Pictures

I can't comment helpfully on this title, but will do so nevertheless. I was 7 years old when this miniseries was shown Sunday mornings on PBS's "Masterpiece Theatre," right after "Zoom!" and "Viva Allegre!" Since there were no cartoons on the air (this being the early Reagen years, and 24-hour cartoon channels an utter pipe dream), I started watching this just to keep watching TV; and then fell in love with the story. I don't remember the story, 25 years later: something about the British movie industry in the '20s, and a charming flapper played by an actress resembling the young Emily Lloyd who charmingly and unflappingly achieves success in said industry. I still remember the theme song, though; and if this ever shows up again on the air, I'll watch it again with great affection.

I just saw this on DVD for the first time since it's initial run on PBS a quarter century ago. Amazingly, it's as good as I remember it, mixing comedy, romance and drama with a marvelous cast and terrific dialogue. I'd say it's close to as good as "Flickers," a companion series also written by Roy Clarke-- the biggest advantage that series has are two full-throttle performances by Bob Hoskins and Frances de la Tour. "Pictures" doesn't go quite that broad.

If you see it, pay special attention to the score: not only is it one of the best evocations of the 20's sound around, but the composer created subtle variations on the basic music for the end titles of each of the seven episodes, each reflecting the story in some way. Listen for the snippet of "Hungarian" music at the end of Episode 5.

And watch for Anton Rodgers as the splendidly boiled ham, Godfrey Forbes Lawson.

Biggest drawback: Harry Towb as Ziggy Olman starts out funny but just starts to grate after a while. Not much of a drawback.

Lots of fun.

A charming mini-series about an enthusiastic flapper who wants to break into pictures. Very well-done, from casting to sets & costumes. Some of the stock characters of the 20's are provided, including the homesick ex-pat American and a down-on-his-luck writer.There are funny, absorbing situations and a good love story. I recommend it highly!