JOAN OF ARC - The Messenger
The epic story of a woman who followed her own path and changed the course of history

In 1429 a teenage girl from a remote French village stood before her king with a message she claimed came from God; that she would defeat the world's greatest army and liberate her country from its political and religious turmoil. As this small voice in the heart of a simple country girl became stronger, rulers were drawn to listen, armies empowered to fight and her countrymen inspired to believe.

Following her mission to reclaim God's diminished kingdom - through her amazing victories until her violent and untimely death - the life of Joan of Arc is explored in this startling epic.

Starring Milla Jovovich, John Malkovich, Faye Dunnaway and Dustin Hoffman. Directed by Luc Besson.

Certificate 15.

JOHN WYCLIFFE - The Morning Star
Wycliffe risked his life translating the Bible for the first time into English. Although given protection - by John of Gaunt and the Queen Mother - from the Church who proclaimed his work illegal, he was ousted from his teaching post at Oxford and barred from the university libraries. Exiled to his parish of Lutterworth, he saw the work completed before his death in 1384.

This award-winning film gives valuable insight into the 14th century church, and begins the extraordinary story of how the Bible came to England in the language of the people.

A Grenville/Gateway production, shown on Channel Four Television, directed by Tony Tew.

Please direct trade orders to CLC Wholesale.

This film is also available on special offer with GOD'S OUTLAW under the title of The Wordsmiths.

See also the Wycliffe edition of Christian History Magazine.

The Normans

WILLIAM THE CONQUEROR
A unique portrait of a remarkable man who was at once a great warrior and a ruthless politician and statesman.

Architect of the Doomsday Book, builder of countless beautiful churches and castles, William the Conqueror's reign truly shaped the future of England and gave rise to the new ruling class of Norman Barons.

Narrated by Bob Sessions, with analysis from Military Historian Dr David Chandler and using dramatic reconstructions, this DVD offers an excellent overview of William's achievements.

Exempt from Classification.

The Dark Ages

ALFRED THE GREAT
In an age and country blighted by Viking invasions, Alfred inflicted repeated defeats on the Norsemen and set about administrating the Danelaw to secure the unity of England. He is credited too with forming a standing army and building a recognised navy.

Not only a great military leader, Alfred was also a deeply religious man, a scholar and a lawmaker.

Featuring atmospheric dramatised reconstructions, period imagery and 'eye witness' reports, this programme provides a unique account of the life of one of England's truly great monarchs.

Exempt from Classification.

The Romans

LOST TREASURES OF THE ANCIENT WORLD - HADRIAN'S WALL
A visit to Britain nearly 2000 years ago when the mighty Roman legions had swept all before them as far as a line between the Tyne and West Cumbria. Here Hadrian built his wall to protect his hard won gains from the wild and unruly Scots.

Using atmospheric reconstructions and re-enactments, plus state-of-the-art 3D computer graphics, the wall unravels before us to reveal the original splendour of one of the great lost treasures of the ancient world.

Made in association with English Heritage.

Exempt from Classification.

Greeks & Egyptians

GREAT WONDERS OF THE MODERN WORLD - THE EGYPTIAN PYRAMIDS
Exploring the story behind the most spectacular structures ever built.

Constructed over a span of more than a thousand years as tombs for the ancient pharaohs, over one hundred pyramids stand in Egypt as cultural and engineering marvels of staggering proportions.

We look back in time to investigate their evolution, from the first primitive efforts to magnificent works such as the Step Pyramid, Bent Pyramid and the great masterpieces of Giza, the Necropolis.

From the History Channel.

Exempt from classification.

Ireland

A Short History of Ireland
A superb introduction to one of the world's most magical, beautiful and historically rich countries.

Never part of the Roman Empire, for much of its history it was relatively isolated and during medieval times was no more than an autonomous region at the margin of English royal power.

From the time of the Celts to the Williamite War and from the rise of O'Connell to the Easter Rising and the revolutionary Michael Collins, this film offers an intriguing overview of a country and a people that have made a distinctive and lasting contribution to our world.

Certificate E (exempt)

Africa

HOTEL RWANDA
In 1994, almost unnoticed by the rest of the world, some of the most dreadful atrocities were taking place in the small African nation of Rwanda. In only three months a million people were brutally murdered.

In the face of these unspeakable events - and inspired by love for his family - an ordinary man summoned extraordinary courage to save the lives of over a thousand helpless refugees by allowing them to shelter in the hotel he managed.

With three Academy Award nominations, this is a remarkable and deeply moving film.

Starring Don Cheadle, Sophie Okenedo and Nick Nolte.

Certificate 12.

CRY FREEDOM
The tension and terror of the former South African regime is powerfully portrayed by Richard Attenborough in his sweeping true story of black activist Stephen Biko (Denzel Washington) and liberal white journalist Donald Woods (Kevin Kline) who risked his life to bring Biko's story to the world.

An explosive, emotional and thrilling film slowly reveals the true horrors of apartheid through Biko's eyes. It offers a stirring account of man both at his most evil and at his most heroic.

Certificate PG.

NELSON MANDELA - Man of Forgiveness
The moving story of Nelson Mandela and his struggle against apartheid in South Africa. Despite prejudice, persecution and injustice, forgiveness is possible.

GOODBYE BAFANA
Based on an inspiational true story, 'Goodbye Bafana' traces the unlikely but profound relationship between James Gregory, a racist South African jailer, and his prisoner Nelson Mandela.

No one expected that a friendship could grow between these two very diferent men but through Mandela's influence, Gregory's world would change forever. A moving message of hope, courage and humanity.

Starring Joseph Fiennes, Dennis Haysbert and Diane Kruger.

Certificate 15.

MANDELA AND DE KLERK
Sidney Poitier and Michael Caine play the title roles in this much acclaimed film telling of the ending of apartheid in South Africa.

It tells the story of Nelson Mandela, from his years as a revolutionary, through his long incarceration to his election as South African President.

With Poitier's Mandela showing great dignity and resolve - and with Caine's De Klerk depicting the altruism and pragmatism that induced him to surrender to destiny - this film is both a moving and authentic recreation of recent living history.

Certificate PG.

See also:
'Nelson Mandela: Man of Forgiveness' (D180)

IN MY COUNTRY
In 1996 the South African government established the Truth & Reconciliation Commission to investigate abuses of human rights. under apartheid. These hearings would serve as a forum for those accused of murder and torture to be confronted by their victims and, by admitting their guilt, be granted amnesty under Ubuntu, the native custom of forgiveness.

Covering the hearings are Langston Whitfield and Anna Malan, two journalists who, through their reporting, inspire both the world and themselves with these extraordinary stories of courage, compassion and the redeeming power of love.

Based on true events.

Directed by John Boorman and starring Juliette Binoche and Samuel L Jackson.

Based on the book 'Country of my Skull' by Antjie Krog.

Certificate 15.

AMAZING GRACE
The inspiring story of William Wilberforce and his tireless campaign to abolish slavery.

At a time when the slave trade was not only seen as acceptable but as an economic necessity, Wilberforce and his fellow abolitionists dared to speak out against a massive injustice.

Starring Ioan Gruffudd, Ciaran Hinds, Michael Gambon and Albert Finney.

Certificate PG

ENGLISH - DVDs

Shakespeare Plays

AS YOU LIKE IT - BBC tv
Banished young lovers Orlando and Rosalind escape to the Forest of Arden with their friends and servants. In this idyllic setting they find the simple life confused by entangled love affairs, cross-dressing, love poems and even a lion ....

Helen Mirren and Brian Sterner star as Rosalind and Orlando in one of Shakespeare's most popluar comedies. Considering the delights of love, the nature of human experience and the contrast between life in the court and the country. Shakespeare fills the romantic plot with both humourous and clever wordplay.

Also starring Angharad Rees and James Bolam.

Certificate U.

HAMLET - Mel Gibson / Glenn Close
Director Franco Zeffirelli teamed up with Mel Gibson for this energetic, earthy adaptation of the classic Shakespeare tragedy. Gibson brings real gusto to Hamlet's anguish, and makes this full-blooded version roar with life.

Glenn Close as his mother and Helena Bonham-Carter as Ophelia lend excellent support. This is Shakespeare with teeth; it should please both students and casual filmgoers.

Cartificate PG

HENRY IV - Part One - BBC tv
These are troubled times for King Henry. His son, Prince Harry, acts more like a rogue than a prince, keeping the company of drunken highway robber Falstaff and other unreputable characters.

Meanwhile, from the north, come rumours of a rebellion led by the son of the Percy family, the valliant Hotspur.

One of Shakespeare's most celebrated dramatic achievements, this play mixes history and comedy effortlessly, moving from scenes of royalty to rough drinking dens with ease. This production matches its superb characters with great actors, particularly evident is Anthony Quayle's magnificent Falstaff.

The cast also includes:
David Gwillim (Prince Henry)
Jon Finch (Henry IV)
Tim Pigott-Smith (Hotspur)
Bruce Purchase (Northumberland)
Brenda Bruse (Mistress Quickly)
Michele Dotrice (Lady Percy)

Certificate U.

HENRY IV - Part Two - BBC tv
Rumours fly around England as Henry's war with his barons continues. Falstaff quarrels with the agents of law and order, confident in his friendship with Prince Harry. Will it be "woe to the Lord Chief Justice" when Harry becomes Henry V ?

Retaining the same cast and Director as Part One, this production assuredly charts the transformation of the Prince. It reflects the play's darker and more intimate focus, but contrasts it with colourful scenes from Falstaff's Eastcheap.

Certificate U.

KING LEAR (Olivier)
Laurence Olivier won an Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actor for his forceful and compelling performance as Lear in what is arguably Shakespeare's greatest tragedy - a story of misplaced trust, filial ingratitude, envy and the lust for power.

Olivier was 76 years old when this production was made but he still managed to tower effortlessly over a stellar cast. Nominated for three BAFTAs, Michael Elliott's production for Granada Television set the benchmark for all other adaptations of this sad tale.

Also starring: Leo McKern, Diana Rigg, Anna Calder-Marshall, Dorothy Tutin and Robert Lindsay.

Certificate 15.

MACBETH - (Polanski)
Roman Polanski presents his nightmarish vision of Shakespeare's classic tragedy about the lust for power - and its bloody consequences.

Filmed in rugged North Wales and featuring a talented cast including Jon Finch (Macbeth), Francesca Annis (Lady Macbeth), Nicholas Selby (King Duncan) and Martin Shaw (Banquo), this is one of the most exciting, cinematic and full-blooded adaptations of Shakespeare by one of the great directors.

Certificate 15.

MACBETH - RSC
An excellent production, starring Ian McKellen and Judy Dench with the Royal Shakespeare Company, this version was produced by Trevor Nunn and directed by Philip Casson. It was recorded in 1979.

Certificate PG.

MACBETH - BBC tv
Starring Nicol Williamson, Jane Lapotaire, Tony Doyle and James Bolam. Directed by Jack Gold.

Rather than emphasise the political aspects, this version explores the psychological dimension of the play as it delves into the minds of the protagonists.

Ceretificate PG.

MEASURE FOR MEASURE - BBC tv
From a plot that revolves around a man condemned to death for fornication and a novice nun's defence of her chastity against a corrupt judge emerges a forceful and extraordinarily modern production of this celebrated play.

Shakespeare's dark comedy weaves between the moral posts of lust, money and justice. Kenneth Colley and Tim Piggott-Smith are excellent as the seemingly cold and inscrutable Duke and Angelo, while Kate Nelligan's Isabella moved the New York Times reviewer to describe her as 'the image of idealised faultlessness.'

Certificate PG

THE MERCHANT OF VENICE
Michael Radford's first-rate cinematic adaptation of Shakespeare's most frequently performed works is a white-knuckle suspense and swooning romance from start to finish.

Starring Al Pacino, Jeremy Irons, Joseph Fiennes and Lynn Collins and lovingly filmed in Venice this is a film which looks great, with settings and costumes all sporting a dusky, lived-in look that matches the subdued naturalistic interpretation of the dialogue.

With the play's rich array of dramatic and comedic elements all perfectly in tune, this production earns its place as the first truly great Shakespeare film of the 21st Century.

Certificate PG.

A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM - BBC tv
Shakespeare's fairytale comedy contains some of the most lyrical expressions of love, dreams and imaginations. The performance is star-studded, with Helen Mirren as Titania and Peter McEnery as Oberon dominating the proceedings and supported by a superb cast which includes Phil Daniels, Robert Lindsay and Brian Glover.

Directed by Elijah Moshinsky and Produced by Jonathan Miller.

Certificate U.

A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM
Peasants, lovers and fairies all meet in an enchanted forest, leading to mishaps and misadventure.

Michael Hoffman's film adaptation of Shakespeare's magical romantic comedy features a star-packed cast which includes Michelle Pfeiffer, Rupert Everett, Kevin Kline, Anna Friel - and many others.

Certificate PG.

MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING
Staring Kenneth Branagh, Emma Thompson, Denzel Washington, Richard Briers, Kate Beckinsale, Ben Elton, Keanu Reeves, Michael Keaton, Richard Briers, Brian Blessed and Robert Sean Leonard.

With its excellent cast and beautiful Tuscan locations, director Kenneth Branagh's film is a wonderful adaptation of one of Shakespeare's great plays.

Certificate PG

OTHELLO (Ian McKellen)
Directed by the legendary Trevor Nunn, this brilliant award-winning production features a vivid and dignified performance from Willard White in the title role and a superb performance from Imogen Stubbs as Desdemona. It is justly celebrated, however, for the stunning and highly acclaimed performance by Sir Ian McKellen as Iago.

Also featuring Zoe Wannamaker as Emilia - supported by members of the Royal Shakespears Company - this excellent production is a classic and is highly recommended.

Certificate U.

OTHELLO (BBC)
Jonathan Miller's excellent 1981 production for BBC tv brings together the indisputable talents of Anthony Hopkins and Bob Hoskins in the lead roles.

Indeed, Hopkins admitted, "Othello is the part I've always most wanted to play."

Together, they weave an increasingly tense web of manipulation, deception and jealousy on a tragic path to self-understanding.

Also starring: Penelope Wilton, David Yelland and Rosemary Leach

Certificate U.

OTHELLO (Orson Welles)
Orson Welles' production began in 1948 but with money in short supply the production took a further four years to complete. An original negative found in 1992 allowed a restoration project to begin.

Winner of the 1952 Cannes Film Festival's Palme d'Or, Orson Welles' adaptation of Shakespeare's tragedy is another testimony to his film making genius and his portrayal of the doomed Moor was another powerful and charismatic performance.

Also starring Suzanne Cloutier, Robert Coote and Fay Compton.

