| Potter's masterpiece |
|
| written by underdog |
April 24, 2003 - 1:35 PM PDT |
|
8 out of 9 members found this review helpful
|
| Pure and simple, one of the greatest pieces of writing ever screened on TV. This was one of those films (series) that made me want to be a writer for the screen, and anyone who is interested in the art of screenwriting should watch the whole series, too. But don't think this is all academic -- The Singing Detective is enormously entertaining and moving, an enthralling program. Michael Gambon's portrayal of the Potter-like (and cleverly named) Philip Marlow is astounding because he manages to play him on so many levels, as suffering, ailing writer, lonely man, noir-ish detective, keeping all those balls juggling in synchronicity. (Joanne Whalley is quite good, and sexy, too, as the nurse who takes care of him.) The series has humor and pathos in equal balance, and brilliantly woven all throughout a collection of classic songs. (Rumor has it that an American feature version is in the works, with Robert Downey Jr. Might be good, but I can't see it matching the original.) This BBC original is not just worth waiting to rent... frankly, it's worth owning. Unparalleled. |
|
|
Your cart
© 2006 All Media Guide, LLC. Portions of content provided by All Movie Guide®,
a trademark of All Media Guide, LLC.