Camelot

I am disappointed, when I like something, to immediately come upon a bad comment the first thing I read comments. I loved this version much better than the movie as the lady who did Guinevere really had a beautiful voice and was much lovelier than the screen version. Richard Harris was delightful and would have only been surpassed by Richard Burton, who originally did the play on Broadway. (Julie Andrews should have been in the movie) The man who did King Pellinore did a wonderful job and Merlin was also played well. I got a lot more enjoyment out of the play. Somehow it was like being in the theater. Since I never get to go to plays, this is a marvelous way to view them. I think that anyone who does not like musicals should never review them as it will always be with criticism. See it if you get a chance, although it is difficult to get a copy.

I love the Arthur story in all its incarnations and I love musicals so what could be better?! This movie is great way to see all the nuances of the performance. I saw this tour on stage and doing it live they left out some of the little tidbits that were captured in the taped version. Now if someone could tell me where to get a copy I would be indebted!!!!!!

I have seen many performances of Camelot, and this is by far the best. I hope it will soon be released on DVD so everyone can enjoy this truly fabulous production! The "film" versions of Broadway musicals have always lacked the special feeling of "live theater"- but this production truly captures the unique feeling of the New York stage.

This 1982 Stage production of 'Camelot" as filmed for HBO is about as perfect an adaptation of the Lerner and Loewe musical as you will ever see. The set design and lighting captures the magic of the piece brilliantly. Richard Harris was born to play King Arthur and he is even better here than in the 1967 film version. Full of passion,wistful humor and majesty His performance borders of the Shakespearean. Meg Bussert is a perfect Guenevere,Pretty,impudent and later heartbreaking. Her singing voice is wonderful and is excellently used in the production. Richard Muenz makes Lancelot funny at every turn during his well delivered "Ces't Moi" number and has some masterful double takes,Later he is touching as the dream of Camelot unravels due to his infidelity with the Queen. Barrie Ingham is the epitome of the the comical King Pellinore and nearly steals every scene he is in.Richar Backus is evil personified as Mordred (His "7 Deadly Vitues' number is one of my favorite moments) and James Valentine is a hammy and thunderous Merlyn.

Highlights of the production are Harris' touching "Hoe To Handle A Woman" Bussert's show stopping "Simple Joys Of Maidenhood" and The rousing 'Guenevere" chorus lead by William Parry's Sir Dinadin. Although I like the film version quite a lot,this Broadway production captured on tape is a gem to be treasured. To bad its not available on Video or DVD.

I saw this version back when it first appeared on HBO and have never forgotten it. I hope they release it on DVD some day as I much prefer it to the earlier film version, which was much too dark and weighty. The added scenes enhance the continuity of the play, and the convoluted relationships of the story are much easier to grasp.

Ms. Bussert portrays a delightful Queen Guenevere. Her interpretation makes the role genuine and sympathetic as she matures from a naive romantic to a woman who is torn apart by her loyalty to Arthur and her passion for Lancelot.

My only regret is that I had not taped this 20 years ago.