Certificate U.

RICHARD II - BBC tv
Ascending the throne as a young man, Richard is a regal and stately monarch who believes himself to be the rightful ruler of England. He is, however, weak and ineffective, wasteful in his spending, unwise in his choice of counsellors and detached from his people.

When he seizes the land of Henry Bolingbroke, both commoners and noblemen decide that he has gone too far......

A superb cast is led by Derek Jacobi and John Gielgud with Jon Finch, Wendy Hiller and Charles Gray.

Certificate U.

RICHARD III
In this classic adaptation of Shakespeare's play, Richard III has helped to put his older brother Edward on the throne of England. But jealousy and resentmant cause him to seek the crown for himself and he conceives a lengthy and carefully calculated plan using deception, manipulation and outright murder to achieve his goal.

Starring Laurence Olivier (who also directed), John Gielgud, Ralph Richardson, Claire Bloom, Stanley Baker, Cedric Hardwicke and Patrick Troughton.

Olivier won the BAFTA for Best Actor with the film taking the Best British film BAFTA and an Oscar nomination.

Digitally restored 2-disc version.

Certificate U.

ROMEO AND JULIET
Italian Director Franco Zeffirelli stunned the world by casting two unknowns (Olivia Hussey and Leonard Whiting) to portray the star crossed lovers in Romeo and Juliet but it was a gamble that resulted in one of the most popular motion pictures of the time, winning international acclaim and two Academy Awards.

Shakespeare's classic romance comes to stunning visual life in a modern, young person's interpretation, bringing new vitality and a fresh insight to the most durable love story ever written.

Also staring Michael York, Laurence Olivier, Paul Hardwick and Natasha Parry.

Certificate PG

THE TAMING OF THE SHREW
Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor sparkle as Katharina and Petruchio in Franco Zeffielli's sumptuous adaptation of Shakespeare's tale of male chauvanism and women's lib in the 16th century.

Also starring Michael York and Natasha Pyne.

Certificate U.

THE TEMPEST - BBC tv
From its spectacular, storm-ravaged opening, in what is regarded as his last play, Shakespeare illustrates his genius for interweaving the tangible and intangible elements of human existence.

At the height of his powers, he deftly explores the contrasting themes of control and power, illusion and reality, nature and society.

The magic and intrigue of a tale of spirits, sorcery, monsters, maidens and shipwrecked, scheming noblemen comes alive in this excellent BBC production.

The cast includes Michael Hordern (Prospero), Warren Clarke (Caliban), Nigel Hawthorne (Stephano), Andrew Sachs (Trinculo), John Nettleton (Gonzalo) and Pippa Guard (Miranda)

Certificate U.

TWELFTH NIGHT (BBC)
Starring Alec McCowen, Felicity Kendal, Sinead Cusack and Annette Crosbie.

Certificate U.

THE WINTER'S TALE - BBC tv
Leontes, King of Sicilia, becomes convinced that his wife, Hermione, is guilty of adultery with Polixenes, the King of Bohemia. He imprisons his wife and tries to kill Polixenes, thereby setting in motion a train of tragic consequences.

With Jeremy Kemp, Anna Calder-Marshall, Margaret Tyzack, Cyril Luckham and Debbie Farrington.

Produced by Jonathan Miller and directed by Jane Howell.

Certificate PG

About Shakespeare

SHAKESPEARE - A Critical Guide to Romeo & Juliet and Hamlet
An invaluable guide to understanding Shakespeare's tragedies.

The central themes of two of Shakespeare's works are examined by Professor Stanley Wells and Dr Russell Jackson of the Shakespeare Institute and Dr Robert Smallwood of the Shakespeare Centre, Stratford-Upon-Avon.

Topics addressed include:

ROMEO & JULIET:
(a) Why has Romeo & Juliet proved such a popular play?
(b) Is the balcony scene the 'core and heart' of the play?
(c) Should modern audiences feel uncomfortable at both the lovers' extreme youth?

HAMLET:
(a) Why has Hamlet become one of the most influential pieces of literature in the world?
(b) What are the bounds preventing Hamlet from carrying out his revenge?
(c) Is Hamlet's treatment of Ophelia justifiable?

Exempt from Classification.

SHAKESPEARE - A Critical Guide to Othello & Julius Caesar
An invaluable guide to understanding Shakespeare's tragedies. The central themes of two of Shakespeare's works are examined by Professor Stanley Wells and Dr Russell Jackson of the Shakespeare Institute and Dr Robert Smallwood of the Shakespeare Centre, Stratford-Upon-Avon.

Topics addressed include:

OTHELLO:
(a) What are Iago's motives? Is he simply evil?
(b) Is Othello easily manipulated because he is ruled by emotion rather than logic?
(c) How does Desdemona contribute to her own downfall?

JULIUS CAESAR
(a) What are the main themes of Julius Caesar?
(b) What motivates Cassius?
(c) What is the dramatic effect of Caesar's ghost?

Exempt from Classification.

SHAKESPEARE'S SOLILOQUIES
An ensemble of actors, in various stages of rehearsal, present some of Shakespeare's most poignant speeches.

Including:
'All The Worlds a Stage' (As You Like It)
O that this too too solid flesh would melt' (Hamlet)
'Once more unto the breach' (King Henry V)
'Friends, Romans, Countrymen' (Julius Caesar)
'The quality of mercy' (The Merchant of Venice)
Romeo, Romeo! wherefore art thou Romeo?' (Romeo & Juliet)
'Is this a dagger which I see before me?' (Macbeth)
'What a piece of work is man!' (Hamlet)
'Now is the winter of our discontent' (Richard III)
'This was the noblest Roman of them all' (Julius Caesar)
'O, what a noble mind is here o'erthrown! (Hamlet)
'To be, or not to be, that is the question' (Hamlet)
'She should have died hereafter' (Macbeth)

IN SEARCH OF SHAKESPEARE
Michael Wood's historical search for the true story of our greatest playwright.

He is the most famous of Englishmen, and yet our biographical knowledge of William Shakespeare has always been scant. Now, Michael Wood - with the help of the Royal Shakespeare Company and other experts - unravels the mysteries, to tell his story.

This major BBC series concentrates on seven aspects of his life and times:
His Times
His Politics
His Youth
His Loves
His 'Lost Years'
His Career
His Plays

Certificate E (exempt)

SHAKESPEARE - The Bard of Avon
The work of William Shakespeare shows an insight into the human character that few, if any, have been able to replicate. Yet so little is known about the man himself.

With excerpts from some of his famous plays, comments from Brian Blessed and expert analysis from Stanley Wells (Shakespeare Institute) and Robert Smallwood (Stratford Shakespeare Centre), this DVD offers an entertaining and innovative glimpse into the world and life of England's literary genius.

Exempt from Classification.

SHAKESPEARE RETOLD
Four unique and entertaining films from the BBC, inspired by Shakespeare's original plays, bring him to a 21st century audience.

The plays given a modern treatment are:

'Much Ado About Nothing' - starring Sarah Parish, Damian Lewis and Billie Piper.

'Macbeth' - starring James McAvoy, Keeley Hawes and Richard Armitage.

'The Taming of the Shrew' - starring Shirley Henderson, Rufus Sewell, Stephen Tompkinson and Twiggy Lawson.

'A Midsummer Night's Dream' - starring Imelda Staunton, Bill Patterson, Lennie James, Sharon Small and Johnny Vegas.

The Special Features include:
Interviews
Shakespeare Biography
Shakespeare on Film
Picture Gallery
Scene Indexing

Certificate 12.

Plays

Edward Albee - WHO'S AFRAID OF VIRGINIA WOOLF?
George (Richard Burton) and Martha (Elizabeth Taylor) invite their neighbours Nick (George Segal) and his wife Honey (Sandy Dennis) to an "evening of fun and games".

Heated up by alcohol and small disputes, the hosts show their real face and can't control their hate for each other.

An Oscar-winning masterpiece by first-time director Mike Nichols based on the the epoch-making stage play by Edward Albee.

Certificate 15.

Supply is subject to availability.
This title is out of print, although we are currently able to import supplies from abroad in both VHS and DVD formats.

Anton Chekhov - Three Sisters
In a remote little town in Russia, at the turn of the century, three sisters and their brother fantasise about their return to their former home in Moscow.

For them, Moscow is a city of dreams, magnetism and inspiration - a far cry from their current life, an oppressive and overbearing existence, devoid of hope. As they muddle through life, they hold on to the memory of a place they once knew and the promise of a better life. As time passes, however, hope begins to fade and tragedy strikes the ill fated family.

Starring Laurence Olivier - who also directs - with Derek Jacobi, Joan Plowright, Jeanne Watts, Louise Parnell, Alan Bates and Ronald Pickup.

Anton Chekhov - Uncle Vanya
Chekhov's play about the frustrations and disillusionment of advancing age and the boredom of provincial life in late 19th century Russia, is presented live on stage at the Chichester Festival Theatre in 1962.

The cast includes Laurence Olivier, Michael Redgrave, Joan Plowright and Sybil Thorndike.

Michael Frayne - Noises Off
An outrageously funny look at the loves, lies and deceit that take place behind the scenes as a group of ridiculously inept stage actors rehearse a Broadway-bound play.

Just when members of this chaotic cast finally get their performance right - everything else starts to go wrong.

Directed by Peter Bogdanovich and starring Michael Caine, Christopher Reeve, Denholm Elliot, Julie Hagerty and Nicollette Sheridan.

Certificate 15.

John Gay - The Beggar's Opera
Roger Daltrey stars as the highwayman in this adaptation of John Gay's play made specially for television. The music is an arrangement of 18th century folk songs which are performed on authentic period instruments.

The Director is Jonathan Miller and the cast also includes Bob Hoskins, Patricia Routledge, Stratford Johns and Ken Stott.

Certificate U.

William Gibson - The Miracle Worker
Based upon the play by William Gibson, this dramatic story follows Helen Keller - a young blind and deaf girl - and a teacher who relies on her determination and instinct to bring light and joy into an otherwise dark world.

Patty Duke and Anne Bancroft had been playing their respective roles as Helen Keller and her teacher, Annie Sullivan, on Broadway for some time before director Arthur Penn built a mesmerisingly beautiful film around their layers-deep performances.

Duke is astonishing as the deaf, blind, mute Keller, who awakens to an awareness of language under Sullivan's determined guidance. Bancroft's fascinating and focused performance is everything you would expect from such an accomplished actress.

The script for The Miracle Worker is by William Gibson himself. The film is in Black & White.

Certificate PG.

Mark Handley - Nell
A moving adaptation of Mark Handley's play 'Idioglossia', this excellent film was directed by Michael Apted and has a first rate cast.

The backwoods of North Carolina is where Nell (Jodie Foster) lives, all alone. She has her own form of language and no idea of a world beyond her small plot of land.

Then civilisation enters her life in the form of two doctors (Liam Neeson and Natasha Richardson), who discover the untamed wild child. Now that they have come to study her, Nell's life will never be the same again - but neither will theirs.

Certificate 12.

Henrik Ibsen - A Doll's House (1)
Nora Helmer is being blackmailed for committing forgery many years earlier in order to save the life of her authoritarian husband Torvald. Now, she lives in fear of him finding out because of the shame such a revelation would bring to his career.

However, when the truth comes out, Nora is shocked to learn where she really stands in her husband's esteem.

Directed by Patrick Garland, the cast is led by Anthony Hopkins as Torvald Helmer and Claire Bloom as his wife Nora.

Also starring Ralph Richardson (Dr Rank), Denholm Elliott (Krogstad), Edith Evans (Anne-Marie) and Anna Massey (Kristine Linde).

USA Certificate G (General audiences)

PLEASE NOTE:
While stocks last. Although this DVD is currently in stock, it is now out of print. Please contact us for availability.

ALSO:
If your DVD player is able to play Region 1 (NTSC) discs we are more likely to be able to supply. These may also be less expensive. However, please be aware that these discs are not playable on standard European equipment. Please contact us if you wish to purchase this version.

Henrik Ibsen - A Doll's House (2)
The first of Ibsen's plays to create a sensation within society and Joseph Losey's film adaptation transcends the generations from when it was first seen on stage.

Starring Jane Fonda, Edward Fox, Trevor Howard and David Warner.

Certificate PG.

Thomas Middleton - The Changeling
A lavish adaptation of William Rowley and Thomas Middleton's 17th century Gothic play.

A passionate young woman pleads with her manservant to murder her betrothed so that she can be with the man she truly loves. In return for this deed, he requests a night of passion - the catalyst for a stream of murderous activity.

Starring Ian Dury, Amanda Ray-King, Billy Connolly, John Cooper Clarke and Richard Meyes.

Certificate 18.

Arthur Miller - The Crucible
Critically praised, intriguing and full of suspense, this production stars Daniel Day-Lewis and Winona Ryder. A powerful story of passion, jealousy, paranoia and betrayal is woven into a highly charged and exciting film.

Based on one of the greatest plays of the 20th century, The Crucible is set in Massachusetts in 1692. In a small Puritan town, where one's life is dedicated to the service of God, several teenage girls are discovered in the woods and are accused of engaging in 'the Devil's work'.

As time goes by, the village becomes consumed by cries of witchcraft. One by one, the blameless victims of this mass hysteria are torn from their homes and families.

Also starring Paul Scofield and Joan Allen. The screenplay is by Arthur Miller himself.

Certificate 12.

Arthur Miller - Death of a Salesman
An outstanding adaptation of Arthur Miller's stage masterpiece about William Loman (Dustin Hoffman), the emotionally broken-down salesman, coming to terms with his life and his family after being fired from his lifelong job. This drama remains one of the most poignant and powerful stories in modern theatre.

Also staring John Malkovich.

Certificate PG

Arthur Miller - A View from the Bridge
Eddie Carbone, a Brooklyn longshoreman, is unhappily married to Beatrice and unconsciously in love with Catherine, the niece that they have raised from childhood. Into his house come two brothers, illegal immigrants, Marco and Rodolpho. Catherine falls in love with Rudolpho; and Eddie, tormented but unable to admit even to himself his quasi-incestuous love, reports the illegal immigrants to the authorities.

Starring Raf Vallone, Maureen Stapleton and Carol Lawrence.

Directed by Sidney Lumet from Arthur Miller's play.

PLEASE NOTE:
The only available DVD copies of this film are made from a release print, rather than from an original master. The quality of sound and picture is therefore significantly less than ideal. However, in the absence of any alternative version, it is offered for archival and teaching purposes. It is available on special order and can normally be supplied in about 2-3 weeks.

