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Tipping Point Australia (2023)
Somewhat different to the UK version
The best aspect of the Australian version is the host, Todd Woodbridge. Instead of sticking to the banal format of his UK counterpart, Todd connects with his contestants, getting natural reactions and encouraging interaction with members of the audience. He's a natural before the cameras, somewhat similar to the legendary Bradley Walsh on the UK version of 'The Chase'.
In some ways, the audience, present only in the UK version of the show, is a negative. The machine appears to be a dumbed down version of the original. Look at the front top row and you'll see that the tokens are partially over the edge. In the UK show, the top front tokens do not protrude past the edge.
Personally I enjoy both versions while working on the computer. Neither measure up to the original version of 'The Chase' but they are a pleasant background amusement.
The Blue Lamp (1950)
Snapshot of postwar London
Startlingly realistic, visually stunning, beautifully photographed, this must have given birth to Geoff McQueen's 'Woodentop' before that classic look at coppers on the beat led to the birth of 'The Bill'. It's an uncompromising story of the experienced man puppy-walking the new recruit on his beat and getting involved in a robbery gone wrong. No other police-procedural movie has ever equaled the visual power of the chase following the shooting of the main character. Use of the wide angle lens in such chases seems to have disappeared from the screen this century. I watch this movie at least once a year for inspiration.
Rise and Shine (1941)
Hilarious comedy with great music
Although Jack Oakie gets top billing, he doesn't do much. What makes this movie is the cracking script, great cast and terrific music. I'd been looking for one particular song for decades and this is the movie in which George Murphy puts it over so well. There are some dead spots mid-stream but overall, this is guaranteed to cheer you up.
The Repair Shop (2017)
Great group of people, pity about the editing
The simple premise of repairing items for members of the public took a while to catch on. The craftspeople are all highly skilled and likable, as is the host. Due perhaps to covid, interest in the show increased exponentially. Originally the content concentrated on the repair of the item. Later series have switched to the owner and their reaction once the item is returned. The editing has become sloppy with sequences repeated. Perhaps there should be two versions of each episode, one for those who thrive on the actual repair and for others who watch only for the human drama.
His Royal Highness (1932)
Classic Aussie comedy performance
George Wallace was a comedy genius and this otherwise unexceptional movie shows him portraying the ordinary timeless Aussie bloke as only he could. Other comedians down the decades would attempt to copy George's style but none have put it over so naturally. He could sing, dance, write and direct and often did the lot on later movies. Only the British really understand our humour and this movie was hugely popular over there.
A Bride for Henry (1937)
Concise and sophisticated comedy
Another Youtube discovery, an amusing, witty and well made shortie. I enjoyed this more than any number of more elaborate, expensive and star-studded extravaganzas of the 1930s. Fine acting performances and well-directed, recommended if you need a laugh.
Home Town (2016)
Excellent editing and enjoyable most of the time
This show has to be the best-edited reno show on TV. It gave me an interest in Laurel. That in turn explained the reason for the incredibly low cost of properties. It's subject to tornadoes, one of which hit the town in 2019. The amazing amount of work done, for example with 100K, must have seen many folk flocking to the town. I particularly enjoy the woodworking carried out in what I presume is the old railroad depot. Ben is a likable fella who I'd be happy to have as a neighbour. Erin, well, she's a good designer, but bossy and reminds me of my partner who luckily will never read this review!
Garage Gold (2013)
Simple show, simple premise, friendly cast
Team leader scores garage (or shed) contents in return for makeover. It's a simple show with fairly accurate valuations. Generally likable team who get on with the job without any over-the-top performances. It's enjoyable and suitable for all ages. Watch it between a couple of heavy dramas and you'll find it a relaxing break.
Chicago Fire (2012)
When it's good, it's very good
An excellent cast, let down occasionally by lackluster scripts. Brilliant episodes are usually followed by mediocre ones, usually centered around personnel problems and the like. Eamonn Walker is one of my favourite actors who first came to prominence in the classic British police procedural series, THE BILL. If you've never seen it, check out Eamonn's episodes in which his personality practically leaps from the screen.
You Rang, M'Lord? (1988)
Great cast, sure to become a future classic
The DVD set arrived a decade ago and lockdown finally gave us a chance to open it. As soon as I spotted Perry Benson, I was struck by his similarity in appearance to that famous schoolboy of fiction, Billy Bunter. It wasn't until the final episode ran through that the in-joke became apparent. Perry was reading a copy of THE MAGNET (the storypaper in which Billy Bunter's adventures appeared) at the breakfast table!
