Reviews (2)

OH...WHAT A WEB WE WEAVE...
Based upon Catherine Cookson's best-selling novel of the same name, this is a handsome adaptation that beautifully showcases the book. At the center of the film is a strong, independent woman, modern for her time, England in the nineteenth century.

Bridget Mordaunt is a wealthy young woman with a mind of her own and a heart of gold. Intelligent, practical, and fair, she is a no nonsense business woman who has a soft spot for Joe Skinner, a working class, honorable, young man who has broken away from his lazy, trashy family. He works in the factory that Bridget inherited from her deceased father who taught her the business. Unfortunately, Joe Skinner is in love with another young woman, Lilly, a factory worker who has been wronged by Lionel Filmore, the profligate scion of an impoverished member of the gentry. Joe marries Lilly, vowing always to protect her good name and knowing that the child she carries is not his.

Bridget's cousin, Victoria, who lives with her and whom she supports, is in love with Lionel, who mistakenly believes Victoria to be the factory heiress. On the day that Victoria expects their engagement to be announced, Lionel discovers that Bridget, and not Victoria, is the heiress. As this threatens to destroy the future that Victoria is seeing with rose colored glasses, Bridget steps in and makes a business deal with Lionel, not knowing just how despicable a blackguard Lionel really is, thinking that by doing do she is ensuring Victoria's happiness.

When the disparate worlds of the Skinners and Filmores collide one day, it leaves Joe accused of a murder he did not commit. What happens, as a result, will change the lives of all involved, as that murder acts as a catalyst for a series of events and revelations that will leave none concerned unscathed. No matter what happens, however, Bridget is at the core of this film.

This is a film worth seeing if one is interested in period pieces, the novels of Catherine Cookson, or a simply entertaining film with a first rate cast.

another fine catherine cookson adaption
I really enjoy Catherine Cookson's novels...and I've seen almost all the movie adaptions done for some of them. You get romance, intrigue, life struggles, and class warfare that seems to work out perfectly in the end. If you enjoy this one you shouls also check out "The Dwelling PLace" and "The Glass Virgin" ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Romantic, thrilling period piece.....top notch drama!
This is a splendid dramatic adaptation based on the Catherine Cookson novel. It stars handsome Jack Davenport (The Talented Mr. Ripley) as a poor carpenter who works as a servant for a wealthy family and becomes the love interest of his boss' daughter (played by Juliet Aubrey - "Middlemarch"). It also stars Justine Waddell (lately of "Mansfield Park" and BBC's "Great Expectations"). It explores issues of class, family vs. personal obligations, and love vs. duty. This is one of Ms. Cookson's best work! I highly recommend it - great acting, production values and is very satisfying and enjoyable! ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Typical excellence - and one extra feature
A painter dies mysteriously, and various interests including his father, his erstwhile model and a mysterious rich man all seem to have something to do with it. Typically excellent fare from the Morse team, with the great John Thaw (a national resource, and his death from cancer was a dreadful loss) in typically grumpy and expressive form as Morse, and gorgeous, sunlit English landscapes - in Morse's England it practically never rains (not that I mind). But I hope you don't mind my saying that it is something else that makes this one episode absolutely unforgettable for me: the mysterious model - a single mother living a life of squalor in one of Morse's few genuine slum dwellings - is Nicola Cowper, a little-known English actress who is probably the most beautiful thing I have ever seen in my life. She simply burns on the screen like a flame. One does not wonder that one character is troubled by her almost to his death, and that another is willing to pay for her favours. But even if you do not share my taste for small, exquisite, intense women, you will still not regret buying this episode. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

perversion in high places
This story covers a multitude of sins, as it deals with sexual abuse of children, corporate greed, blackmail, and homosexuality among other things. The plot involves an intersection of issues related to possible environmental hazards, corporate efforts to suppress information regarding those hazards, and the attempts of those who have been victimized by sexual abuse to take revenge against the perpetrator. All these issues surface only after Morse investigates the death of a professor, a death which
ironically is attributed to natural causes (a heart attack). Morse once more demonstrates the "thinking man" approach to detection, reaching conclusions based upon analysis of clues (childhood photographs) which might be overlooked by less sagacious investigators. The performances are first rate, and the manner in which the story unfolds maintains interest throughout. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

WHY is this series not on DVD?
I want to echo other reviewers and say that "Cracker" is arguably the best mystery series ever produced. It is a crime that the entire series is not available on DVD (and yet "Father Ted" is? The mind BOGGLES!!).

