a new 8-part serial, based on Winston Graham's novels.
"It's sexy as hell," Turner told press including Digital Spy. "I have a nude swimming scene - I get naked a couple of times in it.
"I wasn't allowed any Cornish pasties, 'cos I'd get fat - and I have to take my top off so much!"
Poldark was previously adapted for television in the '70s, but Turner said he is not concerned about how fans of the original might react to the new version.
"I don't think about it like that," he insisted. "You tackle the scripts and it's just like anything else - you don't think about letting down the fans of the old series or appealing to new fans…
"You just don't think about those things,...
- 3/5/2015
- Digital Spy
Aidan Turner was too ''afraid'' to watch the original 'Poldark' series when filming the remake. The 31-year-old actor plays lead character Captain Ross Poldark in the eight-episode BBC One drama but confessed the pressure to live up to the critically acclaimed original series, broadcast between 1975 and 1977, was too much, so he decided to avoid it. He explained: ''I decided not to watch the originals on DVD because I was afraid it would influence me in the wrong way. I had heard Robin Ellis's performance was so good and I didn't want to end up mimicking him, so I read the...
- 3/3/2015
- Virgin Media - TV
Poldark star Aidan Turner has admitted that the cast of the period drama were "scared" of mumbling complaints during filming.
The actor - who will lead the cast of the BBC One adaptation of Winston Graham's acclaimed books - said that the furore created by Jamaica Inn affected the cast.
Hundreds of viewers complained about sound issues during the first episode of Jamaica Inn last year, with many suggesting the problems came from cast members mumbling their lines.
Turner told the Radio Times: "I didn't see the show Jamaica Inn but the fuss about it spooked us all a lot.
"We started shooting a few weeks later and I can tell you all the actors were aiming for 10 out of 10 on enunciation. I'm doing posh Rp (Received Pronunciation) anyway so it didn't really affect me directly but I was scared."
The Being Human actor is joined in the adaptation by Eleanor Tomlinson as Demelza.
The actor - who will lead the cast of the BBC One adaptation of Winston Graham's acclaimed books - said that the furore created by Jamaica Inn affected the cast.
Hundreds of viewers complained about sound issues during the first episode of Jamaica Inn last year, with many suggesting the problems came from cast members mumbling their lines.
Turner told the Radio Times: "I didn't see the show Jamaica Inn but the fuss about it spooked us all a lot.
"We started shooting a few weeks later and I can tell you all the actors were aiming for 10 out of 10 on enunciation. I'm doing posh Rp (Received Pronunciation) anyway so it didn't really affect me directly but I was scared."
The Being Human actor is joined in the adaptation by Eleanor Tomlinson as Demelza.
- 3/3/2015
- Digital Spy
The BBC has released a trailer for Debbie Horsfield's upcoming adaptation of Poldark.
The series features Being Human star Aidan Turner in the title role of Ross Poldark.
The adaptation of Winston Graham's acclaimed books will also star Eleanor Tomlinson as Demelza.
The show follows the rebellious Ross Poldark as he returns from the American War of Independence to his home town Cornwall, discovering that it has changed dramatically since he has been away.
It is the second time the BBC has produced a Poldark series. The first was in the 1970s and starred Robin Ellis as the title character.
Ellis will be returning as Reverend Halse for two episodes.
Red Riding actor Warren Clarke, Whitechapel star Phil Davis, Skins's Alexander Arnold and The Inbetweeners' Luke Norris will also appear in the show.
The new series will air on BBC One.
The series features Being Human star Aidan Turner in the title role of Ross Poldark.
The adaptation of Winston Graham's acclaimed books will also star Eleanor Tomlinson as Demelza.
The show follows the rebellious Ross Poldark as he returns from the American War of Independence to his home town Cornwall, discovering that it has changed dramatically since he has been away.
It is the second time the BBC has produced a Poldark series. The first was in the 1970s and starred Robin Ellis as the title character.
Ellis will be returning as Reverend Halse for two episodes.
Red Riding actor Warren Clarke, Whitechapel star Phil Davis, Skins's Alexander Arnold and The Inbetweeners' Luke Norris will also appear in the show.
The new series will air on BBC One.
- 2/16/2015
- Digital Spy
Luke Norris has joined the cast of BBC One's Poldark.
The actor - best known for appearing in The Inbetweeners - joins Being Human star Aidan Turner in the cast for the period drama.
Norris will play Dwight Enys, who is the best friend of Turner's protagonist Ross Poldark.
Poldark follows the rebellious Ross as he returns from the American War of Independence to Cornwall, discovering that his home county has changed since he has been away.
Debbie Horsfield is adapting Winston Graham's acclaimed Cornish saga for a new eight-part series, which will air on BBC One in 2015.
The BBC previously produced a Poldark series in the 1970s, starring Robin Ellis as Ross Poldark.
The actor - best known for appearing in The Inbetweeners - joins Being Human star Aidan Turner in the cast for the period drama.
Norris will play Dwight Enys, who is the best friend of Turner's protagonist Ross Poldark.
Poldark follows the rebellious Ross as he returns from the American War of Independence to Cornwall, discovering that his home county has changed since he has been away.
Debbie Horsfield is adapting Winston Graham's acclaimed Cornish saga for a new eight-part series, which will air on BBC One in 2015.
The BBC previously produced a Poldark series in the 1970s, starring Robin Ellis as Ross Poldark.
- 6/25/2014
- Digital Spy
Aidan Turner has featured in a new picture from BBC One's upcoming Poldark adaptation.
The Being Human star will lead the cast of Debbie Horsfield's version of Winston Graham's acclaimed Cornish saga.
He will play main character Ross Poldark in the eight-part drama, opposite Eleanor Tomlinson as Demelza.
Poldark follows the rebellious Ross as he returns from the American War of Independence to Cornwall, discovering that his home county has changed since he has been away.
The BBC previously produced a Poldark series in the 1970s, starring Robin Ellis as Ross Poldark.
Ellis will return as Reverend Haise for two of the drama's eight episodes.
Red Riding actor Warren Clarke (Ross's uncle Charles), Whitechapel star Phil Davis (Ross's manservant Jud) and Skins veteran Alexander Arnold (Ross's farm hand Jim Carter) will also appear.
The new series will air on BBC One in 2015.
The Being Human star will lead the cast of Debbie Horsfield's version of Winston Graham's acclaimed Cornish saga.
He will play main character Ross Poldark in the eight-part drama, opposite Eleanor Tomlinson as Demelza.
Poldark follows the rebellious Ross as he returns from the American War of Independence to Cornwall, discovering that his home county has changed since he has been away.
The BBC previously produced a Poldark series in the 1970s, starring Robin Ellis as Ross Poldark.
Ellis will return as Reverend Haise for two of the drama's eight episodes.
