zebulonguy

Cluff is a fine example of the sort of series the BBC did so well in the 60s and 70s. Based on the books by Gil North. The wonderful thing about this series is that North actually wrote every single episode himself. Leslie Sands is quite brilliant and believable. It's a bygone world set in a Yorkshire village that even in the 60s is behind the times. Michael Bates is inspector Mole in the second series and is a brilliant character for Cluff to play off and tangle with. The most insignificant little thing becomes a clue for Cluff who can investigate anything from a lost frozen chicken to a murder and always very interesting. I doubt these will ever be released to dvd, more is the pity because having the opportunity to view the second series I found it totally engrossing. Atmospheric, evocative and entertaining, what more can you ask?

Truly remarkable episode in which Eric Fleming proves what a fine actor he truly was. The drovers reach their destination but whilst Favor is being wined and dined they are turned away from hotels, saloons, restaurants and even the barbers. The snobs that now run this town want the beef but regard the drovers as ignorant scum. This results in the drover's feeling dejected and militant. When Favor finally finds out what is going on it results in a superb scene for Eric Fleming. He delivers a heart felt speech informing us of how the drovers battle through the tough drives to bring them the cattle and then are regarded as unimportant and treated as tramps by just about every business. So Favor takes the cattle elsewhere. Eric Fleming fans just have to view this episode. I , myself loved every minute and have to give it a 10.

This is a beautiful, little short film that features the wonderful John Carson in his film farewell.. He plays David, a tired pensioner , clearly unhappy with his life who comes to live with his sister. He brings along his best friend, his little dog. David is clearly having trouble settling in and also has unhappy memories of his father. He picks up a picture at a car boot sale and this brings good memories flooding back, and is this picture somehow magical or just David's imagination?

John Carson gives a touching performance here and captures perfectly the sadness of his character. It's well worth a look to catch his farewell, it's beautifully told. All the other actors are perfect and if only this little film was more widely available. It's thoroughly recommend especially if you are an admirer of the late John Carson.