We'd watched 'Upstairs, Downstairs' prior and found this an amusing contrast. 'Jeeves and Wooster' fans will probably find much to enjoy within the series as well. Recommended for all ages.
Hoosier Schoolboy (1937)
Intelligent and thoughtful little movie
This popped up on Youtube, a movie I'd never heard of. I hadn't watched a Mickey Rooney movie in years, back in the days when I was addicted to his Andy Hardy series. The sad story of his shell-shocked father during a time before PTSD was discussed was probably a brave move on the part of the production company. There are several other stories in this short film that have been covered by other reviewers, so do yourself a favour and watch it.
The Green Hornet (1940)
Intelligent script, believable hero, good acting performances
This was my first taste of serials in several decades. Having never seen or heard other versions of 'The Green Hornet', I was impressed with the story and scripts, while the acting performances were measured and believable. My partner (who'd never seen a serial) managed to sit through the entire story, and she's not easily impressed. When watching serials one has to make allowances for the duplicate material. Information on this version of 'Black Beauty' is difficult to find. I'm surprised no one has come up with one in either real life or model form. Recommended to all; now I must watch the sequel.
Salvage Hunters: The Restorers (2018)
Specialist restorers show their talents
This spin-off from 'Salvage Hunters' takes what is fleetingly shown in the latter and shows the talents of Drew's team of restorers in their workshops. Each program shows two or more projects, some requiring the expertise of several specialists to put back into shape. Predominantly furniture-orientated so don't expect to see many other collectable items. Beautifully photographed and slickly edited, each episode will have you toasting the talent of those who keep Drew in business.
Salvage Hunters: Classic Cars (2018)
Interesting old-time specialist auto craftsmen
Among the best everyday car restoration shows on the planet, you meet the seller, follow through with the Drew's' bargaining and Paul's plan to sort out and sell the finished vehicle. Along the way you meet some of the UK's best specialist repairers, often operating from backyard sheds. Initially some purchases look like money pits but judicious use of contacts around Britain and personal knowhow see a profit realised, often due to putting the vehicles on display at club meetings. The buyer in turn is shown inspecting the vehicle and haggling before settlement is reached. Superlative photography and editing make each show a joy to watch.
Cuffs (2015)
Updated version of "The Bill"; yes, indeed!
It took me a couple of episodes to get into this series. It was the great characters and corresponding acting performances which won me over. By the time the final episode arrived it had become a "must watch" series, just as "The Bill" had in the 1990s. I was both amazed and shocked to read that the BBC had axed it! One has to ask "why?" and the answer has to be adverse reactions from those above in a time when the Powers that run the BBC are living in fear of being seen to support minority groups within the upper echelons of Society. Although they like to display political correctness on the surface, in reality, they are no different to the great majority of viewers.
Burn 'Em Up Barnes (1934)
Great action, good script, action aplenty!
This serial recently screened on Sydney TV station SBS. The cast list included Frankie Darro, who would have been about 16 years of age at the time. I wasn't expecting a lot but I was surprised at thoroughly enjoying every episode.
The action is pretty much non-stop and young Frankie is nothing short of sensational as "Bobbie Riley". The stunts he does (did he do all of his stunts?) left this viewer breathless. Up and down fire escapes, into and out of automobiles, twisting and diving while being pursued by numerous villains; the list could go on and on.
There is also a serial within the serial, with a studio employing the hero, Jack Mulhall, as "Burn'em up Barnes", to do their stunts when he's not otherwise engaged. The greater part of the serial seems to have been filmed on location which is certainly an attraction for local history buffs. As others mention, another appealing aspect are the various autos, trucks, planes and motorcycles inhabiting the landscape.
The script I thought was well written and good direction kept the story moving along at lightning pace. In fact I'd find more enjoyment watching a repeat of this serial rather than viewing any of the current dreary lineup of so-called movie blockbusters.
Bring on "The Phantom Empire"!
Eggheads (2003)
Unmissable entertainment!
This is a show we never miss; it provides both entertainment and a degree of enlightening knowledge.
Sure, there are irritating aspects in the annoying blue set and occasional robot-like host Jeremy Vine. Currently (January 2013) we are viewing 2009 episodes in Australia and Dermot Murnaghan is a far better host. He shows far more empathy for both the challengers and the Eggheads and seems not bound to a fixed script.
The Eggheads themselves are pretty much a cross section of humanity. Chris, down to earth, shooting straight from the shoulder; Daphne, always cheerful, but with a memory like a steel trap; CJ, playing a part totally unlike his real self; Barry, a bit of a mystery with what often appears to be a forced smile; Kevin, similar to but not as forceful as Chris and finally, Judith, who also has a mighty memory but seems off her game in these 2009 episodes.