Red Riding actor Warren Clarke (Ross's uncle Charles), Whitechapel star Phil Davis (Ross's manservant Jud) and Skins veteran Alexander Arnold (Ross's farm hand Jim Carter) will also appear.
The new series will air on BBC One in 2015.
- 5/8/2014
- Digital Spy
BBC One has announced full details of its new Poldark adaptation.
Aidan Turner and Eleanor Tomlinson will lead the cast of the sweeping Cornish saga as Ross Poldark and Demelza.
Red Riding actor Warren Clarke (Ross's uncle Charles), Whitechapel star Phil Davis (Ross's manservant Jud) and Skins veteran Alexander Arnold (Ross's farm hand Jim Carter) will also appear in the forthcoming drama.
Winston Graham's Poldark novels were previously adapted by the BBC in the 1970s, with Robin Ellis cast in the lead role of Ross.
Ellis - now 72 - will also appear in the new series, taking on the part of Reverend Haise for two of the eight episodes.
Executive producer Karen Thrussell said: "We're so thrilled by the Poldark cast, and we feel particularly privileged that Robin Ellis has agreed to join this stellar lineup - it's a great tribute to Debbie Horsfield's scripts.
"Robin is looking...
Aidan Turner and Eleanor Tomlinson will lead the cast of the sweeping Cornish saga as Ross Poldark and Demelza.
Red Riding actor Warren Clarke (Ross's uncle Charles), Whitechapel star Phil Davis (Ross's manservant Jud) and Skins veteran Alexander Arnold (Ross's farm hand Jim Carter) will also appear in the forthcoming drama.
Winston Graham's Poldark novels were previously adapted by the BBC in the 1970s, with Robin Ellis cast in the lead role of Ross.
Ellis - now 72 - will also appear in the new series, taking on the part of Reverend Haise for two of the eight episodes.
Executive producer Karen Thrussell said: "We're so thrilled by the Poldark cast, and we feel particularly privileged that Robin Ellis has agreed to join this stellar lineup - it's a great tribute to Debbie Horsfield's scripts.
"Robin is looking...
- 4/11/2014
- Digital Spy
Eleanor Tomlinson has joined the cast of BBC One's upcoming new adaptation of Winston Graham's Poldark.
The White Queen actress will star as "fiercely independent heroine" Demelza in the drama.
Aidan Turner will lead the cast as Ross Poldark in the retelling from Debbie Horsfield.
Set in 18th century Cornwall, Poldark is an eight-part hour-long series and will film in Cornwall and Bristol from April.
Poldark will follow the rebellious Ross as he returns from the American War of Independence to Cornwall, discovering that his home county has changed since he has been away.
The BBC previously produced a Poldark series in the 1970s, starring Robin Ellis as Ross Poldark.
The new series will air on BBC One in 2015.
Tomlinson is best known for her roles of Isabel Neville in The White Queen and Georgiana Darcy in Death Comes to Pemberley. She has also starred in episodes of Poirot and The Sarah Jane Adventures.
The White Queen actress will star as "fiercely independent heroine" Demelza in the drama.
Aidan Turner will lead the cast as Ross Poldark in the retelling from Debbie Horsfield.
Set in 18th century Cornwall, Poldark is an eight-part hour-long series and will film in Cornwall and Bristol from April.
Poldark will follow the rebellious Ross as he returns from the American War of Independence to Cornwall, discovering that his home county has changed since he has been away.
The BBC previously produced a Poldark series in the 1970s, starring Robin Ellis as Ross Poldark.
The new series will air on BBC One in 2015.
Tomlinson is best known for her roles of Isabel Neville in The White Queen and Georgiana Darcy in Death Comes to Pemberley. She has also starred in episodes of Poirot and The Sarah Jane Adventures.
- 3/31/2014
- Digital Spy
Aidan Turner — Poldark
Aidan Turner (Being Human) will take on the titular role in a brand new adaptation of Winston Graham’s Poldark. Filming commences this Spring for the drama which is being produced by Mammoth Screen (Endeavour) for BBC1. Debbie Horsfield has adapted the novels for the small screen while Ed Bazalgette (The Guilty, Endeavour) will direct the series.
An initial season of eight 60-minute episodes will air in early 2015. The new version of Poldark will make its television debut precisely 40 years after Robin Ellis first appeared onscreen as the title character in the BBC’s previous version of the show. Mammoth Screen will be hoping that the new version of Poldark is as successful as the previous one which was a hit in over 40 countries and was voted one as one of PBS Masterpiece’s top ten shows of all time.
Click below to read our interview with...
Aidan Turner (Being Human) will take on the titular role in a brand new adaptation of Winston Graham’s Poldark. Filming commences this Spring for the drama which is being produced by Mammoth Screen (Endeavour) for BBC1. Debbie Horsfield has adapted the novels for the small screen while Ed Bazalgette (The Guilty, Endeavour) will direct the series.
An initial season of eight 60-minute episodes will air in early 2015. The new version of Poldark will make its television debut precisely 40 years after Robin Ellis first appeared onscreen as the title character in the BBC’s previous version of the show. Mammoth Screen will be hoping that the new version of Poldark is as successful as the previous one which was a hit in over 40 countries and was voted one as one of PBS Masterpiece’s top ten shows of all time.
Click below to read our interview with...
- 3/2/2014
- by Edited by K Kinsella
Aidan Turner, who played vampire Mitchell in BBC Three's Being Human, will star as Ross Poldark in a new BBC adaptation of Winston Graham’s acclaimed saga set in 18th century Cornwall.
Described as a man of contradictions, Ross Poldark has a strong sense of social justice but a contempt for authority. He’s a man of principle yet frequently a rebel. Reckless yet full of integrity. Charismatic but down-to-earth. Volatile yet fiercely loyal. Torn between two women and two social classes. A hero to most, a scourge to many.
Britain is in the grip of a chilling recession... falling wages, rising prices, civil unrest - only the bankers are smiling. It's 1783 and Ross Poldark returns from the American War of Independence to his beloved Cornwall to find his world in ruins: his father dead, the family mine long since closed, his house wrecked and his sweetheart pledged to marry his cousin.
Described as a man of contradictions, Ross Poldark has a strong sense of social justice but a contempt for authority. He’s a man of principle yet frequently a rebel. Reckless yet full of integrity. Charismatic but down-to-earth. Volatile yet fiercely loyal. Torn between two women and two social classes. A hero to most, a scourge to many.
Britain is in the grip of a chilling recession... falling wages, rising prices, civil unrest - only the bankers are smiling. It's 1783 and Ross Poldark returns from the American War of Independence to his beloved Cornwall to find his world in ruins: his father dead, the family mine long since closed, his house wrecked and his sweetheart pledged to marry his cousin.