The second greatest TV series ever
If there ever was a show that combined drama, wit, off-color humor, and powerful performances, "Cracker" would have to be it. This is (after "Blackadder II") easily my second favorite television program, and "To Be A Somebody" is without question the best episode of it.

The plot? Albie Kinsella (Robert Carlyle) is upset over the death of his father. He shaves his head and begins a homicidal rampage, in which he intends to avenge the victims of the very real Hillsborough soccer disaster of '89 (of which series creator McGovern was a witness). He kills a Pakistani store clerk (Badi Uzzaman), the criminologist (Glyn Grain) in charge of the investigation of the former murder, and D.C.I. David Billborough (Christopher Eccleston). At the end he is captured, and goes one on one with Fitz.

Robbie Coltrane's Fitz is arguably the best TV character ever dreamed up; a drinker, smoker, womanizer, and compulsive gambler, he is nonetheless a brilliant psychologist who is frequently called by the police to help in investigations. As if he weren't having enough personal problems of his own; his wife, Judith (the superb Barbara Flynn), is embittered and angered by Fitz's actions and continually threatens to leave him. Coltrane combines cool wit, a superb voice-acting talent, and simple genius to deal with the criminals. Coltrane - easily my favorite actor - handles the role impossibly well.

Carlyle, as Albie, creates a killer that is somewhat sympathetic - he is attempting to avenge the deaths of his friends and follow football fans, and provide some sort of income for his wife (Tracy Gillman) and child. He is quite obviously a deranged maniac, a football hooligan (he continues to chant "L-I-V-E-R-P-Double-O L Liverpool MC" throughout the episode), and he gains an increasing confidence in himself as he goes (he is snivelling and crying after he kills the shop keeper, but he doesn't blink an eye concerning his other two killings), until the final climactic episode - he is attempting to kill a freelance journalist for some reason, and makes a bomb - but he is apprehended at soccer match by the seemingly deranged DS Beck (Lorcan Cranitch), who is even more over the edge after the murder of Billboroug, and beaten to the edge of the death. Carlyle's performance is near-perfect - and his final confrontation with Fitz is one of the best scenes of television ever filmed.

The ending I won't give away, but let me just say this much: You won't expect it, and it's certainly not a happy one.

Screenwriting at its best
Although produced for the English television studio Granada, Cracker features the talents of some of the best Celtic talent currently gracing the screen. Much of the success of the Cracker series is squarely attributable to the screen presence of the extraordinary Robbie Coltrane. Since his debut to international audiences in the Bob Hoskins vehicle MONA LISA, Coltrane has evolved from a serio-comic actor to one of Britain's most charismatic leading men. In general the success of the series is due to his consummate abilities as an actor. In TO BE A SOMEBODY he is partnered with a fellow Scottish compatriot, Robert Carlyle who is most familiar to audiences as the demented BEGSBY in the smash hit TRAINSPOTTING. For once Coltrane has to take a back seat. This is without a doubt Robert Carlyle's show. There are few better examples of the craft of acting as Mr. Carlyle exhibits here, a veritable clinic. Christopher Eccleston who made his feature screen debut in LET HIM HAVE IT is also a stand out. But the real unsung star is the screenwriter Jimmy McGovern whose capacity for wit is amazing. In the short span of this series he manages to create scenarios and diologue which are intelligent, thought provoking and more than just a little amusing. Even characters who are merely bit players are fleshed out and instilled with real character. One never gets the impression that a character is merely a walk on and that is the true sign of a great craftsman. It must be said that I have always been bothered by one scene in this film. It is the murder of the Asian shopkeeper. Having seen the American film FALLING DOWN (about a white collar worker who goes on a killing spree) I noticed a very great similarity between the two. Each character begins his murderous rampage by getting into an altercation with an asian shopkeeper over the exorbitant prices charged in his shop. Both sceens play the same and curiously both films were released in the same year. Check it out for yourself.

