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“A Comedy Of Errors”
By Raymond Benson
Alastair Sim was a national treasure in Great Britain, a comic actor who never failed to make one smile or outright guffaw. His Scrooge proved that he could also take a serious turn as well. This reviewer likens him to an early sort of John Cleese—an irreverent player who could do irony, surrealism, farce, wicked delight, and pure outrageousness within the confines of a somewhat realistic human being of a character.
As the star of The Green Man (1956), Sim plays an assassin named Harry Hawkins. Yes, that’s right, Alastair Sim is a mad bomber who takes it upon himself to get rid of the pompous blowhards in Britain, whether they be boring politicians or unctuous professors. He even has a Peter Lorre-like assistant, McKechnie (John Chandos), who is willing to obey Harry, even...
“A Comedy Of Errors”
By Raymond Benson
Alastair Sim was a national treasure in Great Britain, a comic actor who never failed to make one smile or outright guffaw. His Scrooge proved that he could also take a serious turn as well. This reviewer likens him to an early sort of John Cleese—an irreverent player who could do irony, surrealism, farce, wicked delight, and pure outrageousness within the confines of a somewhat realistic human being of a character.
As the star of The Green Man (1956), Sim plays an assassin named Harry Hawkins. Yes, that’s right, Alastair Sim is a mad bomber who takes it upon himself to get rid of the pompous blowhards in Britain, whether they be boring politicians or unctuous professors. He even has a Peter Lorre-like assistant, McKechnie (John Chandos), who is willing to obey Harry, even...
- 6/25/2021
- by nospam@example.com (Cinema Retro)
- Cinemaretro.com
To mark the release of Laughter in Paradise on 29th June, we’ve been given 2 copies to give away on Blu-ray.
The four remaining relatives of famed practical joker Henry Russell are brought together to hear his last will and testament, revealing a £50,000 inheritance for each of them, if they can complete a set task that is completely at odds with their character. The assignments are designed to reflect their greatest shortcomings and test their ability to adapt, and ultimately change for the better.
Law-abiding retired army officer Deniston (Alastair Sim) secretly writes scandalous novels, until he is given a week to get himself arrested for an actual crime and jailed for exactly 28 days. Haughty Agnes (Fay Compton) must find employment as a housekeeper in a middle-class home and retain her position for a month despite her disdain. Simon (Guy Middleton), a penniless womanising rogue, has to marry the first single woman he speaks to,...
The four remaining relatives of famed practical joker Henry Russell are brought together to hear his last will and testament, revealing a £50,000 inheritance for each of them, if they can complete a set task that is completely at odds with their character. The assignments are designed to reflect their greatest shortcomings and test their ability to adapt, and ultimately change for the better.
Law-abiding retired army officer Deniston (Alastair Sim) secretly writes scandalous novels, until he is given a week to get himself arrested for an actual crime and jailed for exactly 28 days. Haughty Agnes (Fay Compton) must find employment as a housekeeper in a middle-class home and retain her position for a month despite her disdain. Simon (Guy Middleton), a penniless womanising rogue, has to marry the first single woman he speaks to,...
- 6/11/2020
- by Competitions
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Staring down his prey with sunken eyes and a sinister smile, Alastair Sim was the fiend Charles Addams never got around to drawing. Sim was a quick-change artist who didn’t need makeup to transform from a grasping monster into your favorite uncle – it’s why he remains the greatest interpreter of Ebenezer Scrooge. Whether playing a cold-blooded assassin in The Green Man or a kindly army chaplain in Folly to be Wise he understood as well as anyone why the masks of tragedy and comedy are intertwined.
Sim is one of those figures who’s been consigned to the history books for decades. But by releasing a Blu ray set of the great man’s comedies in 2020, Film Movement Classics, like Scrooge, hasn’t lost their senses – they’ve come to them.
Alastair Sim’s School for Laughter
Blu ray
Film Movement Classics
1954, ’60, ’51, ’47 / 1.67:1, 1.37:1 / 86, 97, 93, 82 min.
Starring Alastair Sim,...
Sim is one of those figures who’s been consigned to the history books for decades. But by releasing a Blu ray set of the great man’s comedies in 2020, Film Movement Classics, like Scrooge, hasn’t lost their senses – they’ve come to them.
Alastair Sim’s School for Laughter
Blu ray
Film Movement Classics
1954, ’60, ’51, ’47 / 1.67:1, 1.37:1 / 86, 97, 93, 82 min.
Starring Alastair Sim,...
- 4/25/2020
- by Charlie Largent
- Trailers from Hell
To mark the release of The Green Man on 18th May, we’ve been given 2 copies to give on Blu-ray.
Alastair Sim plays Hawkins, a timid watchmaker with a part time job – he is also a professional assassin who bumps off the people we love to hate. But when the philandering MP Sir Gregory Upshott (Raymond Huntley) is the intended target, vacuum cleaner salesman William Blake (George Cole) and Hawkins’ new neighbour Ann Vincent (Jill Adams) repeatedly get in the way. As the time of the assassination draws ever closer and Hawkins tracks his victim to a dilapidated seaside hotel called the Green Man, the laughs and the tension steadily rise to a brilliant climax.
Please note: This competition is open to UK residents only
a Rafflecopter giveaway
The Small Print
Open to UK residents only The competition will close 18th May 2020 at 23.59 GMT The winner will be picked at...
Alastair Sim plays Hawkins, a timid watchmaker with a part time job – he is also a professional assassin who bumps off the people we love to hate. But when the philandering MP Sir Gregory Upshott (Raymond Huntley) is the intended target, vacuum cleaner salesman William Blake (George Cole) and Hawkins’ new neighbour Ann Vincent (Jill Adams) repeatedly get in the way. As the time of the assassination draws ever closer and Hawkins tracks his victim to a dilapidated seaside hotel called the Green Man, the laughs and the tension steadily rise to a brilliant climax.
