Customer Reviews

P. D. James - Devices and Desires, Vol. 1 - 6 [VHS]

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Popular mystery author P.D. James' novels are very complex and revel in the psychological textures of her characters, making them difficult to translate to the screen. British TV has usually done a masterful job. "Devices and Desires" is easily James' most complex novel, and this lengthy adapation just about does it justice, though is a little sparse in places. It helps to have veteran British actor Roy Marsden returning as James' character, Scotland Yard's Commander Adam Dalgliesh. Dalgliesh is an instrospective character, and Marsden is exceptional in his use of a wide range of facial expressions to convey the man's inner thoughts - he does it convincingly and with great presence without ever resorting to hammy "mugging" for the camera. Great viewing for those who appreciate psychological suspense.

Devices and Desires is set in a picturesque English cove - save the massive nuclear power plant station contaminating the view. Dalgleish is there to sort out his inheritance from a recently deceased aunt who had lived there. However, he encounters an odd variety of people, some very likable, others despicable, and quite a few holding deep, dark secrets.

First of all, there is the problem of The Whistler, a serial killer who whistles a hymn while strangling his victims. He has already struck at least five times, one of them being a fifteen year old girl (that part is obviously very heart wrenching and scary!) Second of all, there is the strange problem with the nuclear power plant. One of the employees seems incredibly frustrated and distressed about the futute of the plant, but his boss and fellow employees cover it up by brushing it off and telling him to keep silent. Meanwhile, there is the anti-nuclear activist group who may be involved in terrorism. It is gradually being joined by some of the people who work at the plant.

The Whistler strikes again, killing two female employees of the nuclear power station. Or, was it him? One of the killings certainly was, but the other is a bit unclear. The unclear death was a beautiful, intelligent, and witch of a woman who manipulated anyone she came across.

There are lots of suspects. An alcoholic widower with a family to support, the head of the nuclear station, his sister, and a young environmentalist are just a few. This is far from a neat story with suicides and about ten murders. There are also incredibly adult themes such as incest, bisexuality, and the gross mark The Whistler puts on his bodies. Devices and Desires, however, is an amazing production with its complexity, excellent acting, and harsh realities.

this is one of the best of P D Janes adaptations! although an expensive purchase, this multilayerd story of incest, murder, anti nuclear power station activies and conservations issues abounds with interest. Again Veteran English Actor Roy Marsden puts in an inpeccable performance as Adam Dalgliesh. the feminine interest in the tale is well portrayed by Susannah York, another veteran of the Biritish stage - and theses talents show! A great purchase, which with re-viewing only enhances the pleasure of what the Brits can serve up!