Customer Reviews

As Time Goes By - Vol. 2 [VHS]

5 star:		(11)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

The second volume of this British drama-comedy sees the further set-up of basic tensions that will run through the entire six-season series. Here, though, the emphasis shifts somewhat away from the basic Lionel-Jean storyline, and fleshes out both the secondary series plotline and relationships with the supporting cast.

That secondary plot has to do with Lionel's somewhat questionable writing talent. In the middle episode on this tape, romance gets pushed aside somewhat as Jean has to inform Lionel that his characters lack passion. When Alastair confirms Jean's assessment, Lionel is forced, not for the last time in the series, to painfully (and comically) revisit his work.

Of course, the real substance of these three episodes is in the development of the secondary characters. We get a better impression here of Alastair, Lionel's book agent and Jean's would-be suitor. Judith, Jean's daughter, is also greatly amplified in these episodes, with Lionel attempting to move his affections from mother to daughter, and the daughter, in the "Picnic" episode, eventually transferring her affections elsewhere.

Indeed, these three episodes are perhaps best thought of as having to do with misdirected love. And though much is left unresolved by the end of the last episode (which also ended the first season), Lionel and Jean are forced to admit that they have more in common than just their 40-year old wartime love story. It was an intriguing enough ending to ensure that the BBC renew for a second season, and it's certainly enough to make you order volume three of this outstanding series.

I have been immersed in this Brit Com since I first watched Video I and then had to buy II. I have also taped (just about) every episode from PBS tv! I feel as if I know these people...at least would want to know them! Who would not want to live in that household? If I were Sandy I would definitely stay on even if Judy moves out to marry Alistar! After one watches all these episodes you will crave for more! And never tire of watching the shows over and over! The English vocabulary is a pleasure! I cannot get enough of the series...not only the most romantic story-line..dialogue but do not overlook the home decor! Isn't is fabulous! The kitchen I could live in forever and the kitchen out at Lionel's manor one could die in! I recommend these tapes as the best ever!

This is absolutely the most wonderfully written and acted British comedy series ever aired in the US! And between Geoffrey Palmer as Lionel and Philip Bretherton as Alistair (who happens to be gorgeous), I cannot imagine a show with handsomer leading men! Of course, Judi Dench is no slouch either and Moira Brooker is really charming, so there's an excellent cast. The writing is very good - subtle humor and warmth that you don't normally get from Britcoms. I can't help but gush - buy all of the videos and get to know these people!

With recent Oscar winner Judi Dench in the lead, Geoffrey Palmer as her long sweetheart and scripts by that great Britcom wordsmith Bob Larbey, this series is a pure delight for viewers who want substance and quality in a television show. The premise is that two young lovers who lost touch during the Korean War meet again after a 38 year separation. Watching the new relationship unfold in each episode is a treat for all ages. This series which began in 1992 on the BBC will start taping its 8th season soon. Believe me, if you watch the first 11 episodes, you will fall in love with the characters and want more. Philip Bertherton, Moira Booker, Jenny Funnell, Frank Middlemass, Joan Sims and Janet Henfrey round out a truly remarkable cast.

I love every one of the volumes in this series. Series acting has never been so good and the writing is also superb. The price is hefty, but I don't regret it for a second. These episodes are definitely worth watching many times. My only complaint is - Where's the DVD version? Why is BBC wasting time only releasing VHS?

"As Time Goes By" is a truly charming series. These episodes chronicle the present day relationship between a couple who fell in love 38 years earlier but lost touch. Judi Dench and Geoffrey Palmer portray the lead characters skillfully and with obvious enjoyment. The humor is not forced but comes from every day situations. The dialog is witty; the situations realistic. This is a series in which the characters seem to genuinely like each other and care about each other. Take a look and you'll be captivated.

"As Time Goes By" is truly one of the finest television series I have ever seen, American, British or otherwise. The acting is terrific and the writing very clever and funny. I hope there will be more videos very soon!

This series is truly wonderful! The characters are warm and funny, and there is actually a PLOT, unlike most series. At the end of each episode, the viewer is eager to learn more about Jean and Lionel. As Alistair says, "Hey, hey!" Highly recommended for those who enjoy quality acting.

As with all programmes written by Bob Larbey, "As Time Goes By" is pure excellence. Judi Dench and Geoffrey Palmer give flawless performances. Larbey's writing is witty and fresh, and the premise of the show unique. Larbey's genuis, acheived in other shows such as "The Good Life", shines through. "As Time Goes By" is one of the finest programmes ever to be broadcast anywhere. If you enjoy British comedy, you won't be disappointed.

The further adventures (or mis-adventures) of Jean & Lionel are hysterical! There are so many "bumps" on their road to true love. This is surely one of the better Brit-Coms. I can't wait for the rest of the series to be out on video!