Best Series ever
The "Cracker" series is the best series ever on tv or screen. I was riveted by every one of the videos. I have both boxed sets and the single "To be a Somebody". I was and am a big Prime Suspect fan and have every one of those videos but Cracker has taken over. The American series is not worth watching to me. Robbie Coltrane is the Cracker and all the supporting cast and underlying relationships and stories are absolutely brilliant. I couldn't recommend it any higher. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Morse in misery
This is certainly a highly unusual entry in the series, given the fact that Morse is the chief suspect in a murder investigation. Morse is subjected to all sorts of trials and tribulations--- some of which are designed to create a trail of evidence framing Morse for more than one crime. One of the more amusing aspects of the mystery involves Morse's helplessness when confronted with computer technology and its bearing on the case. However, Sgt. Lewis, who never doubts Morse's innocence, comes to the rescue by utilizing his computer skills to help rescue Morse from his predicament. The role of Inspector Bottomley, who is assigned to investigate Morse, offers some amusement value as well. Bottomley, who belongs to a Masonic lodge, ends up looking rather foolish; moreover, he also seems to have been genuinely chagrined when Morse's innocence is finally established. In any event, this mystery represents an interesting and entertaining role reversal for Morse.

When Life Imitates Art...
First thing to do is to ignore the "Part 1" above in the item title; you're getting the full-length (100 mins, approx.) episode of "Masonic Mysteries." In terms of the world of Inspector Morse, this is probably the Inspector Morse episode even people who wouldn't otherwise care for the series can enjoy (immensely, in most cases), as it's considerably different to any of the other 32 films in the series. Morse is "the hunted, instead of the hunter" for once, as he is being constantly framed (literally & figuratively) by someone whom he put away years ago and is trying to get his own back. The trials Morse is put through parallel the trials by fire & water in the Mozart opera, "The Magic Flute," which he is in rehearsals for at the beginning with his lady friend (played by Kevin Whately's real-life wife), who is subsequently found dead, before a dumbfounded Morse, knife-in-hand and covered in her blood. It's not based on a Colin Dexter novel and was written by Julian Mitchell, who has written/adapted more Morse screenplays than any other. Morse's close relationship with Lewis is manifested in this episode more than possibly any other. A great deal of humor is to be found in "Masonic Mysteries" (at the Masons' expense), especially from the brief exchanges between Chief Inspector Bottomley, who, working with Lewis, is put in charge of the case. Morse is uncharacteristically upbeat throughout most of the duration of the film, particularly especially given the circumstances he is put in. John Thaw regards this as among his three favorite Morse films (and cites its differing from the others as a factor in that), along with "The Dead of Jericho" ("for sentimental reasons") and "Promised Land". This is the first of two Morse films to be directed by Danny Boyle, the director of such cult hits as "Trainspotting" and "Shallow Grave". The incomparable Ian McDiarmid (who played "The Emperor" in the Star Wars films) stars as the evil-genius nemesis. The Inspector Morse series is widely regarded as the peak in televisual entertainment, and this is a prime example. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Excellent episode....
DECEIVED BY FLIGHT, made in 1989, is one of the better Morse dramas. Morse (John Thaw) is more light hearted in this film than some of the later episodes and it is a joy to see him interact with the other actors including his Sgt.'s child. He actually engages in a bit of prank-playing with Robbie (Kevin Whately) who, forced to go 'undercover' as a porter at one of the local colleges at Oxford, finds himself "watching" Morse's parked car as part of his duties.

The gist of the story is that an old boys club called 'The Clarets XI' is in town for an annual cricket match. One of the members, as well as the team coach are former classmates of Morse. The player-friend approaches Morse for a get-together lunch which turns out to be fish and chips on a park bench near the Thames. Morse senses that his former flatmate has something important to share but he can't quite bring himself to the point of telling Morse what it is. As they part, the friend mentions a Zen saying that involves the sound of one hand clapping and a dead student. Later, the friend turns up dead as a result of suicide. Or was it suicide. Soon Morse believes the man was murdered and he is on the trail of the killer. Was the killer his beautiful wife who could have been having an affair with one of the other cricket players? Was it one of the other cricket players? And what about the couple named Foster who behave suspiciously by asking Robbie the porter for a key to the dead man's room.

This episode has it all-great scenes of Oxford and its environs; Morse and Robbie struggling over the cricket match versus classical music on the various office, car, and other radios at hand; Robbie showing he can play cricket as well as any upper class ponce; a really interesting cricket match (I finally realized the pitcher is trying to hit the little poles behind the batter); Morse sleeping through the cricket match; and Morse falling for the wrong woman. The cast includes some familiar faces such as Daniel Massey, Amanda Hillwood, Sharon Maughan, and a very young Nathaniel Parker.

