Reviews

In this time of mostly dour TV mediocrity, it is a relief to be able to savor and enjoy the stupefyingly satisfying excellence that Duchess of Duke Street imparts. Truly a classic and a treasure, it has not dated a second and still packs a wallop both dramatically and historically. The cast boasts an amazing array of superb actors, all of whom best, with rare exception, any working TV actor today.

Gemma Jones is so delicious and perfect that she is indelible in the part to anyone who watches. Her energy and conviction carry the show even when she has little to do in some of the episodes. Christopher Cazenove is sexy, charming and touching and should have become a big star.

If one had to give a reason to substantiate the continued existence of television, one need only to turn to this dramatic jewel that is the Duchess of Duke Street.

Ruins is a throwback to the kind of movie made in the 50's but with all this century's penchant for guts and gore. Back then the posters would have screamed "FILMED IN PLANTASCOPE!{". Dumber than a sack of hammers this movie is so bad it's good. It definitely belongs on a triple bill of high camp with Day Of The Triffids and Little Shop of Horrors. The gory gross out scenes are lip-smacking silly and a hoot and one can't wait for the cast to succumb both quickly and messily. Some good photography with effects that are cheesy, cheap and cheerfully over the top. The cast are attractive at first and unfortunately overstay their welcome very quickly by becoming tiresome due to the insipid writing.

Maybe it is a tad old fashioned, but this film still can knock one on one's ass with its simple and powerful story. If only films today could be as simply endearing as this one. The acting is not award winning, yet it is heartfelt,honest and straightforward. The score is fantastic as it is truly an organic part of the film's fabric and the photography is breathtaking as it should inspire a visit to Antwerp and leave one in wonder when one realizes how beautifully the camera has captured it's energy, it's town square,it's gorgeous cathedral and especially the Peter Paul Reubens paintings. Classic may be an overused and well worn word but it perfectly describes this film. Small, honest and completely unpretentious it still stands as one of the most perfect children's stories that all ages can enjoy,weep and rejoice at.