John Osborne - The Entertainer
Laurence Olivier delivers an Oscar-nominated performance in this riveting film based on John Osborne's play. Powerful, thought-provoking and vividly theatrical, it is a supremely entertaining film.

According to vauderville performer Archie Rice, the show must go on - even if it means stringing along his fellow performers, exploiting the hopes and money of a starlet and neglecting his own family. This is Archie's world - but not everyone wants to live in it.

His only daughter will do everything she can to break through and bring him around ..... if only she can make him listen.

Co-starring Brenda De Banzie and Roger Livesey with Albert Finney and Alan Bates making their screen debuts, and introducing Joan Plowright. Directed by Tony Richardson.

Certificate PG

B&W

John Osborne - LOOK BACK IN ANGER
John Osborne's acclaimed and formative play is directed by Judi Dench in this excellent screen version.

As a child, Jimmy Porter watched his father die alone and in poverty. He is now an 'angry young man' who despises the establishment and its smug callousness. Bitter and frustrated, he turns his ferocious aggression on his wife Alison and her upper class background.

Starring Kenneth Branagh and Emma Thompson.

Certificate 12.

Harold Pinter - The Birthday Party
Described as a comedy of menace, 'The Birthday Party' is a dramatic expose of contemporary man's inability to cope with his fears and guilt.

Stanley is lodging at a shabby seaside boarding house. When he is visited by two menacing and mysterious strangers who insist on throwing a birthday party for him, his world changes dramatically.

Starring Robert Shaw, Patrick Magee and Dandy Nichols. Directed by Willim Friedkin.

Certificate 15

Harold Pinter - The Caretaker
The play that made Harold Pinter's name in 1960 remains, probably, his most famous.

With Donald Pleasence as Davies, Alan Bates as Mick and Robert Shaw as Aston, we see on film three of the greatest interpretors of Pinter's characters. Clive Donner's sensitive film becomes a study of shared illusion, tragic dispossession and a fraternal bond of unspoken love, combining mesmerising performances and the magic of Pinter's dialogue into a spellbinding film.

Also included:
Introduction by Michael Billington
On location with The Caretaker
From Play Into Film - Michael Billington on the making of The Caretaker.

Certificate PG

Harold Pinter - The Homecoming
Harold Pinter's play electrified audiences when it was first performed in 1965. This American Film Theatre adaptation, directed by Peter Hall, captures the intensity of the language and the performances. It stands as a valuable cinematic record of a milestone of post-war British theatre.

Starring Cyril Cusack, Ian Holm, Vivien Merchant, Michael Jayston, Paul Rogers and Jonathan Sachar.

Certificate 12.

J B Priestley - An Inspector Calls
A young girl is murdered and an Inspector calls on a prosperous Yorkshire household investigating the sad circumstances behind her death. Each family member has a secret - and each is partly responsible for the girl's fate.

The determined Inspector must prove their collective guilt and the shattering dennouncement reveals why. An excellent adaptation of this classic play.

Staring Alistair Sim, Bryan Forbes, Eileen Moore, Jane Wenham and Arthur Young.

Certificate PG.

NB: Subject to availability. This title is now out of print. We are occasionally able to obtain copies - sometimes second hand. Please enquire.

Terence Rattigan - The Winslow Boy
The story of the very public fight to clear the name of the Winslow family's son. Based on the play by Terrence Rattigan.

Starring Nigel Hawthorne, Jeremy Northam, Gemma Jones, Rebecca Pidgeon and Matthew Pidgeon.

Certificate U.

Willy Russell - Educating Rita
Dr Frank Bryant (Michael Caine) is an alchoholic professor of literature headed for dire straits. Rita (Julie Walters) is a frustrated young housewife filled with wanderlust. When the two meet as student and teacher, no lecture hall can contain their attraction for one another.

As Rita engages her teacher in a fuzzy romance, she matures and discovers a new side of herself, but in the end she must choose either her marriage or the magnetic Dr Bryant.

Also staring Maureen Lipman and Malcolm Douglas.

Certificate 15.

Willy Russell - Our Day Out
A Liverpudlian school coach outing to Conway Castle in North Wales, the zoo, the beach and the fair, brings out anarchic behaviour in pupils and teachers alike.

An exuberant celebration of the joys and agonies of growing up and being footloose, fourteen and free from school. But this is more than a romp - it points up the depressing present and empty future for these comphrehensive no-hopers from the backstreets of Liverpool, for whom a day out is as much as they can expect.

A BBC tv 'Play for Today', first transmitted in 1976.

PLEASE NOTE: This is a DVD copy of a title that is now out of print. Although of value for archival and study purposes, it is not of the technical quality that we would normally require for inclusion in our catalogue. Furthermore, it is only available as a replacement copy and orders are only accepted on the clear understanding that you or your school already have (or have previously had) a video or DVD copy. If you are not able to accept these limitations please do not order this title. Strictly subject to availability. Please enquire.

Anthony Shaffer - Sleuth
Adapted by Anthony Shaffer from his own hit stage play, Sleuth is a reflexively self-aware send-up of the murder-mystery genre, which risks everything on the tour de force performances of its small cast.

Director Joseph L Mankiewicz doesn't attempt to escape the theatrical confines of Shaffer's clever and convoluted screenplay; instead he concentrates--or diverts?--our attention with close-up details of the setting. Is he showing us clues or just more red herrings?

Brilliant performances by Laurence Olivier and Michael Caine make this a very exceptional film.

Certificate 15.

Richard Sheridan - The Rivals
An adaptation of Sheridan's popular 'comedy of manners', recorded on stage at the Bristol Old Vic.

The Rivals is a portrait drawn from material of Sheridan's own life; his scandalous marriage to a popular singer and characters he knew in the town of Bath. A romance told with great wit and emotion, The Rivals is one of the funniest jewels of late-Restoration comedy.

In order to woo the idealistic Lydia Languish, to whom wealth means little, Captain Absolute offers himself to her as a poor Army officer. Standing between the two lovers is an extraordinary collection of comic characters: the captain's acrimonious father, Sir Anthony Absolute; Lydia's quick-tongued aunt, Mrs. Malaprop; and the affable Bob Acres, the captain's friend turned rival.

Starring Selina Cadell, Anna Madeley and David Burke.

Certificare PG

Oscar Wilde - AN IDEAL HUSBAND - (Goddard/Wilding)
1890's high society provides the setting for Oscar Wilde's sparkling commedy of morals and manners, in which an 'ideal' husband must fight to save both his marriage and reputation when a blackmailing adventurer threatens him with a political scandal.

Staring Paulette Goddard, Michael Wilding and Diana Wynyard.

Certificate U.

Oscar Wilde - AN IDEAL HUSBAND - (Blanchett/Everett)
Devoted womaniser and tireless party-goer, Arthur Goring (Rupert Everett) is famed throughout London for his refusal to take anything seriously.

Sir Robert Chiltern (Jeremy Northam) is a brilliant politician, a perfect gentleman and the ideal husband for the captivating Lady Chiltern (Cate Blanchett).

However, when the scheming Mrs Cheveley (Julianne Moore) threatens to reveal a dark secret from Sir Robert's past, the very foundations of his perfect life look set to collapse.

Oscar Wilde - AN IDEAL HUSBAND - (Wilby/Frost)
Rising politician Robert Chilton, his wife Gertrude and sister Mabel decide to throw a party where he is held up as a pillar of the community. Things, however, take a turn for the worse when Lady Markby introduces him to Laura Cheveley who knows a dark secret from Robert's past and intends to use it against him.

Staring James Wilby, Sadie Frost, Prunella Scales, Robert Hardy and Jonathan Firth.

Certificate U.

Oscar Wilde - THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST
A pair of flamboyant Victorian bachelors - Algy (Rupert Everett) and Jack (Colin Firth) - secretly lead double lives.

Using aliases and false alibis, the pair woo respectable ladies by day and cavort in music halls at night. Through countless blunders and haphazard tomfoolery, it is only a matter of time before they are caught out by their own lies.

Sparkling dialogue, razor-sharp wit and electric performances make The Importance of Being Earnest unforgettably funny, whilst the grandiose sets and fabulous period costumes add romance and charm.

Reese Witherspoon is radiant as Cecily, an alluring English rose, and Judi Dench puts in a fantastic performance as Lady Bracknell.

Certificate U.

Oscar Wilde - LADY WINDERMERE'S FAN
'Lady Windermere's Fan' is presented as a part of the BBC Oscar Wilde Collection along with 'The Importance of Being Earnest', 'The Picture of Dorian Gray' and 'An Ideal Husband'.

Directed by Tony Smith, the cast includes: Helena Little, Tim Woodward, Stephanie Turner, Kenneth Cranham, Ian Burford, John Clive, Sara Kestelman and Robert Lang.

Also included is 'The Life and Loves of Oscar Wilde' - a 60-minute feature on the life of Oscar Wilde.

Certificate 12

THE OSCAR WILDE COLLECTION (BBC)
'The Importance of Being Earnest', 'An Ideal Husband' and 'Lady Windermere's Fan' are presented together with an adaptation of 'The Picture of Dorian Gray' in this set of three DVDs from the BBC - all housed in a convenient slip case.

Also included is a special 60-minute feature: 'The Life and Loves of Oscar Wilde'.

The casts include:
'The Importance of Being Earnest'
Rupert Frazer, Gemma Jones, Alec McCowen, Paul McGann, Joan Plowright, Amanda Redman.

'The Picture of Dorian Gray'
John Gielgud, Peter Firth, Jeremy Brett, Judi Bowker.

'An Ideal Husband'
Margaret Leighton, Keith Michel, Jeremy Brett, Dinah Sheridan, Susan Hampshire.

'Lady Windermere's Fan'
Helena Little, Tim Woodward, Stephanie Turner, Kenneth Cranham, Sara Kestelman, Robert Lang.

Each of the four plays runs for approximately 100 minutes.

Certificate 12.

Tennessee Williams - Cat on a Hot Tin Roof
Infidelities, addictions, latent homosexuality, depression, unrequited love and mendacity are woven into this powerful adaptation of Tennessee Williams' Pulitzer Prize-winning play.

Excellent performances are given by a smouldering, angry Elizabeth Taylor as Maggie, the feline in question, Paul Newman her husband Brick Pollitt, an alcoholic who frustrates and disappoints his wife and father, and Burl Ives, the vulgar patriarch of this Gothic Southern family whose children return to the nest like vultures when they learn he is dying of cancer.

Certificate 15.

Tennessee Williams - A Streetcar Named Desire
Tennessee Williams based his screenplay on Oscar Saul's adaptation of Williams' Pulitzer Prize-winning play set in grimy New Orleans.

It's the story of the fragile sentimentalism of a former prostitute who visits her sister only to be taunted mercilessly by her childish brother-in-law.

This film features some of the finest ensemble acting ever seen on screen and is one of the few productions to have succeeded in making the difficult transition from Broadway to Hollywood.

Starring Marlon Brando, Vivien Leigh, Kim Hunter and Karl Malden

Certificate 15.

Jane Austen / Bronte Sisters

EMMA - Jane Austen
This production sizzles with wit, intrigue and expectation. Beautifully filmed in wonderful settings, it stars Gwyneth Paltrow, Greta Scatchi. Ewan McGregor and Juliet Stevenson. A charming production which is highly recommended.

EMMA - Jane Austen (ITV)
A faithful, enchanting adaptation of Jane Austen's nineteenth-century tale of Emma Woodhouse--a clever young woman whose mischievous matchmaking schemes nearly end up jeopardising her own shot at romance.

Starring Kate Beckinsale, Mark Strong, Samantha Morton, Bernard Hepton and Samantha Bond.

Certificate U

MANSFIELD PARK - JANE AUSTEN (BBC)
Starring Sylvestra le Touzel as Fanny and with Angela Pleasence, Anna Massey, Bernard Hepton and Nicholas Farrell, this BBC version is a faithful adaptation of Jane Austen's classic novel.

Poverty-stricken Fanny Price goes to live with her prosperous aunt and cousins at their country home. As she struggles to adapt to her new lifestyle she begins to attract the attentions of suitors.

Certificate U.

MANSFIELD PARK - Jane Austen (ITV)
ITVs 2007 adaptation of Jane Austen's classic novel in which poverty-stricken Fanny Price is sent away to live with her wealthy uncle and aunt at Mansfield Park.

As she struggles to adapt to her new lifestyle she begins to attract the attentions of suitors, learning about the sexual politics of high society along the way.

Starring Billie Piper as Fanny and with Jemma Redgrave, Maggie O'Neill, Douglas Hodge and James D'Arcy.

Certificate PG.

NORTHANGER ABBEY - Jane Austen (ITV)
Catherine Morland arrives at Northanger upon the invitation of Henry Tilney, only to discover that the place is shrouded in mystery and intrigue.

ITVs excellent 2007 adaptation stars Felicity Jones, Carey Mulligan, Liam Cunningham and J.J.Field.

Certificate PG.

NORTHANGER ABBEY - Jane Austen (BBC)
Catherine Morland arrives in Bath bursting with freshness, integrity and a passion for macabre gothic novels. When the romantic Henry Tilney invites her to Northanger Abbey, his ancestral home, a dark mystery starts to unfold that makes her blood run cold. Are her fantasies coming true? What does the sinister Gereral Tilney want from her and will the truth destroy her chance of love?

With Katharine Schlesinger as Catherine Morland, Peter Firth as Henry Tilney, Robert Hardy as General Tilney and Googie Withers as Mrs Allen.

A classic BBC period drama. Certificate PG

PERSUASION - Jane Austen (BBC)
A lavish BBC production of Jane Austen's 1818 love story of an English officer pursuing the woman he loves through youthful rejection, long estrangement, and eventual, glorious reconciliation.

'Gorgeously directed, written and acted....a sharp, witty, touching and vital romance.'

Starring Amanda Root, Corin Redgrave, Ciaran Hinds and Sophie Thompson. Directed by Roger Michell.

Certificate U.

PERSUASION - Jane Austen (ITV)
This 2007 ITV adaptation of Jane Austen's classic is both lavish and beautifully acted.

Some reviewers may quibble about the level of its faithfulness to Austen's original work, but it is nevertheless a very good production.

Starring Sally Hawkins, Rupert Penry-Jones, Anthony Head and Alice Krige.

Certificate PG

PRIDE AND PREJUDICE - Jane Austen (BBC)
This captivating BBC version of Jane Austen's enduring masterpiece - which to some is the definitive version - stars Jennifer Ehle, Colin Firth, Alison Steadman, Anna Chancellor, Barbara Leigh and David Bamber.

In terms of its acting, setting and presentation it is truly a classic version of a classic novel.

