Dear Octopus

This film is imprinted on my memory although I have not seen it for decades. It is a very human and moving story of the relationships within a family - over a Christmas I seem to remember. The acting is superb and the film features several extremely well-known actors of the time. In particular I remember the two grandchildren, one of whom says he/she has learnt a naughty word. When she tells the other one what it is he/she uses the word when all the adults are standing around and is puzzled when none of them shows any distress. I'll leave it to you to discover the naughty word used. Notes for this film say that it has not been released on DVD. Pity - I would buy one.

For those of you who wish you can now view a digital copy at the BF I mediatheque on the South Bank.

It is based on a stage play typical of the era. A family getting together,the Octopus,for some reason,here a golden wedding celebration.

All the occupants of the house speak in home counties accents whilst the villagers have regional accents

All they ever do in the house is talk and talk to a very static camera.

A very strong cast is unable to bring the material to life. No wonder this is one of the few Margaret Lockwood films that has not,to the best of my k knowledge been shown on tv or issued on DVD.