tdcheck Reviews

Beauty and the Beast (2014– )

Surprisingly lovelyi

[11 February 2018]

I stumbled upon this program while browsing random channels while feeling ill. Always a fan of the story I started to watch. Finding myself soon mesmerised by the leading actor. The slight twist to the story was interesting, and initially I was a little disappointed by what disfigurement was hiding behind the mask,but then I understood the meaning behind the 'beast' was more to do with behaviour. I was interested to read the previous review about the voice actors. I could obviously see they were speaking English, but the voices didn't seem to match. Having seen the dubbed version I'd love to see the original to hear the actors true voices as I'm sure it would be a much better watch and listen. I really enjoyed it and confess to falling a bit in love with prince Leon.

Arthur & Merlin (2015)

Really enjoyable

[9/10 · 23 September 2015]

I wasn't sure what to expect with this film - I'd heard it was a bit of a twist to the classic Arthur and Merlin story. Has to be said I enjoyed every minute.

The filming locations were stunning, I thought the actors did an amazing job and I thought the costumes were pretty good too. Considering this didn't have the massive budget like some films I thought it looked very impressive. I also enjoyed the music, although I admit sometimes it was a little over powering.

I have never seen the leading actors in anything before, but I'm really hoping to see them again in a sequel. It would be really interesting to see how their relationship develops, and hopefully to see some more magic.

Overall I think the cast and crew did a great job - and I'm glad I bought the DVD, it's definitely one I will watch over again.

Emulsion (2014)

Beautiful and amazing

[10/10 · 10 November 2013]

Not great at writing these kinds of things - but here goes! Have recently discovered Sam Heughan, and as soon as I heard about this film I wanted to see it. Had to wait a while for the opportunity, and finally got to see it at the Rich Mix in London. Didn't really know what to expect, but from the moment it starts I was hooked. I don't want to give anything away about the storyline, but it keeps you guessing all through the film. Just when I started to think I knew what was going on, something happened to change my mind - it was amazing. Keeps you guessing right until the end of the film, keeps your full attention. The cast all do an amazing job, but Mr Heughan just owns the screen all the time he is on it. Such a fantastic performance. The film is beautifully filmed, visually quite stunning. I would love to see this film again as I'm sure on a second viewing there would be a lot more to be noticed. Would love this film to come out on DVD - but in the meantime will keep my eyes open for another viewing I would be able to attend. As Mr Heughan's fanbase increases (as it surely will next year!) there will be a lot of people wanting to see this film, which I will heartily recommend. Well done all concerned and thank you.

First Light (2010 TV Movie)

Enjoyable - and a bit emotional

[8/10 · 8 August 2013]

I have always had a thing for Spitfires. They are my all time favourite plane. I'm lucky enough to live quite near a small airfield and one flies over quite regularly. The sound of the engine is so recognisable - even to a total non expert like me. The pilots of these amazing planes were heroes, no getting away from that, and although I've seen war films before,(Reach for the Sky being one I have watched many times!) I found this film to be a bit of an eye opener. Having seen it was based on the journal of the pilot himself - makes it all more realistic. Thought Mr Heughan did a first class job playing Wellum. And the rest of the supporting cast were good too. Would liked to have seen a little more of what happens to the characters after he left, but at least there was a small write up on this before the credits go up! An enjoyable film.

A Princess for Christmas (2011 TV Movie)

A lovely film

[9/10 · 24 July 2013]

Watched this having heard that Sam Heughan had been picked to play Jamie Fraser. Spurred on by the fact Katie McGrath was also in this (loved her in Merlin!) Really enjoyed this easy to watch Christmas film, Sam was definitely the best thing in it! Although the children put in good performances too. I won't go into the story too much, but one of my favourite scenes has to be the dance lesson and their initial first meeting. My only down point (and the reason I gave 9 instead of 10) was Katies's accent which did waiver a little through out the film. Should have just stayed with her natural accent. My 5 year old also sat with me and also enjoyed it, and wanted to marry the prince at the end of the film :-)

Dear Frankie (2004)

Brilliant

[10/10 · 14 January 2005]

Had heard about the awards this film had received and wasn't sure what to expect. I only wanted to support the film as I am a huge fan of Gerard Butler.

I loved every minute of the film - took me through a whole range of emotions. All the main characters are able to portray their feelings, from their actions and expressions - words were hardly needed.

The story is a little different - and you really feel for Frankie's mother. There are some funny moments - and some heart wrenching ones. I got so into the story, it really pulls you in.

I saw this when it was being shown as a one off, and I can't wait for the general release - I will be seeing it again and taking lots of friends with me!

I recommend to anyone to see this film - it should appeal to most. It is well worth seeing.

The Phantom of the Opera (2004)

Brilliant

[10/10 · 19 December 2004]

Well I loved it. Already a huge fan of the music, I was really looking forward to seeing this film and to be honest I was expecting to be a little disappointed. Thankfully i wasn't. I loved the sets, the costumes and thought that all the actors did an amazing job. they have a lot to live up too and personally I think they all did well.

i think my main concern was I was not going to think a lot of the phantom - having listened to Michael Crawford singing for years, but I actually though this version was better - he puts more emotion into his singing and more ermm 'grunt'! As you can tell I'm no critic and not great with words, but I still had goosebumps listening to the music and came out of the cinema crying! Thank you soo much for making this film!