Overall, this is a show worth watching and long may it continue to grace our screens.
Bargain Hunt (2000)
Have you all had a good time? Yes, Tim!
For those who've never seen BARGAIN HUNT, it consists of two teams, the "red" and the "blue", each of two people, each given an amount of cash, 200 pounds early on, later increased to 300 pounds, to spend at collectors' fairs, antique centres and similar markets on three items of choice, with a one-hour time limit. Each team is provided with an "expert" in the form of an antique dealer or auctioneer who can advise on possible purchases. Whether or not their advice is taken, is up to the teams. Later the items will be sold at auction and profits if any go to the teams. The two experts each buy an item, which will be offered to the two teams as "swaps", if they wish to swap. To simplify things, commissions and other auction fees aren't taken into account.
Reality shows come and go, but BARGAIN HUNT rolls on and on. This is due in no small part to the welcome presence of England's most amiable host, Tim Wonnacott.
The original host for BH was the effervescent David Dickinson who polarized viewers; they either loved or hated him. I found David both interesting and entertaining, despite what other people have written about him here and elsewhere. However, the arrival of Tim Wonnacott brought a more cheerful and learned presence. Tim's extensive knowledge of the "trade", endearing manner and ability to get along with almost everybody makes for an entertaining and informative 45 minutes. No two shows are quite the same, although the same background filler material may be apparent from multi-used locations. Several episodes will be filmed at one spot with purchased items going through the same auction.
This reviewer is currently watching 2006 episodes in Australia so the show's format may have changed in later series. Tim often visits stately homes or other interesting landmarks in the area. He introduces the viewer to choice items and talks of their history. For me, this is the highpoint of each show. Occasionally he reveals bargains he's picked up, or items he's spotted in the auction. You'll see the results of his "auction finds" when they are auctioned as well as the items from the two teams. Occasionally he puts items in the auction with any profit going to charity.
The show does well in gathering a cross section of society, with parent/child, co-workers and entire families making up the teams. Rarely do the teams consist of people with any genuine knowledge of collectables. So it may seem strange that it's not unusual for them to ignore the experts. Often they buy items without having the good manners to at least show their expert until the deed is done! This isn't to say the experts are right all the time. Often they aren't, far from it. This all goes to make each show good fun. You never know what to expect.
The experts are often more interesting and entertaining than the team contestants. With hundreds of episodes watched, these experts and auctioneers, together with Tim's expertise, have become my main reasons for watching. Originally it was to see the collectables but in reality, one tires of seeing contestants buying the same old things: blue and white plates, timber boxes, cut glass decanters, "aged" kitchenalia made last week and boxed sets of plated spoons which no one wants! It's not unusual to see experts and auctioneers playing dual roles. BARGAIN HUNT is like a real life version of MIDSOMER MURDERS on some levels. In one episode Philip Serrell or Elizabeth Talbot will be the auctioneer; five episodes later they'll pop up as an expert. Philip And Elizabeth are my favorites, both having distinctively interesting personalities.
All up, BARGAIN HUNT scores my vote as the best slice of English reality television.
Hoarders (2009)
Compulsive and sometimes scary
Although I've one seen one episode, "Patty and Bill", this show will have me watching from now on, if I don't buy the DVDs first. Reality shows aren't my thing usually, but the situations shown here seem real enough and I really felt for the participants and more so, for their families.
There's a lot compressed into "Patty and Bill", and the crew certainly put together something both engrossing and scary. The matter of fact way the team carried out the job to clean out the properties, with interruptions from Patty and Bill, must sure have taken a lot out of them. Of all those shown, I felt the most for Bill's daughter with her beautifully clean and tidy room amid what seemed like a builder's wreckers yard.
As someone who's helped to similarly clean out properties though not to such a necessary degree of size and in such a short time, I salute all concerned. What they achieved in three days seemed amazing, despite the final results not bringing satisfactory conclusions in either case.
All Star Golf (1957)
Trail-blazing sports series
"Top Pro Golf" aired on Australian television in the early 1960s, and introduced me to the wonderful world of golf.
From what I can remember, it was a highly polished series with excellent camera work and close interaction between the host and the players.
This was where I first saw the brilliant play of Gary Player and Arnold Palmer, as they blasted their way round a succession of US courses.
Somewhere, someone must have prints of episodes, so one day I hope to once again admire my golfing heroes in their early youth.
There were two other golf shows airing at around the same time, "Shell's Wonderful World of Golf" and "World Championship Golf", but this was for me the pick of the three.