A complicated mystery for amateur sleuths to solve.
Deceived by Flight is one of author Colin Dexter's favorite televised Morse mysteries. Having seen at least twenty or so of these fine programs, I agree with his judgement.

The performances are uniformly excellent; not just Morse, played reliably and well by the fine actor, John Thaw, but also the supporting cast, particularly Kevin Whately as his able assistant, Sergeant Lewis, and Sharon Maughan as Kate Donn, television hostess and wife of slain barrister Anthony Donn. The plot is complicated and the clues are difficult for even Morse to decipher. Apparently Anthony Donn has committed suicide on the eve of his participation in a cricket match at Oxford. Morse doubts that his old friend deliberately killed himself and begins questioning suspects. As we soon find out, much more is at stake in this mystery than the death of an aging cricket player.

Cricket is part of the fun of this mystery. Much time is spent discussing the sport (Morse would prefer to listen to his music) and we also get to see it played. Sergeant Lewis goes undercover as a porter and expert batsman. At the matches another murder takes place and now Morse must try to determine if there are connections between the two deaths.

I think most viewers who watch the Morse series of films like to put their detective caps on and follow the clues carefully to see if they can arrive at the answers before Morse. Deceived by Flight will keep even the best armchair detectives struggling with clues until the satisfying conclusion of this fine program. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

This was a very funny Morse!
It was very fuuny and sad. Poor Morse he had to learn the hard way . And I love the music and where the flimed it! ... Read more

Reviews (9)

A REMORSEFUL ADAPTATION
There's been a murder here, but it's not the one you think. The adaptation of Colin Dexter's "The Remorseful Day" has left a stinking corpse of what was a masterful story, an exquisite exposition of the "Parsifal" like heart of Endeavour Morse. The culprits? Rebecca Eaton and her doltish cadre of American PBS writers who have distinguished themselves in missing the entire point of the book.
Mind you, if you have not read the book, you'll enjoy this video. All the great elements are there: John Thaw essays Morse brilliantly, Kevin Whately turns in a terrific performance as Lewis, although he is compelled to deliver a totally ridiculous and melodramatic "Morse is dead!" proclamation. He acquits himself and moves on. All the supporting players, the family intrigues, the score, the filmwork - all executed brilliantly. So, you'd have little reason to suspect something is awry.

But there is and it is as great a disservice to a book as I can ever remember. Now, that argument can be made about a lot of transfers from book to film, but in this case, and with this series, which has been so faithful to Dexter's works, it is just incomprehensible. I can only conclude that it is due to the American fascination with smoothing out any sense of nuance in order to champion the easily digestible. I should tell you where the crime lies, but that's not fair to anyone who really would enjoy what actually happened in the story. Suffice it to say that much of the story turns on the Parsifal legend, and how in fact the pure of heart are vindicated with vision of the grail, whatever form that grail may take. So, Endeavour Morse is vindicated in a coda that lingers with you long, long after you put the book down. Throughout the film, there are efforts made to quote not only Wagner's theme for "Parsifal", but Han Knappertsbusch's direction of it in the 1962 score. Why? Well, Morse makes reference to it in discussion with Lewis, and it fits with the T.S Elliott quote that includes the title of the story, plus Knappertsbusch was himself the most Morse like of conductors in every way imaginable, and in 1962 was well aware that he was dying. So with all of the main clues in tact, why on earth Eaton and her merry band of nitwits elected to miss the point is not only unimaginable but unforgiveable.

Certainly, enjoy this DVD for what it is. I assure you that if you read the book, you will want, as I want, to grab the murderous crutch and shove it where PBS don't broadcast. The most heinous murder in Oxford was committed in Boston. Shame on Eaton. Perhaps one day Dexter will insist on a reshoot, although Thaw is not well, and Whately may have no interest in any further casting as Lewis. Somehow, the record, as it is in the book, needs to be set straight.

Morse's End Predates John Thaw's by Only a Few Years
Sad to see that the great actor, John Thaw has passed away from esophageal cancer.

This episode is on par with all of the other great episodes of this outstanding series. Thaw's portrayal of an intellectual, world-weary British detective who confronts often complex and involved cases of murder and other crimes.

Now episode to this point really brought home to me how much I loved Inspector Morse. I was actually quite angry to see the great Inspector face such health problems (an understatement), but in light of John Thaw's actual illness, I guess it is to be expected.