Please note: This competition is open to UK residents only
a Rafflecopter giveaway
The Small Print
Open to UK residents only The competition will close 18th May 2020 at 23.59 GMT The winner will be picked at...
- 4/16/2020
- by Competitions
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
The Scarecrow of Romney Marsh
Blu ray
Disney Movie Club
1964/ 1:66 / 151 min.
Starring Patrick McGoohan, George Cole, Michael Hordern
Directed by James Neilson
One part Walt Disney, one part Patrick McGoohan – a bittersweet recipe if ever there was one. The notoriously brusque Irishman was immune to the crowd-pleasing sentimentality that shaped Disney’s empire yet he headlined two of that studio’s most appealing entertainments, The Three Lives of Thomasina and The Scarecrow of Romney Marsh. An esoteric feline fantasy and a blood and thunder adventure tale, the films couldn’t have been more unalike but McGoohan anchored them both, reveling in the contradictions of his own characters. In Thomasina he plays a veterinarian with little love for animals. In Scarecrow he’s a kindly minister who spends his evenings terrorizing the parish.
In 18th century England, a brutal age marked by despots and dissent, the Scarecrow haunts the tiny fishing port of Dymchurch.
Blu ray
Disney Movie Club
1964/ 1:66 / 151 min.
Starring Patrick McGoohan, George Cole, Michael Hordern
Directed by James Neilson
One part Walt Disney, one part Patrick McGoohan – a bittersweet recipe if ever there was one. The notoriously brusque Irishman was immune to the crowd-pleasing sentimentality that shaped Disney’s empire yet he headlined two of that studio’s most appealing entertainments, The Three Lives of Thomasina and The Scarecrow of Romney Marsh. An esoteric feline fantasy and a blood and thunder adventure tale, the films couldn’t have been more unalike but McGoohan anchored them both, reveling in the contradictions of his own characters. In Thomasina he plays a veterinarian with little love for animals. In Scarecrow he’s a kindly minister who spends his evenings terrorizing the parish.
In 18th century England, a brutal age marked by despots and dissent, the Scarecrow haunts the tiny fishing port of Dymchurch.
- 12/21/2019
- by Charlie Largent
- Trailers from Hell
Based on Frank De Felitta's unsettling book of the same name, 1983's The Entity is coming to Blu-ray like never before in a new Collector's Edition from Scream Factory, and we've been provided with the full list of special features ahead of its June 11th release, including a new interview with star Barbara Hershey.
Press Release: Carla Moran, a hard-working single mother whose life becomes a nightmare when she is attacked in her bedroom by someone – or something – that she cannot see. Disbelieved by her friends and dismissed by skeptical psychiatrists, Carla begins to lose her grip as she is repeatedly attacked in her car, in the bath, and even in front of her children. Could this be a case of hysteria, a manifestation of childhood sexual trauma, or something even more horrific? Seeking help from a group of daring parapsychologists, Carla will attempt an unthinkable experiment: to seduce,...
Press Release: Carla Moran, a hard-working single mother whose life becomes a nightmare when she is attacked in her bedroom by someone – or something – that she cannot see. Disbelieved by her friends and dismissed by skeptical psychiatrists, Carla begins to lose her grip as she is repeatedly attacked in her car, in the bath, and even in front of her children. Could this be a case of hysteria, a manifestation of childhood sexual trauma, or something even more horrific? Seeking help from a group of daring parapsychologists, Carla will attempt an unthinkable experiment: to seduce,...
- 4/25/2019
- by Derek Anderson
- DailyDead
Dennis Waterman has suggested that the funeral of his Minder co-star George Cole will be "horrible but a wonderful celebration".
Cole, who was best known for playing used-car salesman Arthur Daley in the hit ITV comedy-drama opposite Waterman's Terry McCann, passed away at the age of 90 last Thursday (August 6).
Speaking on Good Morning Britain about the late actor, Waterman said: "He was a wonderful man.
"I mean, it's easy to talk [about] him but it's what everybody would say. He was the most loved man in the profession, I would imagine. You won't ever hear anybody say a bad word about George.
"He was a wonderful actor, he had a fantastic career and he stayed the nicest person you could meet."
Waterman recalled: "We met, we sparred a bit together, you know - because we didn't know each other and we hadn't worked together - and then within two or...
Cole, who was best known for playing used-car salesman Arthur Daley in the hit ITV comedy-drama opposite Waterman's Terry McCann, passed away at the age of 90 last Thursday (August 6).
Speaking on Good Morning Britain about the late actor, Waterman said: "He was a wonderful man.
"I mean, it's easy to talk [about] him but it's what everybody would say. He was the most loved man in the profession, I would imagine. You won't ever hear anybody say a bad word about George.
"He was a wonderful actor, he had a fantastic career and he stayed the nicest person you could meet."
Waterman recalled: "We met, we sparred a bit together, you know - because we didn't know each other and we hadn't worked together - and then within two or...
- 8/11/2015
- Digital Spy
Sir Roger Moore has led tributes to George Cole, who's died aged 90. The 'James Bond' legend described the TV and film star - best known for his lead role in the British comedy-drama series 'Minder' between 1979 and 1994 - as ''a lovely actor'' and ''a gentleman''. He wrote on Twitter: ''How sad to hear George Cole has gone to that great cutting room in the sky. A lovely actor. A gentleman.'' The British Film Institute expressed its sympathy for George's family on the social media site, while 'Little Britain' comedian Matt Lucas has shared fond memories of being a young 'Minder'...