While stocks last, we are offering the 2-disc 10th anniversary edition with much additional material on Jane Austen and the making of this wonderful BBC drama.

Certificate U.

PRIDE AND PREJUDICE - Jane Austen
This stunning feature film version of Jane Austen's beloved novel of the Bennett sisters stars Keira Knightley, Matthew MacFayden, Donald Sutherland, Judi Dench, Brenda Blethyn and Rosamund Pike.

At just over two hours in length, some of the book's subplots are condensed or cut but for the most part, it is as close to the spirit of the original as a cinema format will allow. It is beautifully set, superbly filmed and acted - a real pleasure to watch.

Certificate U.

SENSE AND SENSIBILITY - Jane Austen (BBC)
An excellent adaptation with all the hallmarks of quality BBC period drama, starring Irene Richard (Elinor), Tracey Childs (Marianne), Peter Woodward (Willoughby) and Bosco Hogan (Ferras).

SENSE AND SENSIBILITY - Jane Austen
Starring Emma Thompson, Kate Winslet, Alan Rickman and Hugh Grant, this excellent adaptation of Jane Austen's novel tells the story of two sisters forced to find husbands after the death of their father and their descent into restricted means.

A society which has strict rules obsessed with financial and social status - along with the conflicting laws of desire - make a delicate situation even more confusing and traumatic.

Brilliantly acted by a superb cast with wonderful settings, this is an excellent film.

SENSE and SENSIBILITY - Jane Austen (2008)
The new BBC adaptation of Jane Austen's classic and most romantic novel of two devoted sisters is brought to life in this excellent new BBC production.

Adapted for the screen by Andrew Davies and starring Charity Wakefield, Hattie Morahan, Janet McTeer and David Morrissey.

Certificate U

THE TENENT OF WILDFELL HALL - Anne Bronte
Helen Graham - whose unconventional life hides a hidden past - becomes the new tenant at Wildfell Hall. A period drama based on the novel by Anne Bronte and set in the Victorian England of 1848.

An excellent cast includes Tara Fitzgerald, Rupert Graves, James Purefoy and Miranda Pleasence.

Certificate 15.

JANE EYRE - Charlotte Bronte (BBC)
This BBC version of Jane Eyre proved to be one of the television triumphs of 2006.

It’s a faithful adaptation, with Ruth Wilson giving an exceptional performance in the title role with Toby Stephens as Rochester. An excellent supporting cast includes Francesca Annis and all are supported by some superb scenery, excellent photography and skilful direction.

A wonderful adaptation of of a classic romance.

Certificate PG

JANE EYRE - Charlotte Bronte
Charlotte Bronte's classic novel of Gothic romance gets the full Franco Zeffirelli treatment in this moving adaptation.

Orphaned Jane Eyre (Charlotte Gainsbourg - with Anne Paquin as the young Jane) grows into a strong-willed young woman who falls in love with Mr Rochester, the brooding lord of the manor (William Hurt). Unfortunately all does not turn out to be straightforward.

A celebrated cast also includes: Elle Macpherson, Billie Whitelaw, Geraldine Chaplin, Joan Plowright, John Wood, Amanda Root, Fiona Shaw and Maria Schneider.

WUTHERING HEIGHTS - Emily Bronte
A sweeping, epic production of Emily Bronte's classic tale of star-crossed lovers Cathy (Juliette Binoche) and Heathcliff (Ralph Fiennes), whose passionate love and tragic separation plays out against the verdant Yorkshire moors.

Whereas most film adaptations of Wuthering Heights end with the death of Cathy, this version presents the complete novel and continues the fateful consequences of the doomed love affair as it resonates throughout two generations of the Earnshaw and Linton families.

Elizabeth Gaskell

CRANFORD - Elizabeth Gaskell
A lavish BBC costume drama based on three of Elizabeth Gaskell's novels including Cranford itself.

The five-part drama series tells the witty and poignant story of the small absurdities and major tragedies in the lives of the people of Cranford - a small northern town on the cusp of change in the 1840s - as they are besieged by forces they can't withstand. Things are on the move.

The railway is pushing its way relentlessly towards the town from Manchester, bringing fears of migrant workers and the breakdown of law and order.

Then, there's the arrival of Frank Harrison - a handsome new doctor from London - who causes a stir, not only because of his revolutionary medical methods, but also for the effect he has on some of the ladies' hearts in the town.

The cast includes some of Britain's best-loved and most experienced actresses; Judi Dench, Eileen Atkins, Imelda Staunton and Francesca Annis - all well supported by Julia Sawalha, Michael Gambon and Simon Woods.

Certificate 12

NORTH AND SOUTH - Elizabeth Gaskell
A highly acclaimed BBC production of Elizabeth Gaskell's novel. This is an intelligent, moving, thought-provoking and visually striking adaptation which has been described as 'Pride & Prejudice' with a social conscience - a collision between Northern bluntness and Southern sensibility.

Southerner Margaret Hale, has moved to the industrial town of Milton. When the workers of the cotton mill strike, Margaret - who has already taken a strong dislike for the mill's owner John Thornton - takes their side. As the conflict between Margaret and Thornton intensifies, however, Margaret finds herself doing the unspeakable....falling in love.

An excellent production which is highly recommended.

Cert 15

WIVES AND DAUGHTERS - Elizabeth Gaskell
A brilliant BBC adaptation starring Francesca Annis, Justine Waddell, Keeley Hawes, Bill Patterson and Michael Gambon.

Widowed village doctor Mr Gibson has decided to remarry – something for which his naïve daughter, Molly, is wholly unprepared. Her world is overturned by the arrival of an unwanted stepmother and a bewitching, beautiful stepsister, Cynthia.

The two girls form a close relationship which is soon tested when they become rivals in love . . . and matters are further complicated when a dangerous secret emerges from Cynthia’s past . . .

Certificate U.

Charles Dickens

BLEAK HOUSE - Charles Dickens
From the fog and squalor of Victorian London to the idyllic tranquility of rural England, Dickens' tale of tragedy, intrigue, love and stinging satire on the English legal system, is faithfully recreated in this delightful BBC drama series - a major award-winner at the 2006 BAFTA awards.

The story closely follows the characters involved in the infamous court case of Jarndyce versus Jarndyce that relies heavily on the production of an up-to-date will in order to settle the inheritance. Three young people are taken in by their generous guardian, John Jarndyce, to be cared for at Bleak House while they await the outcome of the court case.

Meanwhile, a ruthless lawyer is determined to find out the truth surrounding the Lady Dedlock's mysterious past and after deep investigation he makes a discovery that changes all of their lives.

A brilliant cast includes: Alistair McGowan, Alun Armstrong, Anna Maxwell Martin, Charles Dance, Denis Lawson, Gillian Anderson, Ian Richardson, Matthew Kelly, Nathanial Parker, Pauline Collins, Timothy West and Warren Clarke.

15 x 30 min episodes. Certificate PG

A CHRISTMAS CAROL - Charles Dickens
An excellent adaptation of a great Dickens novel starring George C Scott, Susannah Yorke and Nigel Davenport.

DAVID COPPERFIELD - Charles Dickens
This excellent BBC production stars Daniel Radcliffe, Bob Hoskins, Emelia Fox, Ian McKellen, Maggie Smith, Nicholas Lyndhurst and Trevor Eve.

Of all his novels, this was Dickens' own favourite. It displays a narrative power and wealth of characterisation that he never surpassed - and which has been brilliantly captured in this production.
Highly recommended.

GREAT EXPECTATIONS (David Lean) - Charles Dickens
Regarded by many as the definitive film adaptation of Dickens' classic novel, this 1946 version, directed by David Lean, has more than stood the test of time, capturing the warm humour and richness of character that so many film-makers miss in their reverent recreations of Victorian England.

From the nightmarish opening sequence on the windswept graveyard where young orphan Pip meets the desperate escaped criminal Magwitch to Miss Haversham's shadowy mansion where he first meets the beautiful young Estella, Lean captures an elegant and child-like exaggeration of reality. When Pip's change in fortune sends him to London as a burgeoning gentleman in high society, Lean sketches a beautiful, bustling city.

John Mills's performance as the adult Pip charts his change from the wide-eyed wonder and generous spirit of the child he was to the class snob transformed by money and social standing. The outstanding cast also features Valerie Hobson as the grown-up Estella, a bright young Alec Guinness in his film debut as Pip's jovial London roommate Herbert Pocket, Martita Hunt as a matchless Miss Haversham and the imposing Francis L. Sullivan as the humourless lawyer Jaggers - all supported by the excellent Bernard Miles.

Exquisitely photographed by Guy Green (who won an Oscar for his work), Lean and his collaborators effectively maintain the heart of Dickens's epic drama while cutting it to its essentials in this vivid, compelling film.

Thoroughly recommended.

Certificate PG

GREAT EXPECTATIONS - Charles Dickens
This 1974 version of Dickens' classic novel features an excellent cast of celebrated British actors.

With: Michael York, Sarah Miles, James Mason, Margaret Leighton and Robert Morley.

Certificate U.

HARD TIMES - Charles Dickens
The industrialist movement in England is Dickens' target in this bitter indictment of capitalism.

Thomas Gadgrind subjects his children to such a grim, emotionless life that his daughter becomes so repressed that she marries a boorish banker and his son becomes a cold-hearted thief.

A BBC production starring Bob Peck, Bill Patterson, Richard E Grant and Alan Bates.

NICHOLAS NICKLEBY - Charles Dickens
The tale of a young man's heroic attempt to protect his fatherless family from their abusive, money-obsessed uncle (Christopher Plummer).

An all-star cast brings Dickens' classic of intrigue and revenge to sparkling life. Beautifully produced and wonderfully acted. The cast also includes: Jim Broadbent, Barry Humphries, Juliet Stevenson and Anne Hathaway.

'Dickens at his finest' (Evening Standard).

THE OLD CURIOSITY SHOP - Charles Dickens
An enchanting adaptation of a beloved Dickens novel, starring Peter Ustinov, Tom Courtenay, James Fox and Sally Walsh.

OLIVER TWIST - Charles Dickens
Directed by Roman Polanski and starring Barney Clark in the title role with Harry Eden as the Artful Dodger. Ben Kingsley and Edward Hardwicke also feature in this beautifully filmed production with a stunning recreation of Victorian London.

Certificate PG.

OLIVER TWIST - Charles Dickens (ITV)
Alan Bleasdale's excellent 2006 mini-series adaptatation of Charles Dickens' classic story of a young orphan boy's life in Victorian England.

A very strong cast includes Robert Lindsay (excellent as Fagin), Julie Walters, Michael Kitchen, Alun Armstrong, Keira Knightley, Sophia Miles, Andy Serkis (a chilling Sykes) and Sam Smith.

Certificate PG

OLIVER TWIST - Charles Dickens (BBC)
Although some might have quibbles about the additions that writer Sarah Phelps has made to Dickens' original, her adaptation shows much skill and sympathy.

The outstanding cast is led by Timothy Spall, and also features William Miller, Sarah Lancashire,Tom Hardy, Sophie Okenedo, Edward Fox, Anna Massey, John Sessions and Gregor Fisher.

An excellent production.

Certificate 12.

THE SIGNALMAN - Charles Dickens (BBC)
This installment of the BBC's 'Ghost Story for Christmas' tells the haunting tale of a railway worker who sees frightening visions that appear just before horrible train wrecks. Are the visions in his imagination...or is there something more sinister?

Starring Denholm Elliott and Bernard Lloyd, this superb retelling of a celebrated Dickens short story will send cold shivers up the spine.

Also included on this DVD is an excellent reading of the story by John Nettleton.

PLEASE NOTE:
This title is currently out of print. We still hold limited stocks, but please enquire availability before placing your order.

Certificate PG

Thomas Hardy

JUDE THE OBSCURE - Thomas Hardy
Jude Fawley has a dream that has consumed most of his life. The dream of education. The distant spires of Christminster and university have beckoned the young stonemason since he was a boy.

However, having extricated himself from his disastrous marriage to pig-farmer’s daughter Arabella Donn, he seems no nearer to his goal . . .

This BBC dramatisation beautifully captures the tensions and agonies of Hardy’s tragic final novel. Another outstanding and polished costume drama from the BBC - another touch of real class.

Starring Robert Powell in the title role.

Certificate PG.

JUDE - Thomas Hardy
Loosely based on the Hardy novel, 'Jude the Obscure', this film is true to the spirit, if not the detail of the book. Although it borrows only the core of the story this should not be allowed to detract from the finished product.

The lead roles are played by Christopher Eccleston and Kate Winslet. So convincing are they in the portrayal of their characters - whose relationship is the focal point of the film - that it is difficult not to be drawn into the complex relationship between them.

Not, perhaps, a film for Hardy purists, but nevertheless a very useful way in to a celebrated Hardy novel.

Certificate !5.

THE MAYOR OF CASTERBRIDGE - Thomas Hardy (BBC)
In a destitute and drunken state, the tormented Michael Henchard sells his wife and daughter to a sailor. Haunted by the memory of this betrayal, he decides to change his ways and in the process becomes a respectable, prosperous man.

Twenty years later, his wife and daughter reappear, offering him the choice of redemption or a further descent into the web of deceit and betrayal.

This BBC drama series from 1977 stars Alan Bates, Anne Stallybrass, Anna Massey and Janet Maw.

Certificate U

THE MAYOR OF CASTERBRIDGE - Thomas Hardy
In this lavish adaptation of Hardy's celebrated novel, Ciaran Hinds plays the tormented Michael Henchard, supported by James Purefoy, Jodhi May, Juliet Aubrey and Polly Walker.

Henchard, in a destitute and drunken state, sells his wife and daughter at a country fair. Haunted by this betrayal, the itinerant farmhand decides to change his ways and reform himself. Eventually he becomes a respectable and prosperous man.

Twenty years later, his wife and daughter reappear on his doorstep, offering him the chance of redemption or a further descent into the web of deceit and betrayal.

Certificate PG.

TESS OF THE D'URBEVILLES - Thomas Hardy (BBC)
Thomas Hardy's thrilling story of seduction, love and betrayal is brought magnificently to the screen in this 2008 adaptation by the BBC.

Starring Gemma Arterton in the title role and supported by Hans Matheson, Eddie Redmayne, Jodie Whittaker, Ruth Jones and Anna Massey, this version shows precisely why the BBC enjoys such a brilliant worldwide reputation for period drama.

Not to be missed!

Certificate 15.

TESS OF THE D'URBERVILLES - Thomas Hardy (ITV)
ITV adaptation of Thomas Hardy's classic novel, set in his fictional county of Wessex.

Tess is a poor maid who is sent to work for distant relatives following the death of her parents. She is pursued and eventually becomes pregnant by Alex D'Urbeville. Tess flees, and finds work as a milkmaid.