- 2/28/2014
- by noreply@blogger.com (ScreenTerrier)
- ScreenTerrier
Aidan Turner is to star in a new adaptation of Poldark for BBC One.
The Being Human star will play Ross Poldark in Debbie Horsfield's adaptation of Winston Graham's acclaimed saga.
Set in 18th century Cornwall, Poldark is an eight-part hour-long series and will film in Cornwall and Bristol from April.
"I'm very excited to play Ross Poldark for the BBC," said Turner, who also stars in The Hobbit movies.
"It's obviously a huge challenge to honour the extraordinary character Winston Graham created and who Debbie Horsfield has brought new life to. But there's a terrific team coming together and the scripts are superb, so I can't wait to get started."
Poldark will follow the rebellious Ross as he returns from the American War of Independence to Cornwall, only to find that his beloved county has dramatically changed in his absence.
Ben Stephenson, Controller, BBC Drama Commissioning, said: "We are really excited.
The Being Human star will play Ross Poldark in Debbie Horsfield's adaptation of Winston Graham's acclaimed saga.
Set in 18th century Cornwall, Poldark is an eight-part hour-long series and will film in Cornwall and Bristol from April.
"I'm very excited to play Ross Poldark for the BBC," said Turner, who also stars in The Hobbit movies.
"It's obviously a huge challenge to honour the extraordinary character Winston Graham created and who Debbie Horsfield has brought new life to. But there's a terrific team coming together and the scripts are superb, so I can't wait to get started."
Poldark will follow the rebellious Ross as he returns from the American War of Independence to Cornwall, only to find that his beloved county has dramatically changed in his absence.
Ben Stephenson, Controller, BBC Drama Commissioning, said: "We are really excited.
- 2/28/2014
- Digital Spy
Midsomer Murders ITV
Despite the demise of Poirot and the unexpected cancellation of Whitechapel, ITV continues to dominate the market for British TV detective shows. Within this genre, there is arguably no show more popular than Midsomer Murders, and more blood has been spilled on the streets of Britain’s most dangerous rural community in the stories included in Acorn’s latest DVD release. Midsomer Murders Set 23 features three tales that are intriguing, unpredictable and just a little bit peculiar.
The trilogy of tales begins with The Dark Rider, a spooky adventure in which local residents are seemingly being tormented by the vengeful spirit of a headless horseman. The guest stars include William Gaunt who is perhaps best known for his role as Martin Clunes’ Dad in No Place Like Home. His onscreen wife is Doctor Who veteran Eleanor Bron while James Callis has his work cut out playing twins.
Despite the demise of Poirot and the unexpected cancellation of Whitechapel, ITV continues to dominate the market for British TV detective shows. Within this genre, there is arguably no show more popular than Midsomer Murders, and more blood has been spilled on the streets of Britain’s most dangerous rural community in the stories included in Acorn’s latest DVD release. Midsomer Murders Set 23 features three tales that are intriguing, unpredictable and just a little bit peculiar.
The trilogy of tales begins with The Dark Rider, a spooky adventure in which local residents are seemingly being tormented by the vengeful spirit of a headless horseman. The guest stars include William Gaunt who is perhaps best known for his role as Martin Clunes’ Dad in No Place Like Home. His onscreen wife is Doctor Who veteran Eleanor Bron while James Callis has his work cut out playing twins.
- 2/2/2014
- by Edited by K Kinsella
'Poldark' is returning to TV. The classic costume drama will air in a six-part series on BBC One later this year, almost 40 years after the original - which starred Robin Ellis in the title role alongside Kevin McNally, Christopher Biggins and Trudy Styler - first broadcast. The show, which will film in Cornwall, is adapted from Winston Graham's novels and is set in the late 18th century. It tells the story of Captain Ross Poldark who returns home from war to find his father dead, his house in ruins and overrun by unruly servants and the love of his life, Elizabeth,...
- 5/10/2013
- Virgin Media - Celebrity
'Poldark' is returning to TV. The classic costume drama will air in a six-part series on BBC One later this year, almost 40 years after the original - which starred Robin Ellis in the title role alongside Kevin McNally, Christopher Biggins and Trudy Styler - first broadcast. The show, which will film in Cornwall, is adapted from Winston Graham's novels and is set in the late 18th century. It tells the story of Captain Ross Poldark who returns home from war to find his father dead, his house in ruins and overrun by unruly servants and the love of his life, Elizabeth,...
- 5/10/2013
- Virgin Media - TV
Acorn has the two seasons of Poldark on DVD for individual purchase, but now offers the series in a single complete set. It is newly packaged and accompanied by a multipage color illustrated booklet containing among other bits of Poldark legend, the first chapter of star Robin Ellis.s book Making Poldark. This is a wonderful addition to any collection. Based on the novels of Winston Graham, the quality of the literary drama has held up through the years. It is just as compelling a saga as it was when first aired. Long before there were nighttime soaps, people were rushing home on Sunday evenings to catch Masterpiece Theater on PBS and to watch compelling multi-episode series such as...
- 1/4/2013
- by June L.
- Monsters and Critics
A TV show DVD set represents more than a holiday gift that's easy to wrap. It also demonstrates respect: you know the recipient is mentally fit and couch-ready for a viewing marathon of "Dr. Who" or "House."
Those are among the new releases worth considering for the TV lover in your life:
Golden Oldies
_"The Dean Martin Variety Show: Dean's Ultimate Collection," Time Life. Ring-a-ding-ding! This is Dino's most comprehensive collection yet. With footage culled from nine seasons and 48 episodes of the NBC series, the set includes 17 DVDs with 32 hours of Dean and his pals that originally aired from 1965 to 1974. There are more than 300 musical performances, plus interviews and a guest list filled with virtually every major star of the era.
_"Poldark: The Complete Collection," Acorn Media. Less posh than "Downton Abbey" but just as addictive when it first aired in the 1970s, "Poldark" is a darkly romantic saga set in late 18th-century Cornwall.
Those are among the new releases worth considering for the TV lover in your life:
Golden Oldies
_"The Dean Martin Variety Show: Dean's Ultimate Collection," Time Life. Ring-a-ding-ding! This is Dino's most comprehensive collection yet. With footage culled from nine seasons and 48 episodes of the NBC series, the set includes 17 DVDs with 32 hours of Dean and his pals that originally aired from 1965 to 1974. There are more than 300 musical performances, plus interviews and a guest list filled with virtually every major star of the era.
_"Poldark: The Complete Collection," Acorn Media. Less posh than "Downton Abbey" but just as addictive when it first aired in the 1970s, "Poldark" is a darkly romantic saga set in late 18th-century Cornwall.
- 11/20/2012
- by AP
- Huffington Post
A TV show DVD set represents more than a holiday gift that's easy to wrap. It also demonstrates respect: you know the recipient is mentally fit and couch-ready for a viewing marathon of "Dr. Who" or "House."