Palmy Days (1931)
Dynamic, timeless entertainment
The other more knowledgeable reviewers have given comprehensive overviews of this movie so I'll stick to giving reasons for why I rate this as one of my favourite American musicals of all time.
Charlotte Greenwood, she of the L O N G legs and faultless timing. This is one of three movies in which Miss Greenwood, for me anyway, made those movies worth watching time and time again, the others being "Springtime in the Rockies" and "The Gang's All Here". Her appearances are a joy to behold; she never puts a foot (or leg) wrong, and delivers lines as only she can. Wow, what a gal!
The musical numbers. Yes, there are only three of 'em, but what great numbers. The best is "Bend Down, Sister", consisting of a magical song I've whistled my way through at least a couple of times every week for the past 40 years.
Eddie Cantor. A unique talent, along the lines of Al Jolson. I remember Eddie in the early days of television; he could always deliver a song which would keep me transfixed, unlike most of the other singers appearing on television at the time. When I finally caught up with his early musicals in the 1960s, it was a revelation.
Here's to you, Eddie, Charlotte and of course, The Master, Busby Berkeley!
Em & Me (2004)
Quirky feel-good entertainment
It's been decades since I last saw Alan Young; from "The Time Machine" and of course, Wilbur in "Mr Ed". I hope I'm as fit and healthy as he looks at 85 in this made for TV movie from 2004.
This can probably be described as a "road movie" or perhaps "coming of age" movie. If we live long enough, many of us will find ourselves in a similar situation to Ernie, who's one wish in life is to be reunited with his beloved Emily. So he sets off for her grave site, meeting people and changing lives for the better on the way.
It's been done before, of course. I thought the script was quirky and more in the European style. Instead of the tired old clichés, Ernie would often utter something completely unexpected.
I rate this a 9 for entertainment value. It's done on a shoestring budget but who cares? If a movie leaves you feeling better than when the opening credits rolled, it's done its job well. Recommended for the young at heart, but not the young and brain dead!
The Outer Limits: The Message (1995)
Profound and humbling episode
Two loners within a large medical facility, one a woman, Jennifer, with a then-revolutionary hearing implant, the other, Robert, a discredited astrophysicist working as a janitor, come together and carry out a lifesaving event no one in their time will ever hear of.
Jennifer's mundane and unimaginative husband thinks she has mental problems while Robert's downfall from his job was apparently due to others seeing him as mentally unbalanced.
It's a simple but moving story, a brilliant script, with a beautiful climax which probably brings many "Outer Limits" fans to their feet with a "Yeah, you did it!".
This is one of my favorite "Outer Limits" episodes from the more than 200 produced. It's right up there with "The Galaxy Being" from the original series.
The Lone Gunmen (2001)
Classic for future generations
Like a lot of other viewers no doubt, I've recently finished watching the series on DVD. And like those viewers, I found the XF 'Jump the Shark' episode less than satisfactory as a way of winding up the loose ends. Sure, it was better than no attempt at a resolution, but so far as I'm concerned, our three heroes are still 'out there' protecting the rest of us from the forces of evil! What I'd like to see is an attempt made at gathering all 'Lone Gunmen' footage from 'The X-Files' and working said footage into an extra special DVD release. I have to wonder if maybe someone 'out there' has already made the attempt.
What really bugged me about the final scene was the small turnout at the graveside. At least Scully put in an appearance. It's so long since I watched 'The X-Files' that I've forgotten what Mulder was up to at the time, and Reyes and Doggett just didn't cut it for me. Surely Mulder would have been at the graveside?
Cutting back to some general observations, I go along with the common view here that the show improved as it moved into the later episodes. The cast worked well together, and the 'Jimmy' character really added something to the mix as the scripts improved.
A fine series, for those with a genuine sense of the absurd. I love it!
A Fine Romance (1981)
Subtle, sweet, endearingly funny English comedy series
This is one of those TV series you remember fondly from earlier days, due to its two stars and the gentle humour which honestly reflects the actions of two awkward people, each looking for companionship and never expecting to find it. Mike and Laura are made for each other in the eyes of their friends; it really is that obvious, but not to themselves, of course.
Viewers of 'As Time Goes By' may find the show less fun. Perhaps that's due to the late 70s and early 80s being a strange period, especially for those of us who managed to survive it without any scars! I've seen ATGB from beginning to end a number of times and am sure it was partly done as Judi's tribute to Michael. He's one of my three favourite actors, right up there with James Bolam and Alun Armstrong.
Some people have commented on the shortness of the series, but it was and still is common practice in England to produce seasons of less than 10 episodes per year, in order to maintain quality control over the content.