My only regret is that there are not 100 more episodes hidden away somewhere. Inspector Morse and John Thaw will be sorely missed.

Relish the Well-done Remorseful Day
This is probably one of the best (if not *the* best) Inspector Morse television episode. I admit to alot of that bias *not* going toward it for being the final installment of the series, but more for it being such a WELL-DONE final installment of the series.

The obligatory murder plot/premise has to do with the re-opening of a case involving the death of a middle-aged temptress/nurse named Yvonne Harrison. Lewis and Morse tackle the case, with the latter acting particularly strange concerning many aspects of the matter. There are a plethora of suspects, one of whom is Morse's own doctor, which conveniently leads to scenes showing how the great Chief Inspector's health is deteriorating rapidly. The Harrison case, while definitely being worked-through carefully, isn't the real focus of the story.

Morse's plight is the prime meaning behind "The Remorseful Day". Never before has the character been rendered so human, and so pathetic. His lady-friend (appearing in recent TV adaptations) has apparently left him, and so Morse is utterly alone. There are poignant scenes between he and Lewis, of him making final preparations, and of him sitting alone in his home listening to profoundly sad classical music. John Thaw as Morse gives a veritable tour-de-force, in the most subtle and gracious way possible, of the great detective in his declining days.

Special note should be given to all involved in the television adaptation, for they have, in my opinion, surpassed the novel. Colin Dexter's book was fine, but it dealt more heavily with the actual murder case, and the illness of Morse was left for small parts, usually at the end of each day. Here, with the version made for the small screen, we have the situation of Morse's closing life brought to the forefront. It is done well, and an experience to watch.

The last scene is terribly moving. I always make it a point to realize that when I sit down to watch a movie or television show, NOT to get too emotional, because there are only actors upon the screen - nothing is real. I thought I would be able to hold forth with said beliefs while watching "The Remorseful Day". But the very last scene, involving just Lewis and Morse, brought tears to my eyes. The swelling music and the starkness of the scene was a wonderful way to end the series.

The impression left is one not easily forgotten.

Please Endeavour to Read this Review!
As a final good-bye to a wonderful series, I was disappointed in "The Remorseful Day." It is a sad and touching film where Chief Inspector Morse bids a fond farewell; however, the film is somewhat disjointed. Morse, more ill than ever -- due to his lack of caring for his health -- exits via a simple myocardial infarction! Couldn't it have been more dramatic or move moving than this?!!! One scene, however, prior to the last touching scene in the mortuary is excellent. It is the night before Morse's death (unbeknownst to him, of course) where he is sitting on his sofa. The look on his face is pathetic and tells the viewer everything. It is without doubt (to me) one of the best scenes in the film -- almost like the blind girl discovering that Chaplin was her benefactor in "City Lights." It is done without words -- only facial expressions.

Alas, our hero has to die and he exits rather pitifully telling Strange to "thank Lewis." I wanted something much more dramatic and much more moving; I suspect Mr. Dexter really does want to retire. The last scene -- when Lewis views Morse's body on a slab and leans over to kiss him -- is very moving and will bring a tear to the eyes of every Morse fan. Although he may have had a rich and rewarding life in his own way with his work, music, poetry and knowledge, I wanted him to go out differently, to have had a woman who really loved him, to have had something in life so very meaningful.... We will miss a very good fictional character and the actors who portrayed the detectives so well. However, thanks to the magic of the movies, we can enjoy the Inspector for years to come!

Goodbye old friend
The loss of "Chief Inspector Morse" hit me just as hard in this, Thaw's, last appearance as this fictional character as the real loss of Jeremy Bret ending the greatest rendition of Sherlock Holmes since the death of Basil Rathbone. Even watching the videos of all the other "cases" is bittersweet as the memory of Lewis kissing Morses' head goodbye in the closing scene now overshadows them all. The true sign of an actors actor making a written character live so vividly. A must see for any Morse fan- just be sure to have the hanky handy and see all the other Morses- first. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Not one of the better films....
THE SETTLING OF THE SUN is not one of the better Morse films. The acting is stagy and overdone. The camera shots are bizarre and awkward. The hotch-potch use of elements from other more successful filmed versions of Colin Dexter's books, such as "Last Seen Wearing", "Last Bus to Woodstock" and "The Dead of Jericho" is insulting to the knowing fan.