She falls in love with the handsome Angel Clare who proposes marriage, but tragedy strikes when Tess decides to confess her past to him the night before their wedding.

Starring: John McEnery, Jason Flemyng, Lesley Dunlop, Oliver Milburn and Justine Waddell.

Certificate PG

TESS - Thomas Hardy
Roman Polanski's beautiful, Oscar-winning adaptation of the Thomas Hardy novel.

A 19th-century peasant, John Durbeyfield, discovers he descends from a noble family, the d'Urbervilles and sends his eldest daughter Tess to live with Alec d'Urberville, a rich cousin.

It soon emerges that the illustrious name was purchased by Alec's father. Tess is seduced by Alec and gives birth to a child that dies in infancy.

Whilst attempting to escape from her destiny, she meets Angel Clare, a pastor's son. They fall in love and get married. On their wedding night, Tess reveals her past to him. He cannot forgive her and deserting her, goes off to Brazil.

Starring Nastassja Kinski, Peter Firth, Tom Chadbon, David Markham, Sylvia Coleridge and Carolyn Pickles.

Certificate PG.

UNDER THE GREENWOOD TREE - Thomas Hardy
Set in a rustic English village in the mid 19th century, Under The Greenwood Tree tells the story of a poor young man who falls for a middle-class schoolteacher and attempts to win her over.

Starring Sean Arnold and Keeley Hawes.

Certificate PG.

D.H.Lawrence

LADY CHATTERLEY'S LOVER - D.H.Lawrence
D.H. Lawrence's controversial novel of a rich Lady who becomes bored by the lack of sex in her marriage, has been transformed into a sensual masterpiece.

Seeking satisfaction with her husband's gamekeeper, she is oblivious of the social scandal she is creating. Unlike Ken Russell's BBC version, this closely follows the story of Lawrence's original novel.

Starring Sylvia Kristel and Nicholas Clay.

Certificate 18.

THE RAINBOW - D.H. Lawrence
Defying the moral constraints of Victorian England and her parents, a young woman engages in unbridled promiscuity with two partners before setting out to capture the full sensuality of life itself.

Ken Russell's sensuous film version of DH Lawrence's novel follows his Academy Award winning adaptation of Women In Love and stars Sammi Davis, Paul McGann, Amanda Donohoe and Glenda Jackson.

Set in the Midlands of Victorian England, The Rainbow tells the story of a rebellious young woman (Davis) who, after defying her paretns and society's morality, engages in an unbridled and passionate affair first with her beautiful schoolteacher (Donohoe), then with a fascinating young soldier (McGann), before setting out on her own to capture the fuller sensuality of life itself.

Certificate 15.

SONS AND LOVERS - D.H.Lawrence
This television adaptation of D H Lawrence's 'Sons and Lovers' stars Sarah Lancashire as Gertrude Morel who is trapped in an unhappy marriage to Walter (Hugo Speer), a heavy-drinking, brutish, uneducated miner.

As Gertrude becomes estranged from Walter she channels her love and life expectations into her sons- particularly Paul (Rupert Evans). As Paul matures, tension develops in his relationship with Gertrude and his love for two other women causes a fatal battle of strangulating, possessive love.

Certificate 15

WOMEN IN LOVE - D.H. Lawrence
Directed by Ken Russell and staring Alan Bates, Oliver Reed, Glenda Jackson and Jennie Linden, this is an excellent adaptation of Lawrence's novel.

Growing up in sheltered 1920's England, Gudrun and Ursula know little about the ways of love. So when they pursue thrilling, torrid affairs with a notorious playboy and a brooding philanderer, what they discover about themselves and their lovers may be more all-consuming than they ever dared imagine.

E.M.Forster

HOWARDS END - E.M.Forster
An excellent Merchant Ivory production of E.M.Forster's 1910 Edwardian romance.

A superb cast includes: Anthony Hopkins, Emma Thompson, Helena Bonham-Carter, Vanessa Redgrave, James Witby and Prunella Scales.

A PASSAGE TO INDIA - E.M.Forster
David Lean's brilliant film captures the charm and the tragedy of Forster's great novel of love, tension and intrigue.

With exquisite locations and a brilliant cast which includes Alec Guinness, Peggy Ashcroft, Nigel Havers, Victor Banerjee, Saed Jaffrey, Judy Davis and James Fox, this award winning film is a great tribute to Lean's directorial brilliance.

Cert PG

A ROOM WITH A VIEW - E.M.Forster
When Lucy Honeychurch, a young Englishwoman, and her spinster chaperone Charlotte travel to Italy, they meet Mr Emerson, an unconventional Englishman. When George, his enigmatic and romantically unhappy son, kisses Lucy during a picnic in the Florentine hills, Charlotte rushes her back to England.

Safely home, she becomes engaged to her very proper fiancé Cecil. However, after finding that the Emersons have moved close by, she finds it hard to ignore the unsuitable George.

Splendidly adapted from the novel by E.M. Forster, this ia a comedy of the heart, a passionate romance and a study of repression within the class system of manners and mores.

The Merchant-Ivory team received eight Academy Award nominations for this film, and won the Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay, Art Direction and Costume Design.

'A Room With a View' stars Helena Bonham Carter, Maggie Smith, Denholm Elliot, Daniel Day Lewis, Judi Dench and Simon Callow.

Certificate PG

WHERE ANGELS FEAR TO TREAD - E.M. Forster
Charles Sturridge's adaptation of E.M. Forster's classic novel treats the topic of British Edwardian society with poignancy and humour.

Based on the novel by E.M.Forster, Lilia Herriton, a young widow is sent to Italy by her in-laws to recuperate. There she meets and falls in love with a young Italian dentist to the great concern of her family. Dramatic and tragic events follow.

Helen Mirren plays the tragically flighty Lilia with Helena Bonham-Carter, Rupert Graves and Judy Davis also in prominent roles. Add some beautiful Italian locations and a delightful music score and the result is a stimulating and provocative film.

Certificate PG.

English Novels (General)

PLEASE NOTE:
Jane Austen, the Bronte sisters, Charles Dickens, EM Forster, Elizabeth Gaskell, Thomas Hardy and DH Lawrence are catalogued separately. Please see the full English catalogue to the left of screen.

ABOUT A BOY - Nick Hornby
The coming together of idle playboy Will (Hugh Grant) and put-upon loner Marcus (Nicholas Hoult) is a revealing tale of self-understanding and role reversal. Will finds that being yourself is of little consequence without a defining human context, while Marcus finds that pleasing others counts for little without a degree of self confidence.

How they arrive at this complementary awareness is the intriguing subject matter of the film, involving well-meaning single mothers, difficult adolescents and helpless older adults.

Hugh Grant clips both his hair and his vowels for a believable and ultimately sympathetic Will - by far his best performance since Four Weddings and a Funeral - whilst Rachel Weisz gives her best screen performance to date as the attractive and vulnerable Rachel, with whom Will comes of age emotionally.

A film in the best traditions of British comedy.

Certificate 12.

KES - Barry Hines
A moving and compassionate film of Barry Hines' novel 'A Kestrel for a Nave'.

For Billy, whose expectations lead no further than following his brother into the pits when he reaches manhood, everything changes when he finds Kes, a young kestrel, whom he trains. Their relationship becomes symbolic of a doomed attempt to escape the drudgery of the industrial north.

Adapted for the screen by Kenneth Loach, Tony Garnett and Barry Hines and directed by Kenneth Loach, this film is an astute and authentic analysis of society at large.

Starring David Bradley, Colin Welland, Lynne Perrie and Brian Glover.

Certificate PG.

ATONEMENT - Ian McEwan
Award-winning film adaptation of Ian McEwan's best-selling novel.

Through a series of catastrophic misunderstandings Robbie Turner is accused of a crime he did not commit.

This accusation and subsequent imprisonment brings devastating consequences both to Robbie and Cecilia, his new found love, dramatically altering the course of their lives.

A sweeping and romantic story that is both captivating and deeply moving whilst staying largely faithful to the novel.

Starring James McAvoy and Keira Knightley.

Certificate 15.

COLD COMFORT FARM - Stella Gibbons
Recently orphaned, London society girl Flora Poste ignores the advice of her friend and mentor Mrs. Sage and moves to the country to live on a decrepit farm with her eccentric relatives.

Fancying herself as a writer, Flora encounters perfect material for her novel in the humorously odd collection of country caricatures. In her own inimitable way, Flora sets about creating order from their chaos and in the process she fills their lives with light and laughter.

Full of charm and clever satire, this film stars Kate Beckinsale as Flora and Joanna Lumley as Mrs Sage supported by Stephen Fry and Ian McKellen. It is directed by John Schlesinger.

Certificate PG.

CHARLOTTE GRAY - Sebastian Faulks
Once they were housewives, waitresses or factory workers. Now, they're World War II spies for Britain.

Cate Blanchett stars as the courageous young woman who embarks upon a dangerous foray behind enemy lines while keeping secret her personal mission to find her lover, an RAF pilot downed over occupied France.....

This story of an ordinary woman in an extraordinary time stars Cate Blanchett, Abigail Cruttenden, Michael Gambon, Robert Hands and Charlotte McDougall.

The DVD also includes interviews with Cate Blanchett, and Director Gillian Armstrong, the documentary 'The Real Charlotte Gray' and a Director's Commentary.

Certificate 15.

DRACULA - Bram Stoker
Francis Ford Coppola returns to the original source of the Dracula myth, and from that Gothic romance, he creates a modern masterpiece.

It follows the tortured journey of the devastatingly seductive Transylvanian Prince (Gary Oldman) as he moves from Eastern Europe to 19th century London in search of his long lost Elisabeta, who is reincarnated as the beautiful Mina (Winnona Ryder). Anthony Hopkins co-stars as the famed Doctor Van Helsing and Keanu Reeves is Jonathan Harker who is forced to fight the dark forces of Dracula for the love of Mina.

'Visually stunning, passionately seductive and utterly irresistable, this is Dracula as you've never seen him before - a powerful and poignant vampire whose yearning for human love ultimately proves his undoing!'

Also included on this DVD is the documentary'The Man, the Myth, the Legend'.

Certificate 18.

Dr JEKYLL and Mr HYDE - Robert Louis Stevenson
One man is a paragon of virtue, the other is a murderous creature of the London night. They are Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde - and they are the same person.

Two versions on one DVD. The expressionistic 1932 version (92 mins) stars Fredric March as the man-monster, whilst the 1941 version (108 mins) has Spencer Tracey in a glossy star-powered work whose Freudian undercurrents include a dream landscape in which carriage horses whipped by Hyde transform into the women in his life (Ingrid Bergman and Lana Turner).

A fascinating opportunity to contrast and compare these two excellent versions.

Certificate 12.

THE END OF THE AFFAIR - Graham Greene
Set in London in 1946, this faithful adaptation of Greene's famous novel tells the tale of novelist Maurice Bendrix (Ralph Fiennes).

After a random meeting with the husband of his ex-lover Sarah (Julianne Moore), Bendrix is once again drawn into her web, trying to discover for himself the reason she aborted their relationship two years before. T

he reintroduction of Maurice into Sarah's life fills her with confusion, forcing her to come to terms with her past decision, and challenging her to deal objectively with her deteriorating health.

Also staring Deborah Findlay, Ian Hart, James Bolam, Jason Isaacs, Sam Bould and Stephen Rea.

A beautifully evocative film with plenty to admire.

Certificate 18

FRANKENSTEIN - Mary Shelley
In the late 18th century, after the death of his beloved mother, the young Victor Frankenstein leaves his father and Elizabeth, the adopted sister he passionately loves, to attend university. Here he becomes obsessed with the teaching of Professor Walman who believes that living creatures can actually be created from dead matter.

One electrifying night, Frankenstein's efforts are rewarded as his creature struggles to life. Alone, despised and driven by a rage of emotional agony, it sets off to find its maker. And so begins the nightmare that will engulf Victor Frankenstein.

An all-star cast includes Robert De Niro, Kenneth Branagh, Helena Bonham-Carter, Cherie Lunghi, Robert Hardy, Celia Imrie, Ian Holm, John Cleese and Richard Briers.

Certificate 15.

THE FRENCH LIEUTENANT'S WOMAN - John Fowles
Oscar winners Meryl Streep and Jeremy Irons star as two separate pairs of lovers in this engaging and beautifully visualized film.

The screenplay by Harold Pinter, which weaves together two parallel story lines, is ingenious and accomplished - even though it does take considerable liberties with John Fowles' original novel. It is nevertheless compelling - and beautifully realised.

As Mike and Anna, two film actors involved in a tumultuous affair, and Charles and Sarah, the star-crossed Victorian lovers whom the actors portray, Streep and Irons are at their compelling best. Just as his character Charlie's reputation is ruined by the enigmatic Sarah, Mike finds he cannot accept the intangible affections of the wily Anna.

The skilful interweaving of these two love stories - one period, one contemporary - yields a fascinating insight into the passion and mystery that can pull two people together and just as easily tear them apart.

Directed by Karel Reisz.

Certificate 15.

THE HISTORY OF MR POLLY - H.G. Wells
John Mills stars in this celebrated adaptation of the H.G. Wells classic. Mr Polly is a sensitive soul, idling away his days as a humble draper's assistant until one day he is abruptly sacked for daydreaming at work.

His well ordered life is plunged into chaos, until his father's death brings him a sudden large inheritance. He splashes out on a brand new bicycle and sets off to explore the world and seek out adventure but a doomed love affair quickly destroys his newfound dreams. The bicycle is stored away and Mr Polly opens up his own draper's shop in a dismal little town.

Fifteen years later finds him unhappily married and almost bankrupt. His thoughts drift towards suicide - but there may yet be another avenue of escape for the hapless Mr Polly.

The cast also includes: Betty Ann Davies, Finlay Currie, Diana Churchill, Sally Ann Howes, Juliet Mills and Irene Handl.

Certificate U

LORD OF THE FLIES - William Golding
A disturbing tale of conflict and savagery based on the novel by William Golding.

This is the original B&W version which closely follows Golding's work. It is directed by Peter Hall and stars James Aubrey, Tom Chapin, Hugh Edwards and Roger Elwin.

Certificate PG

LORNA DOONE - R.D.Blackmore
This excellent and lavish BBC production brings the classic tale of revenge and family warfare to life with a sterling cast.

The epic family saga begins in 1675 when insurgence against the Catholic King James II, of England and Scotland, runs rampant. The fierce Doone clan has galloped into a farming village, murdering the village's protector, the father of young John Ridd. Determined to avenge his father's death, the teenager goes into the Doone Valley where he meets the independent but vulnerable Lorna Doone - ward of the clan leader, Ensor Doone - who was kidnapped as a child.

