Change Your Image
Nuala S
Reviews
Felicity (1998)
Yawn.
No matter how hard I try, I cannot get into this show. The cast are, in general, quite talented and appear to understand their characters. Unfortunately, their characters are, well, boring. I'd prefer to watch a group of my own friends run around in a field for an hour. At least that may entertain me for more than five seconds.
I mentioned earlier that the actors are quite talented, but I hasten to add that none are great shining lights, good enough to break through the severe repetition of each episode. The quirky moments the characters enter or find themselves embroiled in simply do not work. In a quality youth-orientated show, such as that gem "Press Gang" (although I'm aware it's ridiculous to compare this TV show with most of today's attempts at that genre), the actors have the ability and the instinctive comic flair to make these silly moments work. The actors on Felicity take themselves too seriously, as though they're afraid they won't be nominated for an Emmy if they crack a smile. Instead it's a wrinkle of the nose and a roll of the eyes. You can tell that these guys are ultra mature.
Worst of all perhaps are Felicity's 'reflective' moments. The same thing, week in, week out, sometimes more than once an episode: Felicity leaves the college (or is it the halls of residence?), the film is slowed. A boring acoustic guitar/female singer number is played over the top. This is sickening stuff. It seems that life only runs on normal time inside the walls of the college or the dorms. The rest of the city must have broken watches.
As Colin Matthews of 'Press Gang' would put it: "Boredom City"
The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996)
The greatest Disney of all!
There can be no denying that Walt Disney studios have produced many good animated films, especially in the last decade, but, without a doubt, The Hunchback of Notre Dame is the best. It deals with adult themes of love, insanity, isolation, desire and corruption, all in a way that still gives the viewer - children and adults alike - an enjoyable viewing experience.
The characters are all wonderfully voiced and virtually faultless in development and style. Best of all, though, is the music, composed by Alan Menken and sung by the characters of the film. The running theme of the bells of Notre Dame in the music is a great device, and you will have the songs in your head for days.
Very highly recommended, 10/10!
Just Shoot Me! (1997)
Unmissable!
When I first watched this show, I must admit, it did not much appeal to me. But once the vibrant characters are etched in your mind, Just Shoot Me is hilarious, unmissable viewing. Not since Newsradio has a sitcom been so witty, and at the same time so outrageous in it's comedy style as Just Shoot Me. A highlight episode (the one that really won me over) features Mark Hammil, who, surprisingly becomes very enthusiastic to recieve the friendship of Finch, Blush magazine's Star Wars geek. Overall, the show is highly recommended!
Screen Two: Persuasion (1995)
The best of the Austens
Of all the recent Jane Austen adaptations, this is the most honest and tender. Amanda Root is a wonderfully modest Anne, and Ciarin Hinds a great hero as Captain Wentworth. Anne and Wentworth's constant love is explored with patience and reserve, whilst keeping the film true to the novel. Though not as bright and colourful as Sense and Sensibility, and certainly without the light comedy of Emma, this film has virtue elsewhere. A gem, and an absolute must-see for romantics and lovers of period drama alike.