I am not sure this film is based on a book. I don't remember reading a book with this title, nor did I find the plot familiar. (I thought I had read all of Colin Dexter's 'Morse' books.) If it is based on a book, the plot is certainly far inferior to those found other tales.

The tortured and unbelievable plot is overlaid with repetitious use of "Morse-isms" which are supposed to "wow" American audiences such as: Morse thinking over a pint in a friendly tavern; Morse driving his little red jaguar all over Oxford; Morse playing music and drinking at home; Morse unwilling to look at a body (three times with the same body). Morse's interest in the female "lead" is far from enthusiastic. It's almost as if he is going through the motions. Also, it's a bit hard to believe that this ditsy overwrought female has the least bit of attractiveness for Morse.

Don't get me wrong. I love the little "English" touches a much as the next Anglophile. I just hate being taken for a sucker. However,if you are devoted Morse fan you will probably want to buy it. Just can't get enough of the late John Thaw.

Possiby the Darkest of All the Inspector Morse Films
The undertones in "Setting of the Sun" deal with war and the moral repercussions thereof. Its direction is, along with "Service of All the Dead," among the most bleak and atmospheric of the Morse films. Another commonality which this film shares with the aforementioned film is its convoluted-yet-plausible plot, consisting of a rather intricate conspiracy theory. It may take a couple viewings for you to comprehend, it certainly did for me. Inspector Morse is asked to present a prize for a crossword competition at a summer school in Londsdale college for a group of overseas students. A murder conducted in a gruesome manner takes place while Morse is dining with the group. It turns out his presence was not incidental; he was meant to be a witness. Jane Robson's, Morse's love interest and the person who invited him to present the prize, feelings for Morse are not mutual in this episode. The uncertain long-term implications of war are beautifully presented at the end with the innocent view of Morse's love interest's daughter, when asked about her grandfather, whose suffering during the war was the impetus behind the conspiracy. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

"He admitted it, Morse. Why would he do that?!"
"Second Time Around" is quite possibly the best of the 33 "Inspector Morse" episodes. If you're a fan of the series and don't own it yet, then you should consider it a must-have. If you're new to the series - start here.

An old police detective is murdered while writing his memoirs. A suspect, Frederick Redpath, is brought-in for questioning. Morse and another chief inspector on the case, Dawson, recognize the man as a suspect from a child murder case from over a decade ago. Dawson becomes heavily involved in the new case, and Morse and his sergeant, Lewis, are trying to work at it from their own angle.

There is conflict, emotion, heartache, introspection, and mystery aplenty in "Second Time Around", and all of these factors come together to help make the episode a real treat. The direction is wonderful, and the acting is amazing. John Thaw, as usual, excels as Morse, and Kevin Whately does well as the ever-faithful Lewis. Oliver Ford Davies, an underrated gem of an actor, is convincing as the troubled Redpath, but the real star of this story is Kenneth Colley (famous from the first "Star Wars" trilogy) as Chief Inspector Dawson. Probably one of the best characters ever to grace the Morse series.

"Inspector Morse" is one of my all-time favorite television shows, and this episode is simply tremendous. It encompasses the best aspects of the series: an introspective Morse, a haunting murder case, great guest stars, and sorrowful music from Puccini ('Senza Mamma' from Suor Angelica). This is simply the best of "Morse". Don't pass it up.

Inspector Morse
Inspector Morse shines in this film, as always. It's one of the most fascinating Morses ever made. This film leaves you guessing until the end.

Memoirs of Inspector Morse
This episode of the Morse series provides the viewer with some insight into the development of Morse's character.

The death of senior police office shortly after his retirement celebration sets the scene of a murder investigation which departs from the immediate concern of his murder to become a much broader investigation which encompasses an 18 year old unresolved murder mystery which Morse was involved in.

In this rather unusual Morse there are some exemplarary performances notably from Pat Heywood (RootInto Europe) and Oliver Ford Davies (who would later co-star with Thaw in the sublime series, Kavanagh Q.C.). What distinguishes this particular Morse from the others is the degree of personal involvement shown by Morse. Despite his usual disspassionate, academic approach. Morse cannot resist responding to the friction from his old colleague who found success following his mentor, the Deputy Chief Police Commissioner to London. Also there is a heightened sensitivity shown by Morse to the case of the young girl, murdered many years earlier.