Meeting again years later, the two fall in love, but Lorna has been unwillingly engaged to her cousin Carver. As their love grows, Ridd finds a new reason to pursue his campaign against the villains that have long dominated his world, and protecting Lorna becomes equal to revenge.

Lorna, however, may not be quite what she seems.....

Certificate PG.

MIDDLEMARCH - George Eliot
For anyone who enjoys the BBC's adaptations of great novels or for those just looking for a great story to sink their teeth into, Middlemarch will not disappoint.

This BBC adaptation of George Eliot's Middlemarch is so remarkable that after viewing it disaffected English Literature students may well find themselves revisiting the novel with great anticipation. Over the course of six hours, we are immersed in the lives of Dorothea Brooke, Mr Ladislaw and Dr Lydgate. Set in the fictional town of Middlemarch in the early 19th century, the stories of the townsfolk are woven seamlessly together, with strands of political fervour and social commentary subtly incorporated.

Starring Juliet Aubrey, Douglas Hodge, Patrick Malahide and Robert Hardy.

Certificate PG.

THE MILL ON THE FLOSS - George Eliot
Starring Emily Watson, Cheryl Campbell, James Frain and Bernard Hill, this adaptation of George Elliot's novel is another excellent offering from BBC tv. It is a classic tale of love, rejection and reconciliation.

Maggie Tulliver is a rare free spirit in Victorian society who has to look outside the love of her own family to find the companionship and life she craves.

Certificate PG.

THE PAINTED VEIL - Somerset Maugham
Based on the novel by Somerset Maugham, 'The Painted Veil' is an epic and captivating love story set in the 1920s.

It tells the tale of a young English couple - Walter, a middle-class doctor and Kitty, an upper-class woman - who get married for the wrong reasons. They relocate to Shanghai where she falls in love with someone else. In an act of vengeance when he uncovers her infidelity, he accepts a job in a remote village ravaged by a deadly cholera epidemic, and insists that Kitty accompany him.

There, in one of the most remote and beautiful places on earth, they find meaning and purpose in their relationship. Despite the human wreckage and tragedy of their surroundings Kitty and Walter discover forgiveness, understanding, tenderness and eventually each other.

Starring Naomi Watts, Edward Norton, Liev Schrieber, Diana Rigg and Toby Jones. Directed by John Curran.

Certificate 12.

THE PICTURE OF DORIAN GRAY - Oscar Wilde
Enthralled by his own exquisite portrait, Dorian Gray exchanges his soul for eternal youth and beauty.

Influenced by his friend Lord Henry Wotton, he is drawn into a corrupt double life; indulging his desires in secret while remaining a gentleman in the eyes of polite society. Only his portrait bears the traces of his decadence.

The Picture of Dorian Gray was a succès de scandale. Early readers were shocked by its hints at the 'unspeakable sins', and the book was later used as evidence against Wilde at the Old Bailey in 1895.

This 1945 film stars George Sanders, Angela Lansbury, Hurd Hatfield and Donna Reed.

Certificate 12

NB: This film is no longer released in the UK and inasmuch as it is now out of copyright, we offer a legitimate copy for the purpose of educational study.

REMAINS OF THE DAY - Kazuo Ishiguro
One of Merchant-Ivory's most thought-provoking films.

Anthony Hopkins is a model of restraint and propriety as Stevens, the butler who "knows his place". Emma Thompson is the animated and sympathetic Miss Kenton, the housekeeper whose attraction to Stevens is doomed to disappointment.

As Nazi appeaser Lord Darlington, James Fox clings to the notion of a gentleman's agreement in the ruthless political climate before World War Two. Hugh Grant is his journalist nephew all too aware of reality, while Christopher Reeves gives a spirited portrayal of an American senator, whose purchase of Darlington Hall 20 years on sends Stevens on a journey to right the mistake he made out of loyalty.

As a period drama with an ever-relevant message, this 1993 film is absorbing viewing all the way.

Certificate U.

SPIES - Michael Frayn
Martin Jarvis reads Michael Frayn's novel.

In the quiet cul-de-sac where Keith and Stephen live, the only immediate signs of the Second World War are the blackout at night and a single random bombsite.

But the two boys start to suspect all is not as it seems when one day Keith announces a disconcerting discovery: the Germans have infiltrated his own family. And when the secret underground world they have dreamed up emerges from the shadows, they find themselves engulfed in mysteries far deeper and more painful than they had bargained for.

TIS PITY SHE'S A WHORE - John Ford
Entering into a secret and incestuous love affair with her brother, Giovanni, Annabelle becomes pregnant.

As she hides her shameful passion from the world, she must spurn a throng of eligible bachelors. Finally forced by the church to wed the unrelenting Soranzo, she succumbs to the marriage bed in a searing scene of sensual splendor.

Her unholy secret is discovered…and the erotic tensions build to a terrifying banquet of death.

John Ford's play, first performed in the 1630's, is as shocking and absorbing today as it was then.

Starring Charlotte Rampling, Oliver Tobias, Antonio Falsi and Cherie Lunghi

Certificate:
Unclassified, but clearly only appropriate for a mature audience. Consideration of the play's content is recommended before showing to secondary students.

VANITY FAIR - William Makepeace Thackeray
Thackeray's classic novel of Nineteenth century England tells the compelling story of Becky Sharp (Reese Witherspoon) a young orphan girl who attempts to rise above her station in very class-conscious British society by using her quick wits and feminine wiles.

She captures the heart of Rawdon Crawley (James Purefoy) who chooses love over the famly fortune in spite of the damage it might do to their relationship. Against the background of the wars against Napoleon she continues her social ascension, though is met by gossip and opposition at every stage.

The excellent cast also includes Bob Hoskins, Jim Broadbent, Eileen Atkins and Natasha Little. The costuming is excellent, as are the locations (including Hampton Court Gardens and India). All combine with gorgeous music to make this a worthy version of a classic tale about a feminist ahead of her time.

Certificate PG

THE WAY WE LIVE NOW - Anthony Trollope
A six-part BBC mini-series adapted from the satirical 1875 novel by Anthony Trollope.

Augustus Melmotte, a mysterious international financier of questionable parentage, has moved to London. Invading the uppermost circles of Victorian society, he inveigled a considerable number of prominent Londoners in a spectacular get-rich-quick scheme.

Among those involved were the Carburys, an aristocratic family who have had better times and are anxious to recoup their fortunes by whatever means necessary.

The central plot is set against the somewhat one-sided romance between Melmotte's rebellious daughter Marie and caddish Sir Felix Carbury, the exploits of an American adventuress with a predilection to shoot her lovers, and a high-born author of trashy romance novels.

Though written in the late 19th century, the story line had a queasily contemporary significance.

Starring David Suchet, Matthew Macfadyen, Shirley Henderson and Miranda Otto.

Certificate 12.

Other Novels

THE ADVENTURES OF HUCKLEBERRY FINN - Mark Twain
Mark Twain's immortal tale of the fraud, hypocrisy and bigotry of adults as seen through the eyes of an innocent boy and his friend Jim, a runaway slave.

As they make their way along the Mississippi, they meet a motley collection of self-important characters and try their best to understand them despite their obvious flaws.

Starring Jim Dale, Patrick Day and Lillian Gish with the voice of Geraldine Page.

Certificate 12.

AWAY FROM HER
A beautifully moving love story based on Alice Munro's short story, 'The Bear Came Over the Mountain'.

Married for 50 years, Grant and Fiona's life together has been full of tenderness and humour, but when Alzheimer's disease strikes, Fiona is admitted to a specialist nursing home.

For the first month Grant is not allowed to visit her. When he finally gains access to his wife she no longer remembers him and has transferred her affections to Aubrey, another resident.

When Aubrey leaves the nursing home Fiona becomes deeply depressed and Grant embarks on the greatest act of self-sacrifice of his life.

A brilliant award-winning performance by Julie Christie, in what may be her best ever performance, is well supported by Gordon Pinsent and Olympia Dukakis.

Certificate 12.

CAPTAIN CORELLI'S MANDOLIN - Louis De Bernieres
Although lacking much of the depth and complexity of the book, this film version is a beautiful adaptation which preserves the novel's flavour while focusing on its love story set against the turbulence of World War II.

Set in 1940, on the Greek island of Cephallonia, the occupying Italian troops are only awkwardly allied with the Nazis - and this is embodied by Captain Corelli, who is drawn to the beautiful Pelagia despite her engagement to Mandras, a resistance fighter whose absence leaves Pelagia needy for affection.

Mandras's eventual return - and the inevitable attack by German forces - threaten to stain this Greek-Italian romance with tragic bloodshed.

The film charts the unlikely attraction of Corelli and Pelagia, whose physician father fears for the worst. Their love is uneasy but the island's beguiling atmosphere is as seductive to them as it is to the viewer, thus making the outbreak of violence jarringly traumatic.

Faults will be found by anyone looking for them, but Captain Corelli's Mandolin remains a sensuous, richly layered film that many will find hard to resist.

Starring Nicolas Cage in the title role with Penelope Cruz, John Hurt, Christian Bale and Irene Papas.

Certificate 15

CATCH 22 - Joseph Heller
From a fantastic opening sequence, this satire after the novel by Joseph Heller takes the lid off war and US imperialism.

Catch 22 is the tale of a small group of flyers in the Mediterranean in 1944. There are winners and losers, opportunists and survivors. Separately and together, they are frightened, nervous, often profane and sometimes pathetic. Almost all are a little crazy. Catch 22 is an anti-war satire of epic proportions, intelligent and very funny.

The excellent cast includes Martin Balsam, Alan Arkin, Anthony Perkins, Bob Newhart, Paula Prentiss, Martin Sheen, Orson Welles, Jon Voigt and Art Garfunkle.

Certificate 15

COLD MOUNTAIN - Charles Frazier
Based on Charles Frazier's novel, this film by Anthony Menghella is set convincingly against the background of the American Civil War. With its high calibre cast, it is a saga of friendship, romance and the horrors of war.

It is a liberal adaptation of Frazier's novel with a reworked ending but it still maintains the essence of his work.

Highlights include some dynamic acting and the violent, percussive intensity of the recreation of the 1864 Battle of Petersburg.

The leading actors include Nicole Kidman, Jude Law, Renee Zellweger, Ray Winstone and Donald Sutherland.

Certificate 15.

THE COLOR PURPLE - Alice Walker
Based on Alice Walker's Pulitzer prize-winning novel, The Color Purple is the richly textured story of Celie, an uneducated woman living in the rural American South.

Forced to marry a brutal man she calls 'MR', Celie turns inward and shares her grief only with God. But she is transformed by the friendship of two remarkable women, acquiring self-worth and the strength to forgive.

Directed by Steven Spielberg and starring Danny Glover, Whoopi Goldberg, Oprah Winfrey and Margaret Avery.

Certificate 15

CRY THE BELOVED COUNTRY - Alan Paton
This excellent adaptation of Alan Paton's novel gives a graphic insight into life in South Africa under apartheid.

Father Stephen Kumalo lives in a small town, detached from the racial injustices of the larger cities. But when he hears that his sister is in trouble, he travels to Johannesburg. There his eyes are opened to the violence, poverty and hardships of his fellow countrymen.

He discovers that - simply in order to stay alive - his sister and his estranged son have engaged in illegal activities. In addition, his son has killed a white man. Father Kumalo realises that he faces an uphill battle to keep his reunited family together.

The cast includes James Earl Jones, Richard Harris, Leleti Khumalo, Charles S. Dutton, Dambisa Kente, Eric Miyeni and Vusi Kunene.

Certificate PG.

IMPORTANT NOTICE:
This DVD is coded for Region 1. This is the system used in North America. To play it you will require either a Region 1 DVD player - or a multi-region machine. Although much modern equipment is multi-region you are advised to check the compatibility of your equipment before ordering. We will not exchange or refund once a sealed unit has been opened.

DANCES WITH WOLVES - Michael Blake
In 1865, Civil War hero Lt John Dunbar asks to be reassigned to the Western frontier before it disappears. At his isolated post he develops a relationship with the peaceful Lakota Sioux and a white woman who lives among them, finding greater kinship with them than with his own people.

Kevin Costner stars and directs supported by an excellent cast featuring Gordon Tootoosis, Graham Greene, Mary McDonnell, Rodney A Grant and Wes Studi.

Winner of seven 'Oscars'.

Certificate 15.

Dr ZHIVAGO - BORIS PASTERNAK - (David Lean)
Boris Pasternak's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, with screenplay by Robert Bolt, is here given the full David Lean treatment.

Sumptuous settings, haunting music (Maurice Jarre) and an all-star cast combine to provide an unforgettable cinematic experience set at the time when Tzarist Russia was charginbg headlong into revolution.

The cast includes: Omar Sharif (Zhivago), Julie Christie (Lara), Tom Courtenay (Strelnikov), Rod Steiger (Kamarovsky) and Alec Guinness (Yevgraf). Also featured are: Geraldine Chaplin, Ralph Richardson, Rita Tushingham and Siobhan McKenna.

Certificate 15.

THE ENGLISH PATIENT - Michael Ondaatje
Based on Michael Ondaatje's Booker Prize-winning novel, this beautiful film was the winner of nine 'Oscars' - including Best Picture.

Set during the Second World War, this epic romance tells the story of a mysterious Englishman found badly burned in the Sahara.

His nurse transports him across war-torn Europe taking him to a deserted Tuscan monastery where he can die in peace. There they become friends and she begins to read to him from a book he wrote about a previous relationship with a married woman with whom he fell in love whilst working in the Middle East.

Ralph Fiennes plays the title role and is brilliantly supported by Kristin Scott-Thomas, Juliette Binoche, Colin Firth and William Dafoe.

Certificate 15.

A FAREWELL TO ARMS - Ernest Hemingway
An American in the Italian Army is wounded in action. He is nursed back to health by a pretty nurse. A 1957 remake of the 1932 original based on the novel by Ernest Hemmingway.

Starring Rock Hudson, Jennifer Jones, Vittoria De Sica and Elaine Stritch.

Certificate PG

THE GREAT GATSBY - F. Scott Fitzgerald
Robert Redford and Mia Farrow star in this faithful adaptation of Scott Fitzgerald's popular novel set in the USA of the 1920's with its 'flapper'parties and hot jazz.

Scripted by Francis Ford Coppola and directed by Jack Clayton, this is a feast to both the eye and the ear. Great entertainment.

Certificate PG.