- 8/6/2015
- Virgin Media - TV
George Cole, best known for his role of Arthur Daley in the series Minder, has died. He was 90. Agent Derek Webster said Cole passed away in the hospital after coming down with an illness. He was surrounded by his family at the time. Webster said in a statement obtained by E! News, "It is with deep regret that I have to announce the sad death of one of our most loved and respected actors. George Cole passed away yesterday at the Royal Berkshire Hospital after a short illness. His wife Penny and his son Toby were with him at his bedside." Adopted when he was just 10 days old, Cole grew up in London with comedy star Alastair Sim and wife Naomi. When he entered his teenage years, Cole appeared alongside his...
- 8/6/2015
- E! Online
George Cole in The Vampire Lovers
With his flashy cars, his fat cigars and his large VATs, Minder con man Arthur Daley became one of the most popular characters on British TV. Now, 21 years after the series came to an end. the man who played him, George Cole, has died.
Though best known for his television work, which also included roles in A Man Of Our Times, Blott On The Landscape and The Bounder, Cole also enjoyed a lengthy film career, appearing in the likes of Cleopatra, May Reilly and The Vampire Lovers. he was well known for his work in the popular St Trinians films of the Fifties and Sixties. Last year he joined the cast of Spencer Hawken's mystery thriller Road Rage and told friends how much he was looking forward to it.
Given up for adoption as a baby, Cole subsequently lost his adoptive father but had the good fortune,...
With his flashy cars, his fat cigars and his large VATs, Minder con man Arthur Daley became one of the most popular characters on British TV. Now, 21 years after the series came to an end. the man who played him, George Cole, has died.
Though best known for his television work, which also included roles in A Man Of Our Times, Blott On The Landscape and The Bounder, Cole also enjoyed a lengthy film career, appearing in the likes of Cleopatra, May Reilly and The Vampire Lovers. he was well known for his work in the popular St Trinians films of the Fifties and Sixties. Last year he joined the cast of Spencer Hawken's mystery thriller Road Rage and told friends how much he was looking forward to it.
Given up for adoption as a baby, Cole subsequently lost his adoptive father but had the good fortune,...
- 8/6/2015
- by Jennie Kermode
- eyeforfilm.co.uk
British actor George Cole was best known for playing smalltime conman Arthur Daley in the hit 1980s TV show Minder. Minder ran on ITV for 10 series between 1979 and 1994, but Cole had a 70-year career on stage, in film and on TV, also known for his Flash Harry in St Trinian’s and appearances in TV show UFO
George Cole, actor who played Arthur Daley, dies aged 90 Continue reading...
George Cole, actor who played Arthur Daley, dies aged 90 Continue reading...
- 8/6/2015
- by Guardian Staff
- The Guardian - Film News
Minder star George Cole has died at the age of 90.
The actor was best known for playing used-car salesman Arthur Daley in the hit ITV comedy-drama opposite Dennis Waterman's Terry McCann.
His agent Derek Webster confirmed that he died on Wednesday (August 5) surrounded by his family at Royal Berkshire Hospital, following a short illness.
When once asked what prompted him to accept the iconic role of Arthur, Cole said: "When I read the proposal for Minder, it said Arthur's favourite film was The Godfather, that he was behind the then-Home Secretary as far as law and order were concerned and that he dressed like a dodgy member of a Citizens' Advice Bureau. That made me want to do [it]."
Cole's movie career started in the 1940s, and he appeared opposite Laurence Olivier in his movie version of Henry V in 1944.
After the war, he had the lead role in radio comedy A Life of Bliss,...
The actor was best known for playing used-car salesman Arthur Daley in the hit ITV comedy-drama opposite Dennis Waterman's Terry McCann.
His agent Derek Webster confirmed that he died on Wednesday (August 5) surrounded by his family at Royal Berkshire Hospital, following a short illness.
When once asked what prompted him to accept the iconic role of Arthur, Cole said: "When I read the proposal for Minder, it said Arthur's favourite film was The Godfather, that he was behind the then-Home Secretary as far as law and order were concerned and that he dressed like a dodgy member of a Citizens' Advice Bureau. That made me want to do [it]."
Cole's movie career started in the 1940s, and he appeared opposite Laurence Olivier in his movie version of Henry V in 1944.
After the war, he had the lead role in radio comedy A Life of Bliss,...
- 8/6/2015
- Digital Spy
George Cole has died aged 90. The TV and film actor - whose career spanned 70 years - is best known for his starring role in the British comedy-drama series 'Minder', in which he played the part of Arthur Daley for 16 years, between 1979 and 1994. Agent Derek Webster confirmed George's death, saying: ''It is with deep regret that I have to announce the sad death of one of our most loved and respected actors. ''George Cole passed away yesterday at the Royal Berkshire hospital after a short illness. His wife Penny and his son Toby were with him at his...
- 8/4/2015
- Virgin Media - TV
Iconic Hammer actresses Martine Beswick, Veronica Carlson and Caroline Munro. (All photos copyright Adrian Smith. All rights reserved.)
Retro-active: The Best From Cinema Retro's Archives
(The following article was originally run in November, 2014)
By Adrian Smith
With around sixty special guests in attendance, the Westminster Central Hall on Saturday the 7th of November was packed to its domed roof with excited Hammer film fans.
Familiar faces including Caroline Munro, Valerie Leon, Madeline Smith and Martine Beswick were providing some glamour, but the organisers managed to make the event extra-memorable by securing the presence of Edina Ronay, George Cole, Freddie Jones and others who had not signed autographs at a fan event before. At times queues to meet them ran out of the building and down the street! Other rare UK appearances were made from Veronica Carlson and Linda Hayden, flown in from the Us to meet their fans. It was...
Retro-active: The Best From Cinema Retro's Archives
(The following article was originally run in November, 2014)
By Adrian Smith
With around sixty special guests in attendance, the Westminster Central Hall on Saturday the 7th of November was packed to its domed roof with excited Hammer film fans.
