Under Milk Wood

There is no way on earth that this film can ever compare visually with the lyrical lines written by Dylan Thomas.

Although it is nice to hear Burton speak the words of his great idol, the inclusion of Elizabeth Taylor as Rosie Probert is a mistake.

Full marks to Peter O'Toole for a fine effort as Captain Cat.

Dylan Thomas' play for voices has always worked best as a radio text, where its rich poetry can be fully appreciated. This film version is indeed true to the text but as a visual medium, is saddled with the need to open out and show scenes as described in the text - with sometimes risible results.

However, there are certain strengths that even the filmed treatment can't ruin. Chief amongst these are Peter O'Toole's interpretation of the blind Captain Cat, dreaming of his lost love, Rosie Probert (played by an overly made-up Elizabeth Taylor); and O'Toole's then wife, Sian Phillips, as Mrs Ogmore-Pritchard, abusing both her dead husbands as they lie with her. Polly Garter and Myfanwy Price, Thomas' corrupt and innocent, are well-played by Ann Beach and Glynis Johns.

Richard Burton is 1st Voice, as he was in the memorable radio production of the 1950s. But here he is also a malevolent presence wandering quietly round the village of Llareggub, influencing the action at some points (the scene in the barn seemed out-of-place and slowed the pace of this film). I'm not knocking Burton's voice, which was superb for the material, but perhaps his presence would have been better restricted to a narrator.

This film is cool, but the 17 year old looks about 30. I think the film is at times bizarre but at other times an everyday life story. Elizabeth Taylor (Butterfield 8) is badly cast but O'Toole is fantastic as the blind fisherman. Never sentimental, at times a little hard going, but rewarding. Not worth watching for anyone under 15 though, very difficult bits involved, even if you are very clever.

Conceived for the voice, and easily obtainable on BBC compact disc with the wonderful voice of our Stranger here, Richard Burton, this film of UNDER MILK WOOD still has a lot to offer. Poetry is for the imaginative eye, but Burton and O'Toole give nice performances, and who would like to mis Rosie Probert, who passed away but forgot dying, on the silver screen ? Forest leaves, cobble stones, rippling waves and Elizabeth Taylor make this film exciting. Not to forget the voices of course; the voices...

a beautiful adaptation of Dylan Thomas' "Play for Voices". An amazing cast, beautifully shot by people passionate about the project. Do notice the "second voice", the wonderful late and much lamented Ryan Davies, an actor and comedian revered here in Wales, probably the biggest star who never became known outside his own country, he sadly died in 77 at a tragically young age, 42 i believe. An educated and cultured man, his loss was a dreadful blow to all of Wales. Also look out for a very young David Jason as "no-good Boy" and topless performances from a young Susan Penhaligan and Ruth Madoc!

So much to see in this film there just arent enough words! Peter O'Toole was brilliant as Captain Cat, and Elizabeth Taylor wonderful as raunchy Rosie....vulnerable, sexy, sad all in one delicious bundle! Do try to catch this film...you wont be disappointed.