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misterfarkyharse
Reviews
Crescendo (1970)
Worth A Look At !
This is one of those films that rarely gets a good review. In fact it's been pretty much forgotten! It probably isn't one of Hammer's greatest achievements but it is by no means one of the worst. There are some rather uneventful scenes but I think they add to the suspense. The photography is very effective in places and the setting is quite haunting in a picturesque kind of way. The music which obviously is a major part of the story also adds to the more sinister scenes. The best performance comes from the seductive and eccentric maid, Lilliane (played by Jane Lapotaire) and Joss Ackland also puts in a fine performance as Carter (the butler/minder). It is not available on DVD and probably never will be, so if it's ever shown on TV it's certainly worth a look at.
What a Carve Up! (1961)
Probably the best of it's genre !
What is it about these old black and white comedies which makes you want to watch them over and over again? I think that us brits have a real talent for the old spoof/comedy horror and this, in my opinion is the finest.
Kenneth Connor plays 'Ernest Broughton', a cowardly proof reader who finds he is a beneficiary to his late Uncle Gabriel's estate. Alongside him is Sid James who plays 'Sidney Butler' , his scheming, but tolerant flatmate. These two are excellent, playing the parts to their strengths as they go to 'Blackshore Towers' for the reading of Gabriels will.
The supporting cast of Shirley Eaton, Dennis Price and Esma Cannon are superb, each playing parts which are perfectly suited to their own individual styles, whilst Michael Gough gives a great portrayal of 'Fisk', the sinister old butler. There is also a great performance by Donald Pleasence as 'Everet Sloane' the solicitor acting on behalf of the deceased.
If you are a fan of this type of film then you won't be disappointed. It is up there with 'The house in Nightmare Park' and 'The old dark house', only better in my opinion. Sadly though, it is not available on DVD and has been deleted on VHS, but it does crop up on TV occasionally. If you haven't already seen it then keep an eye on your TV guide for it and set the video for, in my opinion, one of the most watchable britcoms of all time.