There are the usual twists and turns but in particular the scenes where the long suffering suspect of the child's death is finally completely cleared of any involvement. At that point the latest suspect is mentioned only for the first accused to fiercely criticise the police for their continued incompetence.

The conclusion to the story is a tragic scene wherein Morse confronts the killer with the evidence of his guilt. At that juncture the viwere is faced with sympathy with the killer's motive for the crime only to discover that the man who was killed was doing so protecting his child's life in just the same way that the murderer is revenging his.

Here the extent of Morse's involvement is revealed and one of the lasting impressions we have is the depth of tremendous sadness in his eyes.

This episode shows us the emotional side of Morse in many different ways. The storyline is supported in this regard by a stellar performance of Kevin Whately who gives vent to his frustrations with what he perceives to be Morse's attitude and verbally lashes him, only to discover later that he was wrong and very sheepishly apologises. Morse is magnanimous in his acceptance of the apology and moves on.

All around a very polished performance and an enthralling whodunit in the very best traditions of the genre. A+++

One of the Best
Not counting those adaptations based on actual Dexter novels, "Second Time Around" may well be the best single episode in an almost continuously excellent series. The strengths of the series are here in abundance: compelling plots, tight direction, interesting characters, and, unlike a few of the later episodes, a denouement that not only make senses and is unrushed but that has real emotional and psychological impact as well. Thaw and Whately are in top form, the best one-two punch in crime fiction since Holmes and Watson. This episode is also an excellent example of one of the thematic preoccupations of this series: middle-age melancholy and the toll it sometimes takes.

"Second Time Around" is yet another example of the superb work of John Thaw as Morse--even in those episodes which lack the usual tension and bite, Thaw's Morse is an astounding presence, irritable, acidic, vulnerable, funny, pompous, and compelling, by turns, and thoroughly, entertainingly, convincing. For those unfamiliar with the series, here is a good place to start. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

OH...WHAT A WEB WE WEAVE...
Based upon Catherine Cookson's best-selling novel of the same name, this is a handsome adaptation that beautifully showcases the book. At the center of the film is a strong, independent woman, modern for her time, England in the nineteenth century.

Bridget Mordaunt is a wealthy young woman with a mind of her own and a heart of gold. Intelligent, practical, and fair, she is a no nonsense business woman who has a soft spot for Joe Skinner, a working class, honorable, young man who has broken away from his lazy, trashy family. He works in the factory that Bridget inherited from her deceased father who taught her the business. Unfortunately, Joe Skinner is in love with another young woman, Lilly, a factory worker who has been wronged by Lionel Filmore, the profligate scion of an impoverished member of the gentry. Joe marries Lilly, vowing always to protect her good name and knowing that the child she carries is not his.

Bridget's cousin, Victoria, who lives with her and whom she supports, is in love with Lionel, who mistakenly believes Victoria to be the factory heiress. On the day that Victoria expects their engagement to be announced, Lionel discovers that Bridget, and not Victoria, is the heiress. As this threatens to destroy the future that Victoria is seeing with rose colored glasses, Bridget steps in and makes a business deal with Lionel, not knowing just how despicable a blackguard Lionel really is, thinking that by doing do she is ensuring Victoria's happiness.

When the disparate worlds of the Skinners and Filmores collide one day, it leaves Joe accused of a murder he did not commit. What happens, as a result, will change the lives of all involved, as that murder acts as a catalyst for a series of events and revelations that will leave none concerned unscathed. No matter what happens, however, Bridget is at the core of this film.

This is a film worth seeing if one is interested in period pieces, the novels of Catherine Cookson, or a simply entertaining film with a first rate cast.

another fine catherine cookson adaption
I really enjoy Catherine Cookson's novels...and I've seen almost all the movie adaptions done for some of them. You get romance, intrigue, life struggles, and class warfare that seems to work out perfectly in the end. If you enjoy this one you shouls also check out "The Dwelling PLace" and "The Glass Virgin" ... Read more

Reviews (1)

improbable plot
I have viewed and own numerous DVD entries in the Inspector Morse series. This particular mystery is not especially appealing, in that it revolves around a somewhat implausible combination of university/religious politics, eating disorders, and a weight loss organization which goes to extreme lengths to protect its reputation and profitability. Ultimately, even the death which represents the subject of the investigation turns out to be unconnected to blatant criminal activity. Compared to other entries in the series, FAT CHANCE is one of the less interesting stories.