MADAME BOVARY - Gustave Flaubert
Trapped on a small provincial French farm with her widowed father, Emma dreams of marrying her way up the social ladder to lead a glittering, fairytale life amid the bright lights of the big city.

To escape, she marries a young doctor, Charles Bovary, but his dull, pedestrian ways and lack of ambition soon leave her disenchanted and dreaming of a grander life elsewhere.

Enchanted by stories of the many affairs of Mary Antoinette and the great romances she finds in novels, Madame Bovary embarks on a path of betrayal and illicit affairs in her desperate search for fulfilment. It is a treacherous path that will ultimately lead not to her dreams but her utter ruin.

A classic BBC drama starring Frances O'Connor, Claire Hackett, Hugh Bonneville, Eileen Atkins and Keith Baron.

Certificate 15.

OF MICE AND MEN - John Steinbeck
John Malcovich and Gary Sinese star in this adaptation of John Steenbeck's celebrated novel.

Two farm workers in Depression-era California befriend an ageing farmhand on a ranch where they work as wheat harvesters. Wanting to escape their downtrodden existence as itinerant labourers, they resolve to buy a farm together. Their dream, however, is cruelly shattered.

Certificate PG.

Also available as an audiobook - read by Gary Sinise.

ONE FLEW OVER THE CUCKOOS NEST - Ken Kesey
Milos Forman's One Flew over the Cuckoo's Nest emphasises the humanistic story at the heart of Ken Kesey's more hallucinogenic novel.

Jack Nicholson plays the part of Randle Patrick McMurphy, the rebellious inmate of a psychiatric hospital who fights back against the authorities' cold attitudes of institutional superiority. It's the classic anti-establishment tale of one man asserting his individuality in the face of a repressive, conformist system.

Director Milos Forman casts some memorably eccentric faces, and gets such detailed and spontaneous work from his ensemble that the picture sometimes feels like a documentary.

One Flew over the Cuckoo's Nest hasn't dated because the qualities of human nature that Forman captures - playfulness, courage, inspiration, pride, stubbornness - are universal and timeless.

The film swept the Academy Awards for 1976, winning all the major categories: picture, director, actor, actress, screenplay.

Starring Jack Nicholson, Louise Fletcher and Michael Berryman.

Certificate 18.

THE TALENTED MR RIPLEY - Patricia Highsmith
Living a life of leisure on the sun-drenched Italian coast, Dickie Greenleaf (Jude Law) has it all: friends, the love of a beautiful woman (Gwyneth Paltrow) and the best things his father's money can buy. Tom Ripley (Matt Damon), on the other hand, has nothing but charm, good looks ..... and a deadly obsession to take over this young man's life.

In another landmark film from Oscar-winning director Anthony Minghella (The English Patient), a riveting game of stolen identity unfolds with Ripley's desperate attempt to stay one step ahead of ever growing suspicion.

Also starring Cate Blanchett and Jack Devenport.

Based on the novel by Patricia Highsmith.

Certificate 15.

TO KILL A MOCKING BIRD - Harper Lee
'A Story of hope over prejudice.'

A beautiful adaptation of Harper Lee's Pullitzer Prize-winning novel, this film retains a timeless quality that transcends its subject matter (racism in the Depression-era South) and remains powerfully resonant with its advocacy of tolerance, justice, integrity and loving parenthood.

Gregory Peck won an Oscar for his portrayal of Atticus Finch, a small-town Alabama lawyer defending a black man wrongfully accused of the rape and assault of a young white woman.

An evocative, exquisitively filmed drama with some very fine acting. Co-starring Robert Duval and Estelle Evans this film also won an Oscar for Best Screenplay.

Certificate PG

THE TRIAL - Franz Kafka
An adaptation, by Harold Pinter, of Franz Kafka's classic novel about one man's paranoia and persecution.

An innocent bank clerk - Josef K - is arrested for no obvious reason than perhaps to assert the State's authority. Declaring his innocence, he becomes more and more entangled in a bureaucratic jungle, putting himself in even greater danger. But no matter what he does, he can't make the nightmare end.

Starring Anthony Hopkins, Kyle Maclachlan and Juliet Stevenson.

Certificate 18

ALL QUIET ON THE WESTERN FRONT - Erich Maria Remarque
Based on the novel by Erich Maria Remarque. A group of German schoolboys, goaded by their schoolmaster to join the glorious war, set off to become soldiers.

Their disenchantment begins with brutal basic training and then, as they board the train to the front, they see the wounded being rushed to hospital. It is their first glimpse of the terrible reality of war.

In the trenches, one by one, the boys begin to fall.

Starring Richard Thomas, Ernest Borgnine, Donald Pleasence, Ian Holm, Patricia Neal and Dai Bradley.

Certificate PG.

Children's Literature

Nina Bawden - CARRIE'S WAR
14-year-old Carrie and her younger brother, Nick, are evacuated from London to a small Welsh town during World War II. They are taken in by the strict Mr Evans and his sister, Auntie Lou. Their adventures in the village of Druids Bottom and the adjustments they need to make in their lives are both moving and absorbing for any audience.

Based on the best-selling book by Nina Bawden.

An excellent BBC production in a wonderful setting and starring Alun Armstrong, Geraldine McEwan and Pauline Quirke

Certificate U.

Peter S. Beagle - THE LAST UNICORN
This adaptation of Peter S Beagle's classic best-seller tells the story of the last remaining unicorn on earth who sets out from her home in the lilac woods in the hope of finding another of her kind, meeting many colourful characters along the way.

With the voices of a star-studded cast, this film will enchant children everywhere.

Certificate U

Frances Hodgson Burnett - A LITTLE PRINCESS
A Little Princess has all the ingredients of a timeless classic. A marvel of production design, the film features lavish sets and a faithful adaptation of Frances Hodgson Burnett's timeless novel.

The story opens in New York just before the outbreak of World War I, when young Sara is sent to boarding school while her father goes off to war. Under the domineering scrutiny of the school's headmistress, Miss Minchen (Eleanor Bron), Sara quickly becomes popular with her schoolmates, but fate intervenes and she soon faces a stern reversal of fortune, resorting to wild flights of fancy to cope with an unexpectedly harsh reality.

A Little Princess encourages a child's power of imagination - a power that can be used to learn, grow, and adapt to a world that is often cruel and difficult. It's also one of the most visually beautiful films of the 90s and creates a fully detailed world within the boarding school - a place where imagination is vital to survival.

A first-class production in every respect.

Cetificate U.

Frances Hodgson Burnett - THE SECRET GARDEN
Agnieszka Holland's adaptation of Frances Hodgson Burnett's classic fairy tale is a highly entertaining family film that is overflowing with gorgeous imagery.

Ten-year-old Mary Lennox is a spoiled rich girl living in colonial India with her aloof parents who attend elegant parties and leave her in the care of their servants.

When her parents are killed, however, Mary is sent to England to live in the enormous manor of Lord Archibald Craven and his invalid son. Lord Craven, a miserable recluse, ignores them, leaving them in the care of Mrs. Medlock (Maggie Smith), an ironhanded authoritarian.

In this cold environment, the children, with help from spirited maid Martha and her younger brother Dickon, manage to find happiness in a special garden hidden away for years.

Beautifully filmed, this is a visual feast that captures the fantasy of the book without sacrificing any of Burnett's original vision. A film that individuals of every age can enjoy.

Certificate U

Roald Dahl - DANNY CHAMPION OF THE WORLD
Nine year-old Danny lives in a gypsy caravan with his father William, but Lord of the Manor, Victor Hazell, is determined to own the land on which their caravan stands by any means.

When William is snared by a man-trap, Danny devises a plot that will see the obnoxious Victor Hazell off.

Based on the story by Roald Dahl and starring Jeremy Irons, Robbie Coltrane, Lionel Jeffries, Michael Horden and Samuel Irons.

Certificate U.

Roald Dahl - MATILDA
The hilarious story of Matilda is based on the book by Roald Dahl.

There once lived an extraordinary young girl named Matilda, but unfortunately her parents were so obsessed with their own lives they hardly noticed her at all. They send her to Crunchem Hall, a horrible boarding school run by a bossy headmistress Miss Trunchbull. There, Matilda discovers remarkable skills, which allow her to turn the tables on the wicked grown-ups in her world.

Starring Mara Wilson, Danny De Vito and Pam Ferris.

Certificate PG

Ian Fleming - CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG
Dick Van Dyke is the daydreaming inventor who fixes up an old jalopy. With the vivid imaginations of his two children Jeremy and Jemima, and a lady friend Truly Scrumptious (Sally Ann Howes) it is transformed into a flying wonder that carries them to a magical kingdom.

There, they must endure the child catcher and save the kingdom's children from imprisonment.

Lionel Jeffries plays the delightfully inventive grandpa and Gert Frobe the spoilt Baron who hasn't grown up. Also starring Barbara Windsor, Benny Hill, James Robertson Justice and Anna Quayle. With some truly memorable songs and the fantastic flying car this is one of the greatest family films.

The script by Roald Dahl is based on a novel by Ian Fleming.

Certificate U.

Kenneth Grahame - THE WIND IN THE WILLOWS
In this unique stop-motion animation film, Kenneth Grahame's classic characters - Badger, Mole, Rat and Toad - embark on adventures in the beautiful Edwardian countryside.

This Cosgrove Hall production features the vocal talents of David Jason, Michael Hordern, Peter Sallis, Ian Carmichael, Una Stubbs and Beryl Reid.

It is presented as a 4-disc boxed set THE FOUR SEASONS.

Certificate U

C.S. Lewis - THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE
Four young children, Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy are evacuated to the country house of an old Professor. Whilst playing 'hide and seek' Lucy enters a wardrobe and discovers the magical world of Narnia.

There, an evil witch has pronounced herself Queen and rules over the fawns, beavers and mystical creatures of the kingdom. She has cast a spell over the land so that it is always winter but never Christmas.
Only Aslan the Lion can help them restore the seasons to Nania.

This Emmy Award winning animated production perfectly captures the spirit and charm of C.S. Lewis' famed book with a unique, visual style all its own. It is presented here digitally restored with the original UK voice cast for a new generation to discover.

Certificate U

Michelle Magorian - BACK HOME
Another of Michelle Magorian's delightful stories is brought impressively to the screen in this excellent adaptation of her novel of the same name.

When the war ends in 1945, thousands of young evacuees are returning to their families in Britain. Rusty Dickinson is one, having spent five years in America. She returns to a mother who has gained a new independence through her war work - and to a brother she has never met.

In a time of dramatic transformation, everyone must adapt both to changes in the family and to their surroundings. This does not come easily, but when Rusty's father returns from the war there is hope of a promising future. When he also finds it difficult to adjust, real tension grips the family.

With excellent performances from Sarah Lancashire, Stephanie Cole and Jessica Fox, this is a moving film which will appeal to audiences from upper Primary age to adult.

Certificate PG

Michelle Magorian - GOODNIGHT MR TOM
Set in a small English town at the beginning of WW2, GOODNIGHT MISTER TOM stars John Thaw as Tom Oakley, who reluctantly takes in Willy Beech, a shy young orphan, when the children of London are evacuated to rural towns in preparation for the expected German bombings.

Willie, an illiterate, bed wetting child who has endured a horrific childhood soon brings out the caring parent in Tom that had disappeared years ago, beginning a relationship that will change both their lives.

Based on Michelle Magorian's novel.


Certificate PG.

John Masefield - THE BOX OF DELIGHTS
As he travels home on the train for the Christmas holidays Kay Harker has the strangest feeling that something very mysterious is about to happen.....

There is snow on the wind and wild dogs are roaming the countryside. Then a chance meeting with an old Punch and Judy man with a shabby box of powers, pulls him into an array of fantastic worlds where he encounters ancient heroes, wolves, Romans, rats, flashing rings and flying ponies.

This memorable production with its enchanting adventures and magical atmosphere comes with a myriad of special features to enjoy.

Certificate U.

Lucy Maud Montgomery - ANNE OF GREEN GABLES
This adaptation of Lucy Maud Montgomery's classic children's story is one that actually sticks to the book with first-rate performances and an excellent script.

Set on Prince Edward Island in the late 19th century, it is the story of Anne Shirley, an imaginative and headstrong orphan. When brother and sister Marilla and Mathew Cuthbert decide to adopt a boy to help on their farm, they are astonished when Anne arrives at the station.

As Anne grows up, her adventures are both hilarious and moving as she forms a friendship with the beautiful Diana and her admirer - the dashing Gilbert Blythe - then dyes her hair green and finds a sympathetic teacher who encourages her to attend college.

Richard Farnsworth is perfect as the shy and gentle bachelor Matthew, Colleen Dewhurst gives a powerful performance as Marilla and Megan Follows, as Anne, strikes the perfect note, maturing from freckle-faced orphan to elegant and poised young woman.

Certificate U.

Edith Nesbit - THE RAILWAY CHILDREN
Set in Yorkshire at the dawn of the 20th century, THE RAILWAY CHILDREN is the story of three children whose father (unbeknown to them) has been wrongfully imprisoned for espionage.

The children spend their free time exploring the mystery of their father's disappearance and watching the nearby railway line in the hope that it will somehow bring them an answer. After they help prevent an accident on the line, the children are befriended by a mysterious old gentleman who may be able to provide some answers.

Jenny Agutter (who played Bobbie in a 1970 version) stars as Mother alongside Sir Richard Attenborough in this Masterpiece Theater presentation of Edith Nesbit's popular novel.

Certificate U

Anna Sewell - BLACK BEAUTY
This adaptation of Anna Sewell's classic 1877 novel is told from the point of view of Black Beauty himself -- who narrates the film.

Set in England, Black Beauty tells the story of his birth, his "colt-hood", and his perception of humans, since he has various owners throughout his life. Some of these owners are caring and compassionate, but others prove to be cruel and crude to the vulnerable Beauty, often placing him in life-threatening situations -- which he may or may not survive.

Starring Sean Bean, David Thewlis, Peter Davison and Alun Armstrong.

Certificate U.

Mark Twain - HUCKLEBERRY FINN
Huckleberry Finn, a young adventurer chafing under the bonds of civilization, escapes his humdrum world and his selfish, plotting father by sailing a raft down the Mississippi River.

Accompanying him are his friends Tom Sawyer and Jim, a runaway slave. Together they strike a bond of friendship that takes them through harrowing events and thrilling adventures.

Based on the classic novel by Mark Twain, this presentation features an excellent cast including Jim Dale, Patrick Day, Lilian Gish and the voice of Geraldine Page. A delight for both children and adults alike.

Certificate 12.

Mark Twain - THE PRINCE AND THE PAUPER
A magical story about two boys--one a royal prince, the other a poor mistreated urchin--who switch social positions by merely exchanging clothes.