Familiar faces including Caroline Munro, Valerie Leon, Madeline Smith and Martine Beswick were providing some glamour, but the organisers managed to make the event extra-memorable by securing the presence of Edina Ronay, George Cole, Freddie Jones and others who had not signed autographs at a fan event before. At times queues to meet them ran out of the building and down the street! Other rare UK appearances were made from Veronica Carlson and Linda Hayden, flown in from the Us to meet their fans. It was...
- 3/4/2015
- by nospam@example.com (Cinema Retro)
- Cinemaretro.com
Cinema Retro has received the following press release:
London Film Convention
The 80th Anniversary of Hammer!
Saturday November the 8th ( 10am – 6pm )
Venue : Central Hall Westminster.
Storey’s Gate, Westminster, London SW1H 9Nh
Celebrates in a one-off special event one of the worlds longest running film production companies Hammer’s 80th anniversary.
Founded by William Hindes and James Carerras in November 1934!
The company very much dominated the world market from the 1950’s to the 1970’s in comedies but above all their now classic horror films.
Now very much back in production with several successful films over the past years.
With a sequel to their film version of the play “ Woman In Black “ that starred Daniel Radcliff due for release in 2015 “ Woman In Black : Angel Of Death “ .
The show is also a celebration of the British film industry and of the past and present creative film making in...
London Film Convention
The 80th Anniversary of Hammer!
Saturday November the 8th ( 10am – 6pm )
Venue : Central Hall Westminster.
Storey’s Gate, Westminster, London SW1H 9Nh
Celebrates in a one-off special event one of the worlds longest running film production companies Hammer’s 80th anniversary.
Founded by William Hindes and James Carerras in November 1934!
The company very much dominated the world market from the 1950’s to the 1970’s in comedies but above all their now classic horror films.
Now very much back in production with several successful films over the past years.
With a sequel to their film version of the play “ Woman In Black “ that starred Daniel Radcliff due for release in 2015 “ Woman In Black : Angel Of Death “ .
The show is also a celebration of the British film industry and of the past and present creative film making in...
- 10/20/2014
- by nospam@example.com (Cinema Retro)
- Cinemaretro.com
★★★★☆Some films could only have been made in England, during a certain era and with a particular cast. The Belles of St. Trinian's (1954) - newly released by StudioCanal to mark its sixtieth anniversary - is one such film. Though its popularity led to a string of sequels throughout the 1950s and 60s - as well as an unfortunate revival in 2007 - it is the original film, directed by Frank Launder and starring Alistair Sim, George Cole and Joyce Grenfell, which remains the archetypal celluloid visualisation of artist Ronald Searle's comic creation. It's the new term at St. Trinian's - the girl's public school in the heart of England's home-counties, where anyone, other than the pupils themselves, fears to go.
- 4/29/2014
- by CineVue UK
- CineVue
Feature Alex Westthorp 28 Mar 2014 - 07:00
In a new series, Alex talks us through the film roles of the actors who've played the Doctor. First up, William Hartnell and Jon Pertwee...
We know them best as the twelve very different incarnations of the Doctor. But all the actors who've been the star of Doctor Who, being such good all-rounders in the first place, have also had film careers. Admittedly, some CVs are more impressive than others, but this retrospective attempts to pick out some of the many worthwhile films which have starred, featured or seen a fleeting cameo by the actors who would become (or had been) the Doctor.
William Hartnell was, above all else, a film star. He is by far the most prolific film actor of the main twelve to play the Time Lord. With over 70 films to his name, summarising Hartnell's film career is difficult at best.
In a new series, Alex talks us through the film roles of the actors who've played the Doctor. First up, William Hartnell and Jon Pertwee...
We know them best as the twelve very different incarnations of the Doctor. But all the actors who've been the star of Doctor Who, being such good all-rounders in the first place, have also had film careers. Admittedly, some CVs are more impressive than others, but this retrospective attempts to pick out some of the many worthwhile films which have starred, featured or seen a fleeting cameo by the actors who would become (or had been) the Doctor.
William Hartnell was, above all else, a film star. He is by far the most prolific film actor of the main twelve to play the Time Lord. With over 70 films to his name, summarising Hartnell's film career is difficult at best.
- 3/26/2014
- by louisamellor
- Den of Geek
Our mother, Jean Harvey, who has died aged 83, declared at the age of six that she wanted to be an actress. She went on to a successful stage and screen career, receiving widest recognition for her work in television over more than 30 years.
Her most famous role was in Compact (1962), one of the BBC's first soaps, as the editor of the magazine from which the show took its title. She appeared in several classic serials, including North and South (1975) and two versions of Jane Eyre, playing Mrs Reed in the 1973 adaptation and Mrs Fairfax in 1983. Her favourite TV role was as Sally, the wife of Max (George Cole) in A Man of Our Times (1968), for which she received a Bafta nomination.
Jean was born near Birmingham, daughter of Dorothy and Frederick Hillen-Harvey, and studied at the city's Central School of Speech and Drama before joining Birmingham Rep as a junior member,...
Her most famous role was in Compact (1962), one of the BBC's first soaps, as the editor of the magazine from which the show took its title. She appeared in several classic serials, including North and South (1975) and two versions of Jane Eyre, playing Mrs Reed in the 1973 adaptation and Mrs Fairfax in 1983. Her favourite TV role was as Sally, the wife of Max (George Cole) in A Man of Our Times (1968), for which she received a Bafta nomination.
Jean was born near Birmingham, daughter of Dorothy and Frederick Hillen-Harvey, and studied at the city's Central School of Speech and Drama before joining Birmingham Rep as a junior member,...