M. Williams ... Read more

Reviews (1)

GREAT
Its a great movie if you like suspense and action. I love it when the guys head catches on fire! ... Read more

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The Last Enemy
This one has more humor than any of the others I think.Morse is really going for women in these one. He has a toothache and its pretty funny. So I suggest you get a sotch and enjoy this epiosde. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

As usual, John Thaw played His role as Morse brilliantly.
The story line is believeable,the acting is great, the city is beautiful. What more can I say? ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Morse is actually quite funny throughout this film
Extremely well written, this mystery has Morse and Lewis on the trail of a murderer when all the evidence points to death by natural causes. In the course of the story Morse must deal with all sorts of wealthy American tourists, and one wonders whether this film had any impact on the screenwriters of GOSFORD PARK. Whether it did or not, and whether the actors are really Yanks or not, the cultural clashes are more overtly funny than this series usually gets, Morse is very nearly Basil Fawlty in several scenes.
By this time in the series, Whatley and Thaw were really hitting their stride and their natural ease with each other made these films entirely believeable. Dexter set out to write these stories because he thought he could do a better job than what he had read in the genre, and he did just that. Morse and Lewis are every bit the match for Holmes and Watson.
Anyway, this is a great story, brilliantly written for the screen, and one in which Morse's caustic humour is let run rampant over each and every person with whom he collides. Oh yeah, a jewel is stolen and a woman is dead. Who done it..... that would be telling.

Content good, DVD quality poor
The Inspector Morse series is one of the great British TV mystery programs of all time. "The Wolvercote Tongue" is a decent adaptation of Colin Dexter's "The Jewel That Was Ours," although the book is better. The stereotypical American characters are grating, but this episode is still worth watching for the wonderful performances of --and chemistry between-- actors John Thaw and Kevin Whately. My real complaint about this DVD, however, is with the overall presentation. While I'm grateful to BFS Video (an apparently low-budget operation in Canada) for finally bringing the Morse series to DVD in the US, they've done an incredibly poor job on the DVD transfer and with the packaging of the handful of Morse DVDs that they've released to date. Among other things, the video quality is poor. It looks something you'd get when you put your VCR to the lowest recording grade possible. Second, the unbelievably cheesy BFS Video logo and theme song that assaults the eyes and ears at the start of each DVD is an embarrassment. BFS can't seem to even get the cover photo of their products right. On some of their other Morse DVDs, they use photos that have nothing to do with the particular episode and/or are printed backwards. For this early Morse program, however, they go one further and use a photo that was not only taken many years later, it's from a DIFFERENT SHOW ENTIRELY, namely John Thaw's barrister series from the 1990s, Kavanagh QC. BFS- if you're reading this, kindly fire your products marketing people, as they clearly don't know anything about Morse. There are dozens --if not hundreds or thousands-- of fans out there like me who will gladly help you do things properly, and for no charge! There's no excuse for such shoddy work. Morse fans deserve better.

Rage, rage against the dying of the light.....
The WOLVERCOTE TONGUE is a pin that fits into a buckle-an elaborate and beautiful Anglo-Saxon buckle of the sort excavated at Sutton Hoo. The bejeweled tongue is the most beautiful part of the buckle that once clasped the waist of a mighty lord. The matching buckle is on exhibit in the fabled Oxford University Ashmolean--the oldest museum in England.

The tongue, long ago separated from the buckle, is owned by a rich American woman who has traveled with a group of tourists to Oxford, where she plans to present the pin to the Ashmolean. The afternoon of the presentation, after too much touring about the city has tired her, the woman goes to her hotel room to take a nap from which she will never awake. Her husband discovers her body and that the Wolvercote tongue has gone missing. Never fear, Endeavor Morse, Detective Chief Inspector of the Thames Valley Police and his trusty sidekick Sgt. Lewis are soon on the case.

This is a lovely film, and a vicarious thrill for Anglophiles who have spent hours and hours in Oxford or wish they had. The colleges, the shops, walking along behind Merton, the Botanical garden, punters on the Thames, the Ashmolean-it wouldn't matter to me if the plot made sense or not (it does), or whether the characters were fully developed or not (they are). Oxford's gleaming spires in the dying light of the afternoon sun and John Thaw-who could ask for anything more. ... Read more