candid22

This was completely harmless and unbelievable, but a pleasant enough way to pass a Sunday evening. I've not seen all the previous Hornblowers, but I would not rate this as highly as the earlier ones from the late 80's. The series has improved greatly with the addition of Paul McGann as Bush, Hornblower's friend and second in command. Paul McGann is always watchable in anything and has a gorgeous voice to match. He is wonderful to listen to while Gruffudd is true eyecandy.

Julia Sawalha was a poor choice as Hornblower's wife. She is 5 years older than Gruffudd and looks every bit of it. (Perhaps she is supposed to be older than him?) Nonetheless, I found it disappointing that Hornblower marries so unhappily. It would have been nice to have seen a bit of romance and passion there. But perhaps the true relationship of this series is between Hornblower and Bush.

So pleasant enough, but don't go expecting too much and certainly don't expect authentic American and French accents!

This film was just released on video and I was glad to see it, since it had come and gone thru the cinemas rather quickly.

If you are looking for a breezy, lighthearted comedy in the style of the Full Monty (i.e. quirky, amusing British characters) then this is the film for you. It is not a film that will have you rolling on the floor but then I don't believe every comedy has to be that. Just to smile and chuckle at the plot is enough for me. I found the best laughs came from the musical NELSON and the clever song lyrics (which were penned by Stephen Fry).

I thought James Nesbitt made a wonderful lead and was just as appealing here as in Cold Feet. The romance between him and Olivia Williams was entirely believable - especially as he was such a petty criminal. And the end credits were quite heartwarming and thoroughly satisfying.

If you liked Full Monty and Waking Ned, then you'll love this film - a quirky character film as only the British can do.