- 1/28/2014
- The Guardian - Film News
She won Oscars for her Scarlett O'Hara and Blanche DuBois, yet Vivien Leigh – born 100 years ago this month – was always subject to Hollywood's impossible demands on its female stars
Every great Hollywood star is both an actor and the embodiment of a myth. Film transforms them, turning their selves, their presence, their talents, into an individual archetypal narrative, one seen both in their movies but also in the public knowledge of their private lives: wounded Monroe; malleable Audrey Hepburn; James Stewart, the irascible, increasingly neurotic all-American guy. Vivien Leigh is one of Britain's few genuine women "movie stars"; her myth is memorable and dark, her life a rise and fall story, centred on the consequences of what was then called her "manic depression" – around her vulnerability, her promiscuity, her ageing. Her films themselves similarly want to tell us stories about suffering and resilience, about surviving and about being punished for doing so.
Every great Hollywood star is both an actor and the embodiment of a myth. Film transforms them, turning their selves, their presence, their talents, into an individual archetypal narrative, one seen both in their movies but also in the public knowledge of their private lives: wounded Monroe; malleable Audrey Hepburn; James Stewart, the irascible, increasingly neurotic all-American guy. Vivien Leigh is one of Britain's few genuine women "movie stars"; her myth is memorable and dark, her life a rise and fall story, centred on the consequences of what was then called her "manic depression" – around her vulnerability, her promiscuity, her ageing. Her films themselves similarly want to tell us stories about suffering and resilience, about surviving and about being punished for doing so.
- 11/23/2013
- by Michael Newton
- The Guardian - Film News
Star of British film thrillers who specialised in the role of the classy girlfriend
In the 1950s, while watching a second feature before the "big picture" at their local cinema, regular British filmgoers would often have seen Rona Anderson, who has died aged 86. Anderson starred in 20 movies between 1950 and 1958, mostly well-crafted, low-budget thrillers. Opposite such luminaries as Robert Beatty, Jimmy Hanley, John Bentley, Paul Carpenter and Lee Patterson, Anderson was the classy girlfriend who helps the hero solve a murder, usually via a visit to the criminal underground, all within the hour allotted to the film.
According to the Scottish comedian Stanley Baxter, Anderson "had this incredible, porcelain-like face, too beautiful for film … The camera likes angularity, to see the edges, and I think Rona's face was just too perfect." Whatever the reason, Anderson made few major movies, though she appeared in many popular television series, such as The Human Jungle...
In the 1950s, while watching a second feature before the "big picture" at their local cinema, regular British filmgoers would often have seen Rona Anderson, who has died aged 86. Anderson starred in 20 movies between 1950 and 1958, mostly well-crafted, low-budget thrillers. Opposite such luminaries as Robert Beatty, Jimmy Hanley, John Bentley, Paul Carpenter and Lee Patterson, Anderson was the classy girlfriend who helps the hero solve a murder, usually via a visit to the criminal underground, all within the hour allotted to the film.
According to the Scottish comedian Stanley Baxter, Anderson "had this incredible, porcelain-like face, too beautiful for film … The camera likes angularity, to see the edges, and I think Rona's face was just too perfect." Whatever the reason, Anderson made few major movies, though she appeared in many popular television series, such as The Human Jungle...
- 8/9/2013
- by Ronald Bergan
- The Guardian - Film News
Actors from the lavish 1963 classic recall bedlam on set, Richard Burton-Elizabeth Taylor romance ... and paparazzi galore
Jacqui Chan, actor
By the time I was cast as Cleopatra's handmaiden, the whole production had moved from London – where the cold weather had affected Elizabeth Taylor's health – to Rome. Filming restarted from scratch, the script was rewritten and much of the cast replaced. I was unaware of all that behind-the-scenes chaos, but being on set was bedlam. There were hundreds of extras, who had to be lumped together by nationality so the assistant directors could address them en masse in their own languages. It was all a bit crazy.
The sets were as lavish in real life as they appear on screen – no wonder the budget soared out of control. I wore an antique headdress made of beaten gold and coral that belonged in a museum. Whenever my shoot...
Jacqui Chan, actor
By the time I was cast as Cleopatra's handmaiden, the whole production had moved from London – where the cold weather had affected Elizabeth Taylor's health – to Rome. Filming restarted from scratch, the script was rewritten and much of the cast replaced. I was unaware of all that behind-the-scenes chaos, but being on set was bedlam. There were hundreds of extras, who had to be lumped together by nationality so the assistant directors could address them en masse in their own languages. It was all a bit crazy.
The sets were as lavish in real life as they appear on screen – no wonder the budget soared out of control. I wore an antique headdress made of beaten gold and coral that belonged in a museum. Whenever my shoot...
- 7/15/2013
- by Anna Tims
- The Guardian - Film News
Curious to know what movies and TV shows are coming to Netflix Watch Instantly over the next few weeks? Get a head start and mark your calendars using the list below, just released to us by Netflix. Film Avail Now Reincarnated (2012) – Documentary In a cloud of smoke, Vice magazine's Andy Capper follows rapper Snoop Dogg on a pilgrimage to Jamaica, where he experiences a spiritual and commercial transformation, reemerging as Snoop Lion, a reggae artist. Avail 7/1 Cleopatra (1963) – Drama Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, Rex Harrison, Pamela Brown, George Cole, Hume Cronyn This epic saga of love, greed and betrayal stars Elizabeth Taylor as the Egyptian queen who's determined to hold on to the throne and seduces Roman...
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- 6/27/2013
- by Erik Davis
- Movies.com
New horror movies are coming out every week, but we know that there are many horror fans who have not caught up on all of the cult classics. Whether you’ve seen the movie before or this is the first time you’re hearing of it, we think Daily Dead readers will enjoy this cleaned up version of the original trailer for The Vampire Lovers.