Those are among the new releases worth considering for the TV lover in your life:
Golden Oldies
_"The Dean Martin Variety Show: Dean's Ultimate Collection," Time Life. Ring-a-ding-ding! This is Dino's most comprehensive collection yet. With footage culled from nine seasons and 48 episodes of the NBC series, the set includes 17 DVDs with 32 hours of Dean and his pals that originally aired from 1965 to 1974. There are more than 300 musical performances, plus interviews and a guest list filled with virtually every major star of the era.
_"Poldark: The Complete Collection," Acorn Media. Less posh than "Downton Abbey" but just as addictive when it first aired in the 1970s, "Poldark" is a darkly romantic saga set in late 18th-century Cornwall.
Those are among the new releases worth considering for the TV lover in your life:
Golden Oldies
_"The Dean Martin Variety Show: Dean's Ultimate Collection," Time Life. Ring-a-ding-ding! This is Dino's most comprehensive collection yet. With footage culled from nine seasons and 48 episodes of the NBC series, the set includes 17 DVDs with 32 hours of Dean and his pals that originally aired from 1965 to 1974. There are more than 300 musical performances, plus interviews and a guest list filled with virtually every major star of the era.
_"Poldark: The Complete Collection," Acorn Media. Less posh than "Downton Abbey" but just as addictive when it first aired in the 1970s, "Poldark" is a darkly romantic saga set in late 18th-century Cornwall.
- 11/20/2012
- by AP
- Aol TV.
Poldark
Kieran Kinsella
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Click Here To Read Our Robin Ellis Interview
On 31 January, Acorn media are releasing Poldark: The Complete Collection on DVD in the United States. For those of you who may not remember the series, Poldark was a swashbuckling period drama about a British soldier who had returned to Cornwall after fighting in the American war of independence.
It had been quite a while since I had seen the original series so I was wondering how well the show would shape up given that it was originally broadcast in the mid 1970s. As it turns out, the show held up very well indeed and is comparable with the best of the period pieces that are currently being aired on PBS. Unlike a lot of the classic shows from the era, the...
Kieran Kinsella
Click here to friend Best British TV on Facebook or here to follow us on Twitter
Click Here To Read Our Robin Ellis Interview
On 31 January, Acorn media are releasing Poldark: The Complete Collection on DVD in the United States. For those of you who may not remember the series, Poldark was a swashbuckling period drama about a British soldier who had returned to Cornwall after fighting in the American war of independence.
It had been quite a while since I had seen the original series so I was wondering how well the show would shape up given that it was originally broadcast in the mid 1970s. As it turns out, the show held up very well indeed and is comparable with the best of the period pieces that are currently being aired on PBS. Unlike a lot of the classic shows from the era, the...
- 1/4/2012
- by admin
Ride in Dalek
Kieran Kinsella
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Christmas comes but once a year and nobody wants to be the British TV fan that Santa Clause forgot. Therefore, we’ve put together a list of stocking stuffers that you can add to your Christmas wish list.
1. The Ride in Dalek. This one is ideally suited for small kids and people who have no issue with spending $200 on inflatables. It is battery operated with a maximum speed of 3 Km (2 miles) per hour. So you couldn’t make a living as a professional driver racing in one of these. Also, so far it is only available in the UK so you may have to pay a premium to a hawk on E-Bay if you want one shipped to the States but isn’t it worth it?
2. Downton Abbey Season Two DVD or Blu-Ray.
Kieran Kinsella
Click here to friend Best British TV on Facebook or here to follow us on Twitter.
Christmas comes but once a year and nobody wants to be the British TV fan that Santa Clause forgot. Therefore, we’ve put together a list of stocking stuffers that you can add to your Christmas wish list.
1. The Ride in Dalek. This one is ideally suited for small kids and people who have no issue with spending $200 on inflatables. It is battery operated with a maximum speed of 3 Km (2 miles) per hour. So you couldn’t make a living as a professional driver racing in one of these. Also, so far it is only available in the UK so you may have to pay a premium to a hawk on E-Bay if you want one shipped to the States but isn’t it worth it?
2. Downton Abbey Season Two DVD or Blu-Ray.
- 11/9/2011
- by admin
Sherlock Holmes
By B Van Heusen
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Sherlock producer Steven Moffat has reacted with dismay at reports that the U.S. network CBS have asked Timberman and Beverly productions to begin work on a “modern day Sherlock Holmes” drama. Rob Doherty has signed on to write the scripts and Sarah Timberman and Carl Beverly will executive produce the show. The network plan to base the drama around Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic tales but in this version Britain’s favorite sleuth will be a 21st century man rather than a Victorian era gentleman. Sound familiar? Fans of the UK series reacted angrily to the news and criticized CBS for lacking imagination. This is what Moffat had to say about it on Twitter:
“Dear CBS. A modern day Sherlock Holmes? Where, oh where, did you get That idea?...
By B Van Heusen
Click here to friend Best British TV on Facebook or here to follow us on twitter.
Sherlock producer Steven Moffat has reacted with dismay at reports that the U.S. network CBS have asked Timberman and Beverly productions to begin work on a “modern day Sherlock Holmes” drama. Rob Doherty has signed on to write the scripts and Sarah Timberman and Carl Beverly will executive produce the show. The network plan to base the drama around Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic tales but in this version Britain’s favorite sleuth will be a 21st century man rather than a Victorian era gentleman. Sound familiar? Fans of the UK series reacted angrily to the news and criticized CBS for lacking imagination. This is what Moffat had to say about it on Twitter:
“Dear CBS. A modern day Sherlock Holmes? Where, oh where, did you get That idea?...
- 9/14/2011
- by admin
Blackadder
By Kieran Kinsella
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Blackadder and Fawlty Towers are two of the greatest comedy shows in the history of British television but only one the these hilarious classics can truly claim to be the best. At BestBritishTV.com we like to settle such disputes the old fashioned way with a pistols at dawn shoot out. Let’s see what Edmund and Basil can bring to the table.
Amazon.com Widgets
Best Female Nemesis
Rowan Atkinson as Edmund Blackadder had almost as many incarnations as Doctor Who and like the Timelord, this comic villain encountered plenty of female foes. His greatest nemesis was Queen Elizabeth I who could not make her mind up as to whether she wanted to wed him or behead him. Her annoyingly high pitched laugh and her Baldrick-like dimwittedness made her...
By Kieran Kinsella
Click here to friend Best British TV on Facebook or here to follow us on twitter.
Blackadder and Fawlty Towers are two of the greatest comedy shows in the history of British television but only one the these hilarious classics can truly claim to be the best. At BestBritishTV.com we like to settle such disputes the old fashioned way with a pistols at dawn shoot out. Let’s see what Edmund and Basil can bring to the table.
