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Pennies From Heaven  Hot
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Written by Staff Writer   
Monday, 24 January 2005


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Pennies From Heaven

Grade

Content Grade: B
Sound Grade: B
Extras Grade: C
Picture Grade: B

Specs

BBC Video/Warner Home Video Fullscreen English Dolby Digital mono closed-captioned 517mins., color, 1978 For mature audiences because of themes

Review

This British mini-series was a star vehicle for Bob Hoskins and is dubbed "one of the best television series ever produced" expectations for viewers is high. Written by acclaimed "The Singing Detective" writer Dennis Potter this depression era drama and musical is a complex and thought provoking film with many memorable scenes and contrasts.
The three disc set deals with a sheet music salesman (Hoskins) who witnesses and is involved with several life changing experiences, including rape, prostitution, bankruptcy to name a few. Hoskins finds his music to be an escape and a life reaffirming redemption for his character. Set in Depression-era England, the drama is a mixture of people's misfortunes of the time and lavish Busby Berkley musical numbers. The music for Hoskins is what life is all about despite his troubles. Excellent performances by Hoskins accompanied by Gemma Craven make this musical drama outstanding television but not for the kiddies

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Picture and Sound

The transfer shows a bit of age with some graininess in scenes but is an acceptable picture for the most part. The musical numbers are a visual delight. Sound unfortunately is mono-this disc set should have at least been stereo, especially with all the music involved.

Extras

Commentary is provided by director Piers Haggard and producer Kenith Trodd but very little else is provided. Poor for a three disc set. Lots of potential for other extras including interviews with cast members, a history of the Depression-era in England, and much more. Very disappointing.

Summary

This mini-series, which was the basis of the 1981 Steve Martin film, obviously gives us much more by shear length and benefits from better character development and elaborate musical numbers. An extraordinary mixture of up and down scenes, "Pennies From Heaven" is not for everyone but is an interesting view for people looking for something different.

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