“A female vampire with lesbian tendencies ravages the young girls and townsfolk of a peaceful hamlet in eighteenth century Europe who, years earlier, killed off her fellow vampires. A rousing hunt for the vampiress ensues as a group of men follow her bloody trail of terror through the countryside. Adapted from J. Sheridan LeFanu’s novella “Carmilla,” The Vampire Lovers stars Ingrid Pitt, George Cole and Peter Cushing. Now this “rather erotic Hammer chiller” (Leonard Maltin) appears on Blu-ray for the first time… If you dare,...
“A female vampire with lesbian tendencies ravages the young girls and townsfolk of a peaceful hamlet in eighteenth century Europe who, years earlier, killed off her fellow vampires. A rousing hunt for the vampiress ensues as a group of men follow her bloody trail of terror through the countryside. Adapted from J. Sheridan LeFanu’s novella “Carmilla,” The Vampire Lovers stars Ingrid Pitt, George Cole and Peter Cushing. Now this “rather erotic Hammer chiller” (Leonard Maltin) appears on Blu-ray for the first time… If you dare,...
- 4/20/2013
- by Jonathan James
- DailyDead
Scream Factory will bring The Vampire Lovers to Blu-ray next week. If you’re looking forward to the release, we have more information on the new bonus features and a clip. The Vampire Lovers Blu-ray: A female vampire with lesbian tendencies ravages the young girls and townsfolk of a peaceful hamlet in eighteenth century Europe who, years earlier, killed off her fellow vampires. A rousing hunt for the vampiress ensues as a group of men follow her bloody trail of terror through the countryside. Adapted from J. Sheridan LeFanu’s novella “Carmilla,” The Vampire Lovers stars Ingrid Pitt, George Cole and Peter Cushing. Now this “rather erotic Hammer chiller” (Leonard Maltin) appears on Bluray for the first time… If you dare, come into a twilight world of unspeakable horror and taste the deadly passion of the blood-nymphs! Bonus Content:
Feature Length Commentary with Roy Ward Baker (Director), Tudor Gates (Writer...
Feature Length Commentary with Roy Ward Baker (Director), Tudor Gates (Writer...
- 4/18/2013
- by Jonathan James
- DailyDead
Scream Factory has officially announced details for the Blu-ray/DVD Collector’s Edition of Lifeforce and the Blu-ray Collector’s Edition of The Vampire Lovers. Continue reading for cover artwork, details on special features, and pre-order information:
“Horror, sci-fi enthusiasts and movie collectors rejoice! Scream Factory™ will unleash the special effects extravaganza Lifeforce from Director Tobe Hooper (The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, Poltergeist) and The Vampire Lovers from Hammer Film Productions on April 30, 2013. These two much-loved cult film classics debut for the first time on Blu-ray. Lifeforce will be presented as a Collector’s Edition Blu-ray™ + DVD combo pack that boasts the rare original theatrical version of the film (available on the Blu-ray disc only) and its longer international cut, plus newly rendered retro-style artwork and a reversible wrap with original theatrical key art . Both home entertainment collections of Lifeforce and The Vampire Lovers feature high-definition anamorphic widescreen presentations and new exciting bonus content!
“Horror, sci-fi enthusiasts and movie collectors rejoice! Scream Factory™ will unleash the special effects extravaganza Lifeforce from Director Tobe Hooper (The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, Poltergeist) and The Vampire Lovers from Hammer Film Productions on April 30, 2013. These two much-loved cult film classics debut for the first time on Blu-ray. Lifeforce will be presented as a Collector’s Edition Blu-ray™ + DVD combo pack that boasts the rare original theatrical version of the film (available on the Blu-ray disc only) and its longer international cut, plus newly rendered retro-style artwork and a reversible wrap with original theatrical key art . Both home entertainment collections of Lifeforce and The Vampire Lovers feature high-definition anamorphic widescreen presentations and new exciting bonus content!
- 1/4/2013
- by Jonathan James
- DailyDead
Want to talk about being the best at something? Scream Factory is showing no signs of slowing down when it comes to awesome editions of vintage horror flicks we know and love. Bless their black hearts. Up next: the art and info for April's release of Lifeforce and The Vampire Lovers.
From the Press Release:
Horror/sci-fi enthusiasts and movie collectors, rejoice! Scream Factory™ will unleash the special effects extravaganza Lifeforce from director Tobe Hooper (The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, Poltergeist) and The Vampire Lovers from Hammer Film Productions on April 30, 2013. These two much-loved cult film classics debut for the first time on Blu-ray. Lifeforce will be presented as a Collector’s Edition Blu-ray™ + DVD combo pack that boasts the rare original theatrical version of the film (available on the Blu-ray disc only) and its longer international cut, plus newly rendered retro-style artwork and a reversible wrap with original theatrical key art.
From the Press Release:
Horror/sci-fi enthusiasts and movie collectors, rejoice! Scream Factory™ will unleash the special effects extravaganza Lifeforce from director Tobe Hooper (The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, Poltergeist) and The Vampire Lovers from Hammer Film Productions on April 30, 2013. These two much-loved cult film classics debut for the first time on Blu-ray. Lifeforce will be presented as a Collector’s Edition Blu-ray™ + DVD combo pack that boasts the rare original theatrical version of the film (available on the Blu-ray disc only) and its longer international cut, plus newly rendered retro-style artwork and a reversible wrap with original theatrical key art.
- 1/4/2013
- by Uncle Creepy
- DreadCentral.com
The Vampire Lovers is one of the many classic horror films Scream Factory will be releasing to Blu-ray/DVD next year and they have released the official cover artwork. The 1970 film was directed by Roy Ward Baker and starred Ingrid Pitt, George Cole, Kate O’Mara, and Peter Cushing:
“Buxom vamps and bloodthirsty beauties abound in this horror thriller showcasing the netherworld’s most voluptuous vampire! Traveling the countryside searching for victims, Carmilla quenches her thirst for blood with the best-looking maidens she can find. But when she unleashes a murderous sexual massacre on a small town, the local gentry fights back…plotting to drive a stake through the heart of this sexy, savage killer.”