Amazon.com Widgets
Best Female Nemesis
Rowan Atkinson as Edmund Blackadder had almost as many incarnations as Doctor Who and like the Timelord, this comic villain encountered plenty of female foes. His greatest nemesis was Queen Elizabeth I who could not make her mind up as to whether she wanted to wed him or behead him. Her annoyingly high pitched laugh and her Baldrick-like dimwittedness made her...
- 9/13/2011
- by admin
The Hour. co. BBC America
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The Hour has been dazzling and delighting audiences over the the UK and it is set to be aired on BBC America beginning on 17 August. However, if you are trying to offset the huge cost of running your A/C during the current heatwave by turning off your TV, you will be pleased to know that the series will be available on DVD as of the 27 September.
On 6 September, fans of British Period drama can lay their hands on Doctor Who’s answer to costume drama, The Talons of Weng-Chiang starring Tom Baker and one-time Bergerac star Louise Jameson. The latest installment of the Last and the Summer Wine (Holiday Specials 86-89) hits shelves on 13 September. However, if that A/C is still cranking at full pelt next month,...
Click here to friend Best British TV on Facebook or here to follow us on twitter.
The Hour has been dazzling and delighting audiences over the the UK and it is set to be aired on BBC America beginning on 17 August. However, if you are trying to offset the huge cost of running your A/C during the current heatwave by turning off your TV, you will be pleased to know that the series will be available on DVD as of the 27 September.
On 6 September, fans of British Period drama can lay their hands on Doctor Who’s answer to costume drama, The Talons of Weng-Chiang starring Tom Baker and one-time Bergerac star Louise Jameson. The latest installment of the Last and the Summer Wine (Holiday Specials 86-89) hits shelves on 13 September. However, if that A/C is still cranking at full pelt next month,...
- 8/8/2011
- by admin
Diana Rigg
When the queen in Snow White asked the magic mirror to name the fairest maiden of them all, the mirror obviously didn’t do his homework because if he had, then the famous fairy tale would be known as Diana Rigg rather than Snow White. Fans of the British actress are in for a treat on Monday 2 August because BBC America are releasing a DVD box set called “Diana Rigg at the BBC.” The five-disc set includes Diana at her comic best in The Three Piece Suite as well as some of her more recent work which includes The Mrs Bradley Mysteries. The Avengers star has to be the best British actress never to have appeared in Harry Potter so for $50 13 hours of Diana Rigg is a pretty good deal.
Dianna Rig
On the same day, BBC America are also releasing the DVD of Zen which is currently...
When the queen in Snow White asked the magic mirror to name the fairest maiden of them all, the mirror obviously didn’t do his homework because if he had, then the famous fairy tale would be known as Diana Rigg rather than Snow White. Fans of the British actress are in for a treat on Monday 2 August because BBC America are releasing a DVD box set called “Diana Rigg at the BBC.” The five-disc set includes Diana at her comic best in The Three Piece Suite as well as some of her more recent work which includes The Mrs Bradley Mysteries. The Avengers star has to be the best British actress never to have appeared in Harry Potter so for $50 13 hours of Diana Rigg is a pretty good deal.
Dianna Rig
On the same day, BBC America are also releasing the DVD of Zen which is currently...
- 7/29/2011
- by admin
Caterina Murino in Zen.
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Kieran Kinsella
Zen “Cabal.” the second of the three part series being aired as part of PBS Masterpiece Mystery’s summer line-up, was the kind of cleverly written tale on twists and turns that even Agatha Christie would have been proud of. The accent issue that proved to be a major distraction during episode one, was less of an issue in this episode since everyone had English accents except for Zen’s mom and of course his love interest (Caterina Murino).
The plot revolved around an apparent suicide that seemed to be a murder but turned out just to be suicide after all but along the way Zen had to contend with corrupt politicians, a corrupt cardinal, a high class prostitute, gangsters and a bitter ex-wife. It was all very...
Click here to friend us on Facebook or click here to follow our new Twitter page.
Kieran Kinsella
Zen “Cabal.” the second of the three part series being aired as part of PBS Masterpiece Mystery’s summer line-up, was the kind of cleverly written tale on twists and turns that even Agatha Christie would have been proud of. The accent issue that proved to be a major distraction during episode one, was less of an issue in this episode since everyone had English accents except for Zen’s mom and of course his love interest (Caterina Murino).
The plot revolved around an apparent suicide that seemed to be a murder but turned out just to be suicide after all but along the way Zen had to contend with corrupt politicians, a corrupt cardinal, a high class prostitute, gangsters and a bitter ex-wife. It was all very...
- 7/25/2011
- by admin
Robert Bathurst
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Downton Abbey star Robert Bathurst is set to join the cast of ITV’s Wild at Heart. Filming for the new season of the show will begin next month. Bathurst will play a veterinary surgeon named Ed Lynch and will join returning cast regulars such as Stephen Tompkinson, Dawn Steele and Hayley Mills. The new season will consist of 10 one hour long episodes that will air some time in 2012. The filming for the new season is largely being carried out in Africa and it is expected to wrap up in February of next year. The second season of Downton Abbey will also be screened on ITV some time in late 2012.
Recent Articles:
British Emmy Nominees
Robin Ellis Interview
BBC Drama: Great Expectations and Inside Men...
Click here to friend us on Facebook or click here to follow our new Twitter page.
Downton Abbey star Robert Bathurst is set to join the cast of ITV’s Wild at Heart. Filming for the new season of the show will begin next month. Bathurst will play a veterinary surgeon named Ed Lynch and will join returning cast regulars such as Stephen Tompkinson, Dawn Steele and Hayley Mills. The new season will consist of 10 one hour long episodes that will air some time in 2012. The filming for the new season is largely being carried out in Africa and it is expected to wrap up in February of next year. The second season of Downton Abbey will also be screened on ITV some time in late 2012.
Recent Articles:
British Emmy Nominees
Robin Ellis Interview
BBC Drama: Great Expectations and Inside Men...
- 7/22/2011
- by admin
Poirot. co. PBS
American media firm Acorn have announced the release of a new streaming service on which you can watch your favorite British TV classics. Acorn hold the rights to distribute many of the all time classic British TV shows such as Poldark and Poirot. Now however, the firm are also offering an online streaming service to U.S. based fans. To celebrate the launch of the new service, Acorn are offering free trial memberships which means you can get free access to classic shows between now and the 31 August. At any one time, Acorn will have 40 hours of programming available online and the line up of shows changes every six weeks. As of now, you can watch Upstairs Downstairs, Foyle’s War, Brideshead Revisited, The Forsythe Sage, Poirot and The Far Pavilions online. For a $24.99 annual subscription fee, you can get unlimited access to all of the shows...
