dho-2

One of the finest British TV comedies. Superb performances from both Callow and the very versatile Brenda Blethyn. Each episode managed to combine the most far-fetched coincidences with beautifully crafted dialogue, resulting in mini masterpieces. Blethyn's portrayal of librarian Alison Little should have dispelled all ideas of them as stuffy old maids! The Library Association really should have signed her up as a recruiter. It just baffles me why this hasn't been released on DVD yet. There are enough examples of the typical weak sort of stuff that passes for sitcoms being produced on DVD - time for some real quality. If there are no recordings in the archives the culprit should be hunted down and forced to watch endless episodes of Sorry.

One of the funniest films you are likely to see about the cold war. But it doesn't matter if you only watch this for the comedy because the characterisations are excellent. Arkin in particular demonstrates what a fine actor he is. The plot may seem a bit far-fetched, but if you remember how close the world came to disaster during the Cuban missile crisis, it could well have happened.

My wife has asked me to place this comment for her! She watches the film principally for Sam Waterston but is captivated by the stunning and convincing performance of De'voreaux White as Jack.

If you like cello music, sobbing and great acting, make a point of watching.

A TV movie that deserves to be better known - in Britain it tends to be an afternoon movie on Channel 5 with a probable audience of a few dozen.