At this time, bonus features have not yet been revealed, but we’ll have more details closer to release. Upcoming titles from Scream Factory include Phantasm II, The Video Dead, Death Valley, The Island,...
“Buxom vamps and bloodthirsty beauties abound in this horror thriller showcasing the netherworld’s most voluptuous vampire! Traveling the countryside searching for victims, Carmilla quenches her thirst for blood with the best-looking maidens she can find. But when she unleashes a murderous sexual massacre on a small town, the local gentry fights back…plotting to drive a stake through the heart of this sexy, savage killer.”
At this time, bonus features have not yet been revealed, but we’ll have more details closer to release. Upcoming titles from Scream Factory include Phantasm II, The Video Dead, Death Valley, The Island,...
- 12/5/2012
- by Jonathan James
- DailyDead
Outstanding actor of stage and screen who made his name as Bri in A Day in the Death of Joe Egg
The British theatre changed for ever when Joe Melia, as the sardonic teacher Bri, pushed a severely disabled 10-year-old girl in a wheelchair on to the stage of the Glasgow Citizens in May 1967 and proceeded to make satirical jokes about the medical profession while his marriage was disintegrating. The play was Peter Nichols's A Day in the Death of Joe Egg, which transformed the way disability was discussed on the stage. It made the names overnight of its author, the director Michael Blakemore, and Melia. Albert Finney took over the role of Bri on Broadway.
Flat-footed, slightly hunched, always leaning towards a point of view, Melia, who has died aged 77, was a distinctive and compassionate actor who brought a strain of the music hall to the stage, a sense of being an outsider.
The British theatre changed for ever when Joe Melia, as the sardonic teacher Bri, pushed a severely disabled 10-year-old girl in a wheelchair on to the stage of the Glasgow Citizens in May 1967 and proceeded to make satirical jokes about the medical profession while his marriage was disintegrating. The play was Peter Nichols's A Day in the Death of Joe Egg, which transformed the way disability was discussed on the stage. It made the names overnight of its author, the director Michael Blakemore, and Melia. Albert Finney took over the role of Bri on Broadway.
Flat-footed, slightly hunched, always leaning towards a point of view, Melia, who has died aged 77, was a distinctive and compassionate actor who brought a strain of the music hall to the stage, a sense of being an outsider.
- 11/7/2012
- by Michael Coveney
- The Guardian - Film News
One of our favorite companies, Scream Factory (of Shout! Factory) has added two more horror titles to the Blu-Ray barrage, each featuring the work of genre favorites Peter Cushing and makeup god Rick Baker.
While there aren’t any details, the following announcement was found on their Fb page today:
Cult classics The Vampire Lovers (1970 – Starring Peter Cushing) and The Incredible Melting Man (1977 – with gooey Rick Baker make-up effects) will both be coming to Blu-ray for the first time next year!
The Vampire Lovers also starred Kate O’Mara, Ingrid Pitt, and George Cole, and featured Blood Nymphs and a poster that warned: “Not for the mentally immature!” So be warned. The Incredible Melting Man just drips of Rick Baker, literally.
This probably means we can expect both titles in 2013, and we’ll definitely update you with specs, special features, and a release date when we find out!
While there aren’t any details, the following announcement was found on their Fb page today:
Cult classics The Vampire Lovers (1970 – Starring Peter Cushing) and The Incredible Melting Man (1977 – with gooey Rick Baker make-up effects) will both be coming to Blu-ray for the first time next year!
The Vampire Lovers also starred Kate O’Mara, Ingrid Pitt, and George Cole, and featured Blood Nymphs and a poster that warned: “Not for the mentally immature!” So be warned. The Incredible Melting Man just drips of Rick Baker, literally.
This probably means we can expect both titles in 2013, and we’ll definitely update you with specs, special features, and a release date when we find out!
- 10/19/2012
- by Andy Greene
- FamousMonsters of Filmland
As part of the Manchester Fringe Festival, our friends at Grimm Up North will be presenting a special day of vampire movies and special guests at The Dancehouse on Oxford Road in Manchester. Read on for the details and schedule.
From the Press Release:
This year is the centenary of Bram Stoker's death. Much respect is due to the creator of one of horror's most enduring icons, the bloody count, Dracula – and so, as part of the 2012 Manchester Fringe Festival, we’re holding a special "Vampire Sunday", over at the decadently deco Dancehouse theatre. Four feature films, special guests, and a cheap bar – it’s a veritable Feast of Blood!
Kicking off the day in style, award-winning Gothic writer and poet Sam Stone, best known for her Vampire Gene novels, will be presenting a reading from her latest work, followed by a Q&A session. So if you have...
From the Press Release:
This year is the centenary of Bram Stoker's death. Much respect is due to the creator of one of horror's most enduring icons, the bloody count, Dracula – and so, as part of the 2012 Manchester Fringe Festival, we’re holding a special "Vampire Sunday", over at the decadently deco Dancehouse theatre. Four feature films, special guests, and a cheap bar – it’s a veritable Feast of Blood!
Kicking off the day in style, award-winning Gothic writer and poet Sam Stone, best known for her Vampire Gene novels, will be presenting a reading from her latest work, followed by a Q&A session. So if you have...
- 7/4/2012
- by The Woman In Black
- DreadCentral.com
Chicago -- Pete Cosey, an innovative guitarist who brought his distinctive distorted sound to recordings with Miles Davis, Howlin' Wolf and Muddy Waters, has died, his daughter said. He was 68.
Cosey died May 30 of complications from surgery at Vanguard Weiss Memorial Hospital in Chicago, said his daughter Mariama Cosey.