American media firm Acorn have announced the release of a new streaming service on which you can watch your favorite British TV classics. Acorn hold the rights to distribute many of the all time classic British TV shows such as Poldark and Poirot. Now however, the firm are also offering an online streaming service to U.S. based fans. To celebrate the launch of the new service, Acorn are offering free trial memberships which means you can get free access to classic shows between now and the 31 August. At any one time, Acorn will have 40 hours of programming available online and the line up of shows changes every six weeks. As of now, you can watch Upstairs Downstairs, Foyle’s War, Brideshead Revisited, The Forsythe Sage, Poirot and The Far Pavilions online. For a $24.99 annual subscription fee, you can get unlimited access to all of the shows...
- 7/21/2011
- by admin
Dr Finlay. co. BBC
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Kieran Kinsella
When you talk about TV doctors, many people immediately think of Richard Chamberlain. However, doctors have always been a major feature of TV shows on this side of the Atlantic and to honor the men and women who monitor the health of our favorite fictional characters, here are the Best British TV Doctors.
Dr Finlay (Bill Simpson) in Dr Finlay’s Casebook. Set in the Scottish town of Tannochbrae, Dr Finlay’s Casebook was first broadcast 49 years ago and even at that time Dr Finlay was something of a throwback to simpler times. Despite his small town surroundings, he valiantly fought against all kinds of ills that included his nutty housekeeper and a pernicious rival.
Doc Martin (Martin Clunes) in Doc Martin. Martin Clunes is not behaving as...
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Kieran Kinsella
When you talk about TV doctors, many people immediately think of Richard Chamberlain. However, doctors have always been a major feature of TV shows on this side of the Atlantic and to honor the men and women who monitor the health of our favorite fictional characters, here are the Best British TV Doctors.
Dr Finlay (Bill Simpson) in Dr Finlay’s Casebook. Set in the Scottish town of Tannochbrae, Dr Finlay’s Casebook was first broadcast 49 years ago and even at that time Dr Finlay was something of a throwback to simpler times. Despite his small town surroundings, he valiantly fought against all kinds of ills that included his nutty housekeeper and a pernicious rival.
Doc Martin (Martin Clunes) in Doc Martin. Martin Clunes is not behaving as...
- 7/19/2011
- by admin
Rufus Sewell (Zen). Co. PBS
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Kieran Kinsella
This week, PBS Masterpiece said goodbye to pre-World War II Britain and all that Agatha Christie has to offer, and instead transported us to modern day Italy. Any show set in Rome is bound to attract a certain number of viewers just because it is set in Rome and it is hard to be subjective as a reviewer, and critique the drama in the same way that you would if the show was set in Solihull or Lake Charles, Louisiana. I like Rome so even if Zen was awful I would probably have still watched it but in fact it was actually pretty good.
Rufus Sewell plays the Italian cop, who lives with his mom. He is doing his best to woo one of his colleagues, -a...
Click here to friend us on Facebook or click here to follow our new Twitter page.
Kieran Kinsella
This week, PBS Masterpiece said goodbye to pre-World War II Britain and all that Agatha Christie has to offer, and instead transported us to modern day Italy. Any show set in Rome is bound to attract a certain number of viewers just because it is set in Rome and it is hard to be subjective as a reviewer, and critique the drama in the same way that you would if the show was set in Solihull or Lake Charles, Louisiana. I like Rome so even if Zen was awful I would probably have still watched it but in fact it was actually pretty good.
Rufus Sewell plays the Italian cop, who lives with his mom. He is doing his best to woo one of his colleagues, -a...
- 7/18/2011
- by admin
Bradley Walsh co. ITV
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If tonight’s episode of Law and Order UK had been shown in America, NBC would have billed it as being “ripped from the headlines.” However, ITV resisted the temptation to do that even though the show was clearly based upon the recently resolved Casey Anthony trial in Florida. This episode told the tale of a girl called Kayla, who like Casey Anthony aka “Tot Mom”, either killed her child, allowed her child to be killed or just did a cover up of the fact that her child died due to unexplained circumstances. In real life Casey Anthony used the fact that she suffered childhood abuse as an excuse for her behavior and the killer in this show used the same excuse. Anthony was acquitted (after this episode was filmed) whereas Kayla got sent down.
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If tonight’s episode of Law and Order UK had been shown in America, NBC would have billed it as being “ripped from the headlines.” However, ITV resisted the temptation to do that even though the show was clearly based upon the recently resolved Casey Anthony trial in Florida. This episode told the tale of a girl called Kayla, who like Casey Anthony aka “Tot Mom”, either killed her child, allowed her child to be killed or just did a cover up of the fact that her child died due to unexplained circumstances. In real life Casey Anthony used the fact that she suffered childhood abuse as an excuse for her behavior and the killer in this show used the same excuse. Anthony was acquitted (after this episode was filmed) whereas Kayla got sent down.
- 7/17/2011
- by admin
The Hour. co. BBC America
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BBC America have revealed the day, the month and the hour at which The Hour will be shown. The drama is the BBC’s answer to AMC’s Mad Men and is co-produced by BBC One and the North American wing of the corporation. The first episode can be seen in the UK on Tuesday July 19 at 9.00 p.m. Romola Garai fans in the States will have to wait until 10 p.m. on Wednesday August 17 to see the Crimson Petal and the White star taking on her new role as fictional 1950s BBC producer Bel Rowley. Garai is joined in the cast by Dominic West, Anton Lesser and Ben Whishaw. The six episode show is based around the lives of journalists and TV producers as they compete with one...
Click here to friend us on Facebook or click here to follow our new Twitter page.
BBC America have revealed the day, the month and the hour at which The Hour will be shown. The drama is the BBC’s answer to AMC’s Mad Men and is co-produced by BBC One and the North American wing of the corporation. The first episode can be seen in the UK on Tuesday July 19 at 9.00 p.m. Romola Garai fans in the States will have to wait until 10 p.m. on Wednesday August 17 to see the Crimson Petal and the White star taking on her new role as fictional 1950s BBC producer Bel Rowley. Garai is joined in the cast by Dominic West, Anton Lesser and Ben Whishaw. The six episode show is based around the lives of journalists and TV producers as they compete with one...
- 7/16/2011
- by admin
John Barrowman in Torchwood Miracle Day. co. BBC
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N Conrad
Russell T Davies followed in the footsteps of Dalek creator Terry Nation when he decided to cash in his chips in the UK and try to market a Doctor Who spin-off in the USA. Things did not start very well for the Welshman as Fox decided to pass on the show. In hindsight, that may be a good thing considering all of the negative coverage that Rupert Murdoch and his empire have been receiving of late. In the absence of a major network, Davies turned to the least watched of the three “Premium” satellite TV networks, Starz. He decided to reset Torchwood (whatever that means) and many of the original cast were ditched in favor of American actors. The show debuted last week in...
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N Conrad
Russell T Davies followed in the footsteps of Dalek creator Terry Nation when he decided to cash in his chips in the UK and try to market a Doctor Who spin-off in the USA. Things did not start very well for the Welshman as Fox decided to pass on the show. In hindsight, that may be a good thing considering all of the negative coverage that Rupert Murdoch and his empire have been receiving of late. In the absence of a major network, Davies turned to the least watched of the three “Premium” satellite TV networks, Starz. He decided to reset Torchwood (whatever that means) and many of the original cast were ditched in favor of American actors. The show debuted last week in...
- 7/15/2011
- by admin
Owen McDonnell in Single Handed. Co. ITV
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B Van Heusen
Anyone looking for a mellow alternative to BBC’s high energy Torchwood: Miracle Day, will have enjoyed Single Handed on ITV. Owen McDonnell as the low key, laid back Jack Driscoll is the polar opposite of the other Jack that he now finds himself up against on Thursday nights.
In season two, episode one, Jack Driscoll had to deal with a young tearaway who the local community wanted to lynch for the apparent murder of an old drifter. Driscoll found himself caught between the angry mob who wanted the lad strung up, and the do-gooder who insisted that the boy was innocent. If Single Handed is true to life, then the West of Ireland is one place where common sense still has a role to play in police work.
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B Van Heusen
Anyone looking for a mellow alternative to BBC’s high energy Torchwood: Miracle Day, will have enjoyed Single Handed on ITV. Owen McDonnell as the low key, laid back Jack Driscoll is the polar opposite of the other Jack that he now finds himself up against on Thursday nights.
In season two, episode one, Jack Driscoll had to deal with a young tearaway who the local community wanted to lynch for the apparent murder of an old drifter. Driscoll found himself caught between the angry mob who wanted the lad strung up, and the do-gooder who insisted that the boy was innocent. If Single Handed is true to life, then the West of Ireland is one place where common sense still has a role to play in police work.
- 7/14/2011
- by admin
Clare Foy in The Night Watch. co.BBC
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N Conrad
BBC2′s The Night Watch was based on the novel of the same name by author Sarah Waters. The show like the book covered three time periods: 1941, 1944 and 1947. That is a lot to squeeze into one 90 minute long drama especially when you consider the fact that the story has four main characters each of whom have their own love troubles and problems to navigate.
Stylistically the show was a success. It seemed authentic, the soundtrack was pleasant but not invasive and the director managed to create a fairly intimate mood without resorting to lots of unflattering close ups. Three of the four main characters were gay which would not in of itself make a good drama were it set in modern times but during World War II,...
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N Conrad
BBC2′s The Night Watch was based on the novel of the same name by author Sarah Waters. The show like the book covered three time periods: 1941, 1944 and 1947. That is a lot to squeeze into one 90 minute long drama especially when you consider the fact that the story has four main characters each of whom have their own love troubles and problems to navigate.
Stylistically the show was a success. It seemed authentic, the soundtrack was pleasant but not invasive and the director managed to create a fairly intimate mood without resorting to lots of unflattering close ups. Three of the four main characters were gay which would not in of itself make a good drama were it set in modern times but during World War II,...
- 7/12/2011
- by admin
Steven Mackintosh in Inside Men. Co. BBC
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The BBC have announced plans for two exciting new dramas that are set to hit screens this winter: Great Expectations and Inside Men. The former, will feature X-Files star Gillian Anderson as the haggard Miss Havisham, Ray Winstone as Magwitch and Poirot star David Suchet as Jaggers. Anderson recently played another haggard Victorian woman in the Crimson Petal and the White and based on her performance in that show, she is ideally suited to take on the part of Miss Havisham. Suchet meanwhile is becoming a regular feature at the BBC studios since he is currently wrapping up work on the legal drama Undisclosed which also stars Philip Glenister (Gene Hunt). Great Expectations is set to air just before Christmas.
Meanwhile, recent Best British TV interviewee Warren Brown...
Click here to friend us on Facebook or click here to follow our new Twitter page.
The BBC have announced plans for two exciting new dramas that are set to hit screens this winter: Great Expectations and Inside Men. The former, will feature X-Files star Gillian Anderson as the haggard Miss Havisham, Ray Winstone as Magwitch and Poirot star David Suchet as Jaggers. Anderson recently played another haggard Victorian woman in the Crimson Petal and the White and based on her performance in that show, she is ideally suited to take on the part of Miss Havisham. Suchet meanwhile is becoming a regular feature at the BBC studios since he is currently wrapping up work on the legal drama Undisclosed which also stars Philip Glenister (Gene Hunt). Great Expectations is set to air just before Christmas.
Meanwhile, recent Best British TV interviewee Warren Brown...
- 7/11/2011
- by admin
Law and Order UK. co ITV
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Kieran Kinsella
Season 5 of ITV’s Law and Order UK got off to a good start with a strong first episode that didn’t exact fill one with confidence in the National Health Service. Veteran actor James Fox took on the role of a pill popping doctor with a habit of making deadly mistakes. Fox had very little onscreen time as most of the episode focused on the red herring suspect but anyone who is familiar with Law and Order should realize that the cops never nail the right guy at the beginning of the show.
Peter Davison made his much anticipated debut tonight as the senior statesman of the prosecution. It seems like only yesterday that people were wondering if Davison was too young to take on the role of Doctor Who.
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Kieran Kinsella
Season 5 of ITV’s Law and Order UK got off to a good start with a strong first episode that didn’t exact fill one with confidence in the National Health Service. Veteran actor James Fox took on the role of a pill popping doctor with a habit of making deadly mistakes. Fox had very little onscreen time as most of the episode focused on the red herring suspect but anyone who is familiar with Law and Order should realize that the cops never nail the right guy at the beginning of the show.
Peter Davison made his much anticipated debut tonight as the senior statesman of the prosecution. It seems like only yesterday that people were wondering if Davison was too young to take on the role of Doctor Who.
- 7/10/2011
- by admin
Robin Ellis and the cast of Poldark. co. BBC
Fans of British TV remember Robin Ellis as the title character in the classic costume drama series Poldark. In recent years, the actor has also turned his attention to blogging and cooking. Kieran Kinsella recently had the opportunity to speak with Robin and began by asking him about his memorable appearance in a famous sitcom.
You had a major role in the first ever episode of the British comedy classic Fawlty Towers. What was that experience like and did you have any idea that the show would become such a hit?
“The episode I was in was actually the pilot episode and it was filmed six months before the rest of the show so it was a bit surprising that it became a huge hit. Obviously, John Cleese was very well known from Monty Python and was almost a national icon even then.