Pete Cosey's musical journey began early, his daughter said, noting that Cosey's father died when he was 9 years old.
"That's how he dealt with his father's passing ... and if I had to pick one instance in his life that just really rocked his world, that was it," she said. "I think he tried to spend his time trying to communicate with my granddaddy."
In the 1960s, Cosey was a member of the studio band at Chess Records in Chicago, where he played on Waters' "Electric Mud" and Howlin' Wolf's "Howlin' Wolf Album." Cosey also worked with Etta James and Chuck Berry.
Cosey died May 30 of complications from surgery at Vanguard Weiss Memorial Hospital in Chicago, said his daughter Mariama Cosey.
Pete Cosey's musical journey began early, his daughter said, noting that Cosey's father died when he was 9 years old.
"That's how he dealt with his father's passing ... and if I had to pick one instance in his life that just really rocked his world, that was it," she said. "I think he tried to spend his time trying to communicate with my granddaddy."
In the 1960s, Cosey was a member of the studio band at Chess Records in Chicago, where he played on Waters' "Electric Mud" and Howlin' Wolf's "Howlin' Wolf Album." Cosey also worked with Etta James and Chuck Berry.
- 6/10/2012
- by AP
- Huffington Post
'Cheeky cockney' character actor who graced British screens for more than 60 years
While working on the classic Ealing comedy Hue and Cry in 1947, the actor Harry Fowler, who has died aged 85, was given sage advice by one of his co-stars, Jack Warner: "Never turn anything down … stars come and go but as a character actor, you'll work until you're 90."
Fowler took the suggestion and proved its near veracity. Between his 1942 debut as Ern in Those Kids from Town until television appearances more than 60 years later, he notched up scores of feature films and innumerable TV shows, including three years as Corporal "Flogger" Hoskins in The Army Game.
He never attained star status but created a gallery of sparky characters, including minor villains, servicemen, reporters and tradesmen enriched by an ever-present cheeky smile and an authentic cockney accent. He was Smudge or Smiley, Nipper or Knocker, Bert or 'Orace, as...
While working on the classic Ealing comedy Hue and Cry in 1947, the actor Harry Fowler, who has died aged 85, was given sage advice by one of his co-stars, Jack Warner: "Never turn anything down … stars come and go but as a character actor, you'll work until you're 90."
Fowler took the suggestion and proved its near veracity. Between his 1942 debut as Ern in Those Kids from Town until television appearances more than 60 years later, he notched up scores of feature films and innumerable TV shows, including three years as Corporal "Flogger" Hoskins in The Army Game.
He never attained star status but created a gallery of sparky characters, including minor villains, servicemen, reporters and tradesmen enriched by an ever-present cheeky smile and an authentic cockney accent. He was Smudge or Smiley, Nipper or Knocker, Bert or 'Orace, as...
- 1/5/2012
- by Brian Baxter
- The Guardian - Film News
Curious to know what frightful films and devilish discs will be available to view in the privacy of your own digital dungeon this week? Fango's got you covered.
Below the jump you'll find the full list of titles arriving in-stores this Tuesday, November 3, 2009 in our weekly version of the famous Fangoria Chopping List.
With Halloween behind us, the list of frights is a little light this week, but if you look hard enough you just may find a couple of gems.
Note: Some product descriptions provided by Amazon. Clickable links lead to Amazon.com
Beast Within
Nobody wants them but everybody is watching: from time immemorial, animal fights have been as much looked down upon as they have been loved...
Bleach: Uncut Box Set Season 4, Part 1: The Bounty
The supernatural anime comes to DVD with more soul-sucking adventure.
Bloody Beach
One summer day, eight members of an internet chatters club,...
Below the jump you'll find the full list of titles arriving in-stores this Tuesday, November 3, 2009 in our weekly version of the famous Fangoria Chopping List.
With Halloween behind us, the list of frights is a little light this week, but if you look hard enough you just may find a couple of gems.
Note: Some product descriptions provided by Amazon. Clickable links lead to Amazon.com
Beast Within
Nobody wants them but everybody is watching: from time immemorial, animal fights have been as much looked down upon as they have been loved...
Bleach: Uncut Box Set Season 4, Part 1: The Bounty
The supernatural anime comes to DVD with more soul-sucking adventure.
Bloody Beach
One summer day, eight members of an internet chatters club,...
- 11/1/2009
- by no-reply@fangoria.com (James Zahn)
- Fangoria
The revival of Minder made a decent - if unspectacular - start for Five last night (Wednesday), early figures suggest. The new version of the classic caper, starring Shane Richie in the George Cole role, averaged 2.4m (9.6%) for Five in the 9pm hour. The figure is strong for Five - particularly for an original commission - but the channel was still last place in the timeslot. ITV1 dominated primetime, with an average of 6.18m (26.2%) for its coverage of Everton vs Liverpool in the fourth round of the Fa Cup. Channel 4 was second in the 9pm hour, with 3.82m (15.2%) for Grand Designs, while BBC One managed 3.35m (13.4%) for a New Tricks repeat. The first part of documentary Terry Pratchett: Living With Alzheimer's drew 2.6m (10.4%). This week's visit to Waterloo Road picked up 4.34m (17.2%) for BBC One in the 8pm hour, and on (more)...
- 2/5/2009
- by By Neil Wilkes
- Digital Spy
Veteran actor George Cole has said that he is "not happy" with Five's revival of Minder. Cole, who played wheeler-dealer Arthur Daley in the original show, claimed that the producers hadn't consulted him or co-star Dennis Waterman about the remake. The original Minder aired on ITV for ten series between 1979 and 1994. "Audiences remember Minder as me and Dennis, but neither of us has been given any input," he told The Sun. (more)...
- 1/26/2009
- by By Alex Fletcher
- Digital Spy
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