Fans of British TV remember Robin Ellis as the title character in the classic costume drama series Poldark. In recent years, the actor has also turned his attention to blogging and cooking. Kieran Kinsella recently had the opportunity to speak with Robin and began by asking him about his memorable appearance in a famous sitcom.
You had a major role in the first ever episode of the British comedy classic Fawlty Towers. What was that experience like and did you have any idea that the show would become such a hit?
“The episode I was in was actually the pilot episode and it was filmed six months before the rest of the show so it was a bit surprising that it became a huge hit. Obviously, John Cleese was very well known from Monty Python and was almost a national icon even then.
- 7/8/2011
- by admin
When it comes to the story of the eight-year-old boy king, the classic tale never gets old, no matter how many versions are made. The Curse of King Tutankhamen's Tomb whisks you off to November 1922, where 48-year-old struggling archaeologist Howard Carter (Robin Ellis), who has already spent six years at an Egyptian dig in the Valley of Kings, is desperate to find something. Fortune, it seems at the beginning, blesses him when he discovers the tomb of Tutankhamen, one of Egypt’s youngest pharaohs. However, the rumours of an ancient curse, foreshadowing grief and disaster, threaten to mar his triumph...
The storyline is obviously good and, once you read the plot synopsis, lures you into watching it. However, if you’re really into Ancient Egyptians, then you might be in for a disappointed evening after watching this DVD.
The opening doesn’t live up to the précis, and fails to hook you in immediately.
The storyline is obviously good and, once you read the plot synopsis, lures you into watching it. However, if you’re really into Ancient Egyptians, then you might be in for a disappointed evening after watching this DVD.
The opening doesn’t live up to the précis, and fails to hook you in immediately.
- 2/3/2011
- Shadowlocked
This week sees more new film and TV releases on Blu-ray and DVD. Among the ones we’re more interested in this week are The 36th Chamber of Shaolin, Ponyo, The Neverending Story, the Syfy miniseries Alice , Kurt Russell in Elvis, and the original Clash of the Titans (with Sir Laurence Olivier, pictured above).
Check out all the new releases below.
Film
Bitch Slap (Unrated) ~ Debbie Lee Carrington, Michael Hurst, Kevin Sorbo (DVD)
Clash of the Titans ~ Laurence Olivier, Harry Hamlin, Maggie Smith (Blu-ray and DVD)
Cold Souls ~ Paul Giamatti, Boris Leskin (Blu-ray and DVD)
Curious George 2: Follow That Monkey ~ Curious George (DVD)
Gentlemen Broncos ~ Jermaine Clement, Sam Rockwell (Blu-ray and DVD)
Ninja ~ Scott Adkins (Blu-ray and DVD)
Poltergeist: The Legacy Season 2 ~ Derek De Lint, Patrick Fitzgerald (DVD)
Ponyo (Two-Disc Edition) ~ Cate Blanchett, Liam Neeson (Blu-ray and DVD)
Return To The 36th Chamber ~ Gordon Liu (DVD – 2010)
The 36th Chamber of Shaolin...
Check out all the new releases below.
Film
Bitch Slap (Unrated) ~ Debbie Lee Carrington, Michael Hurst, Kevin Sorbo (DVD)
Clash of the Titans ~ Laurence Olivier, Harry Hamlin, Maggie Smith (Blu-ray and DVD)
Cold Souls ~ Paul Giamatti, Boris Leskin (Blu-ray and DVD)
Curious George 2: Follow That Monkey ~ Curious George (DVD)
Gentlemen Broncos ~ Jermaine Clement, Sam Rockwell (Blu-ray and DVD)
Ninja ~ Scott Adkins (Blu-ray and DVD)
Poltergeist: The Legacy Season 2 ~ Derek De Lint, Patrick Fitzgerald (DVD)
Ponyo (Two-Disc Edition) ~ Cate Blanchett, Liam Neeson (Blu-ray and DVD)
Return To The 36th Chamber ~ Gordon Liu (DVD – 2010)
The 36th Chamber of Shaolin...
- 3/3/2010
- by Joe Gillis
- The Flickcast
In 1975, America was already in love with Masterpiece Theater productions, but when Poldark hit television screens there was an instant historical drama heartthrob to add to the program.s many excellent virtues. Actor Robin Ellis.s smouldering, intense portrayal of Capt. Ross Poldark was just one reason viewers tuned in to watch and were caught in the multi faceted and sweeping drama. Series 1 of this beloved story is now available on DVD from Acorn Media. Captain Ross Poldark (Ellis) returns to Cornwall after the American Revolution, scarred in both body and spirits by the war and his escape from a French prisoner of war camp. Once home he finds that his father has died leaving the estate in a...
- 3/2/2010
- by June L.
- Monsters and Critics
DVD Playhouse—February 2010
By
Allen Gardner
Hunger (Criterion) Harrowing true story of imprisoned Ira member Bobby Sands (Michael Fassbender) and his 1981 hunger strike protesting the British government’s refusal to recognize him, and other Ira members as political prisoners. Director Steve McQueen delivers the story with true filmmaking panache, mixing startling imagery that blends both stunning beauty and stomach-churning horror. Fassbender is absolutely brilliant in the lead. Not for the faint-of-heart, but not to be missed or, particularly, ignored. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Interviews with McQueen and Fassbender; Short documentary; 1981 episode of BBC series “Panorama” that covers the Ira hunger strike; Trailer. Widescreen. DTS-hd audio on Blu-ray.
Adam (20th Century Fox) Quirky romantic comedy about an eccentric, borderline Asperger’s Syndrome, astronomy buff (Hugh Dancy) who is drawn out of his self-imposed shell by a beautiful and sympathetic neighbor (Rose Byrne). Charming film with engaging performances by the two leads,...
By
Allen Gardner
Hunger (Criterion) Harrowing true story of imprisoned Ira member Bobby Sands (Michael Fassbender) and his 1981 hunger strike protesting the British government’s refusal to recognize him, and other Ira members as political prisoners. Director Steve McQueen delivers the story with true filmmaking panache, mixing startling imagery that blends both stunning beauty and stomach-churning horror. Fassbender is absolutely brilliant in the lead. Not for the faint-of-heart, but not to be missed or, particularly, ignored. Also available on Blu-ray disc. Bonuses: Interviews with McQueen and Fassbender; Short documentary; 1981 episode of BBC series “Panorama” that covers the Ira hunger strike; Trailer. Widescreen. DTS-hd audio on Blu-ray.
Adam (20th Century Fox) Quirky romantic comedy about an eccentric, borderline Asperger’s Syndrome, astronomy buff (Hugh Dancy) who is drawn out of his self-imposed shell by a beautiful and sympathetic neighbor (Rose Byrne). Charming film with engaging performances by the two leads,...
- 2/15/2010
- by The Hollywood Interview.com
- The Hollywood Interview
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