It is a fantastic adventure which beautifully adapts Mark Twain's 1881 novel for the screen.

Aidan Quinn and Alan Bates star.

Certificate PG

E.B.White - CHARLOTTE'S WEB
A charming animated adaptation of E.B. White’s children’s classic in which Charlotte the spider teams up with Templeton the rat to save Wilbur the runt pig from a grizzly end.

On hearing that Wilbur is about to end up on a plate, Charlotte spins a web that reads "Some Pig," convincing the farmer that Wilbur is no ordinary pig and should be saved from slaughter. With Wilbur’s fate still unsure Charlotte spends her time thinking of ways to save her best friend’s life.

With songs by the Sherman brothers and superb voiceovers by the leading actors (led by Debbie Reynolds), this is an endearing, heartbreaking and hugely watchable film.

Certificate U.

Miscellaneous

THE ADVENTURE OF ENGLISH
The Biography of a Language - read by Melvyn Bragg.

English runs through the heart of world finance, medicine and the internet and is understood by about two thousand million people. Yet, in its early years, it was nearly wiped out.

Embracing elements from many other languages, some of which reflect Britain's imperial history, the story covers a huge range of countries and peoples.

'The Adventure of English' is not only an enthralling story of power, religion and trade, but also the story of people, and how their day-to-day lives shaped and continue to shape an extraordinary language.

Melvyn Bragg reads from his book of the same title on three CDs.

TALKING HEADS - Alan Bennett
Alan Bennett's 12 award-winning monologues from the two classic BBC tv series.

Alan Bennet's two series of moving and effectionate monologues delivered by the cream of British acting talent have become television drama classics. These poignant, perceptive and comjic stories venture beyond their characters' suburban normality into lives of secrets, revelations, fears, crimes and passions.

Starring: Alan Bennett, Patricia Routledge, Maggie Smith, Stephanie Cole, Julia Walters, Thora Hird, Eileen Atkkns, David Haig, and Penelope Wilton.

Certificate 12.

SHAKESPEARE IN LOVE
To be taken with a pinch of salt – but an entertaining insight into the world of the Bard as he struggled against writer's block during the gestation of his romantic comedy Romeo and Ethel.

A brilliant cast and director excel themselves with a marvellous Tom Stoppard / Marc Norman script. Starring Joseph Fiennes, Gwyneth Paltrow, Colin Firth, Judi Dench and directed by John Madden.

With wonderful locations, costumes and general period settings, this comedy-romp-cum-love-story nevertheless has much to offer to the student of Elizabethen England and the theatre (and audiences) for whom Shakespeare wrote.

Certificate 15.

GOD'S OUTLAW
William Tyndale, a brilliant wordsmith, gave his life for the English Bible. 90% of his translations from the original Greek and Hebrew formed the backbone of the King James Authorised version. A language was coming of age.

An unforgetable film for all with an interest in the drama and development of the English language - and the price paid to raise it to sublime heights.

Produced and Directed by Tony Tew for Grenville Film Productions and Channel Four, this multi award-winning film stars Roger Rees, Keith Baron, Oona Kirsch, Willoughby Goddard and Bernard Archard.

A gripping tale, beautifully told' (Daily Mail)

Poetry

Essential Poems (To fall in love with)
Passionate, touching and amusing, this poetic journey explores the highs and lows of romance through the world's most memorable love poems.

Filmed in the style of a mini-drama and set in modern locations, a star-studded cast of actors and celebrities recite poems that capture the emotions and passions of love, from the heady days of seduction to the pain of breaking up.

An excellent BBC production introduced by Daisy Goodwin, this DVD also features Alison Steadman, Matthew Macfayden, Christopher Lee, Lisa Tarbuck, Ioan Gruffudd, Damian Lewis, Amanda Holden, Ralf Little, Imogen Stubbs, Stephen Tompkinson and Prunella Scales.

Certificate PG

IN FLANDERS FIELDS
John McCrae's War : the story of the poem and the poppy.

A celebrated Canadian doctor, poet and socialite before enlisting in the armed forces, Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae was caught up in the wholesale slaughter of the Second Battle of Ypres in 1915. Amid the carnage, the death of one young fellow officer inspired him to write the immortal poem 'In Flanders Fields'.

This is the story of that poem and its author, broken and eventually destroyed by the horrors of war.

Combining vivid contemporary film footage and photography with interviews with historians and McCrae's biographers John Prescott and Dianne Graves, it provides an extraordinary insight into one of the most moving war poems ever written. An intriguing DVD.

Certificate: Exempt.

The War Poets
The futility and madness of the First World War was the spur for some of the greatest and most moving poetry ever written.

Introduced and narrated by Brian Blessed, this DVD traces the development of the art of war poetry from Anglo Saxon times to the nightmare of the trenches.

In addition to extensive contemporary footage and images, plus moving recitals by Brian Blessed, this DVD also features critique and analysis from Jon Stallworthy, reader of English Literature at Oxford University and Britain's foremost authority on war poetry.

Recommended for KS4 and 'A' Level pupils.

Robert Burns
The Man and his legend.
Presented by Iain Cuthbertson, this unique DVD tells the story of the tortured genius whose poverty and passion gave birth to some of literature's greatest works.

Featuring Scottish actor Jock Ferguson as Robert Burns, this programme combines atmospheric reconstructions and delightful footage shot on location in Ayrshire, with superb period imagery to bring vividly to life the story of Scotland's national poet.

With readings of some of Burns' finest works by Iain Cuthbertson, one of Scotland's best-loved and respected actors, this DVD provides a beautiful and moving record of a true literary giant.

THE CANTERBURY TALES
An excellent, animated adaptation of Geoffrey Chaucer's timeless masterpiece.

Produced for S4C and BBC Wales, and the winner of a BAFTA for Best Animated Short Film, this is a delightful series of ten programmes featuring a host of well known voices.

Using modern English (and with optional sub-titles) this offers an excellent introduction to Chaucer's work for use alongside the Chaucerian text.

Certificate PG.

PARADISE LOST - The Life and Times of John Milton
As indicated by the sub title, this DVD concentrates on Milton, the man, setting him within the England of his day.

We see him against the background of London's fire, the plague, turmoil and dissent within the church and still feeling the aftershocks of Civil War. Paradise Lost - arguably his greatest work - is seen to arise out of the mind and the world of John Milton.

Recommended for 'A' Level studies and beyond, this is an informative and revealing documentary which will add much to the understanding and appreciation of Milton's great poetic masterpiece.

Included on the DVD are extras on 'Milton & St Giles Church' (Cripplegate) and 'The Work of Milton'. Also an illuminating short piece is included on 'John Milton & the English Language' in which we glimpse something of his little recognised contribution to English vocabulary and expression.

THE SOLDIER POETS
An anthology of the most poignant poems of war, written by the men who fought - and in most cases died - in the war they wrote about.

Using archive battle footage from both the first and second world wars, this DVD relives the thoughts and feelings of the Soldier Poets.

Classification: Exempt.

Books & Magazines

The Bible

The Child's First Bible
by Kenneth Taylor

A beautiful treasury of the most familiar Bible texts retold simply for 3-5 year olds.

The Lion Children's Bible
by Pat Alexander

A firm favourite for children of 6-12 years old at school and at home.

The Children's Illustrated Bible
by Victoria Parker

A retelling of the Bible for the younger reader, beautifully illustrated and full of fascinating background information on the geography, history, culture and everyday life of the Bible lands and their people. Each large-format, softback volume is complete with Timeline, Glossary, People & Places Section and Index. A real treasure-trove.

£26.99 for both volumes - save £8.99

Children's Illustrated Bible
by Selina Hastings

Bible stories retold by Selina Hastings with illustrations by Eric Thomas. For 7-11 year olds.

What is the Bible?
by Sue Graves, Peter Dennis

A book to help 7-13s explore and understand the Bible: what it is and where it comes from. Beautifully illustrated.

The Book of Books
by Trevor Dennis

Trevor Dennis combines scholarship with storytelling to retell the books of the Bible with originality and exuberance.
For ages 8-14.

Mark, A Gospel for Today
by Simon & Christopher Danes

A new edition of this acclaimed textbook fully revised to meet current GCSE requirements. Full Bible extracts, colour illustrations and diagrams. A proven and successful resource.

The Bible (Lion Access Guide)
by Michael Keene

Essential information about the history and the world of the Bible, its contents and contemporary challenges.

The Bible: A History
by Stephen M Miller, Robert V Huber

A colourful illustrated history of one of the world’s most influential books, from its making, through its development, to its impact through the ages.

The Bible in English
by David Daniell

Bible scholar David Daniell tells the extraordinary story of the English Bible from the fourth century to the present, and charts its profound effect on the people and communities that read it.

The Bible Guide
by Andrew Knowles

An all-in-one introduction to the book of books, accessible, well illustrated and attractively presented.

Tyndale's Old Testament
David Daniell (ed)

In all its majesty: the first translation of the Bible from its original sources by the supreme craftsman of the English language, William Tyndale.

‘A fine work of scholarship by an editor sensitive to the beauty of our language.’ (Sunday Telegraph)

Tyndale's New Testament
David Daniell (ed)

In all its majesty: the first translation of the Bible from its original sources by the supreme craftsman of the English language, William Tyndale.

‘With a brilliant introduction by Dr Daniell and printed in a form worthy of its stature.’ (The Spectator)

In the Beginning
by Alister McGrath

The story of the King James Bible and how it changed a nation, a language and a culture. A very readable and intriguing account of how this landmark in the history of the English language came to be.

An Introduction to the New Testament and Origins of Christianity
by Delbert Burkett

An authoritative and accessible introduction to the New Testament and early Christian literature for students and all
interested in the origins of Christianity.

Introducing the Old Testament
by John Drane

A comprehensive survey of both the context and content of the Hebrew Bible, with additional material on the historical identity of ancient Israel and its theological legacy for today.

Introducing the New Testament
by John Drane

Probably the most authoritative and accessible survey of the subject both for students and general readers. This latest edition is a very substantial revision taking full account of recent scholarly developments. Recommended for A and AS level Religious Studies and general readers.

The Lost Bible
by J. Porter

A beautifully illustrated anthology of the ‘unofficial scriptures’ -sacred writings that were not incorporated into the Jewish and Christian Bibles. Highly accessible and lavishly illustrated with paintings by some of the great masters, many of which were inspired by these largely forgotten texts.

Usual price £25.00
Save over £5 with our special offer price of £19.99 - while stocks last.

Bible Stories

Easy Ways to Seasonal Plays
by Vickie Howe

Three simple, effective plays for Christmas, Easter and Harvest, for use with 3-7 year olds. Includes stories to tell, colouring and puzzle activities, helpful hints and stage suggestions.

First Festivals: Easter
by Lois Rock

Page after page of ideas, crafts and activities for children of 4-7 years of age to enjoy as they prepare for, and celebrate, Easter.

The Easter Story
by Lois Rock

A simple, dignified retelling of the Easter story. ‘An ideal book for all primary children’ (RE Today). For 5-11 year olds.

The Story of the Cross
by Mary Joslin, Gail Newey

The Stations of the Cross retrace Jesus’ last walk. The story and accompanying prayers are thoughtful and comforting.
For 4-8 year olds.

The Easter Angels
by Bob Hartman, Tim Jonke

A moving interpretation of the Resurrection for 6-11 year olds.

The Easter Alphabet
by Annie Faulkner

A page-by-page unfolding of the Easter story told through the imaginative use of the alphabet. The child is led through the events of Holy Week and Easter through short stories, delightful illustrations suitable for colouring and simple prayers.
For 7-9 year olds.

Jesus & The Early Church

The Story Of Jesus
by Anita Ganeri

A fun-packed sticker activity book filled with puzzles and creative activities that run alongside the story of Jesus.
For 5-8 year olds

Who is Jesus?
by Sarah Hall, Lisa Berkshire

The events of Jesus’ life and the main points of his teaching. ‘Recommended for lower primary classes, schools and families.’ (‘RE Today’)

Jesus (Lion Access Guide)
by Michael Keene

What do we know about Jesus, his teaching and his impact on human history? A clear, engaging portrait.

Jesus and His World
by Peter Walker

An excellent, beautifully illustrated book for those wanting to discover the historical Jesus and to gain an understanding of his world. Walker places Jesus firmly in the Jewish world but also describes his ministry, his teaching and the way he related to the world around him.

The Cambridge Companion to Jesus
Bockmuehl

An integrated introduction to the study of Jesus. Through historical description and critical and theological reflection, it incorporates the most up-to-date historical work on Jesus with the story of Christian faith and study, Jesus in a global church and the encounter with Judaism and Islam.

One Like Us
by Jack Dominian

Eminent psychiatrist Jack Dominian provides a ground-breaking profile of the human Jesus, examining his identity from the perspective of modern psychology and in the light of the Scriptures.

The Case of the Empty Tomb
by Josh McDowell

A sharply-written, illustrated, 16-page booklet in which the author outlines the historical and Scriptural evidence for the resurrection of Jesus. (Pack of 5)

Paul: A very short Introduction
by P. Sanders

A book to make you think afresh about the most powerful human personality in the history of the Church who laid the foundations on which later Christian theology was built.

The Cambridge Companion to St Paul
J. Dunn (ed)

An assessment of the Apostle Paul and a fresh appreciation of his continuing significance today.

Christians as the Romans saw them
by R. Louis

An engrossing portrayal of the early years of Christianity from the perspective of the Romans.

The Early Church
by Henry Chadwick

From the Penguin History of the Church.

Christian History (General)

The Oxford Illustrated History of Christianity
John McManners (ed)

The richly illustrated and uniquely comprehensive story of Christianity from its origins to the present day for the general reader.

2000 Years - the Christian Faith in Britain
by Nicola Currie

An attractive resource introducing Britain’s Christian history from Roman times to the present day. For 8-12 year olds.

The History of Christianity
Tim Dowley (ed)

An indispensable guide for study or leisure reading, written by over 60 scholars from around the world.

The Story of Christianity
by Michael Collins, Matthew A Price

From the Old Testament to the present day, this sumptuously illustrated account includes the early martyrs, the Crusades and the Reformation. 2000 years encapsulated in one beautiful book.

PLEASE NOTE:
This title is currently out of print. However, it is sometimes possible to acquire copies. Please enquire.

The Lion Treasury of Saints
by David Self

A wide-ranging book of saints and remarkable Christian lives, ranging from St Paul to Joan of Arc to Martin Luther King. A valuable resource for RE or for the home. For 7-13 year olds. Younger children will enjoy the beautiful illustrations, whilst older ones will find inspiration from the text.

Discovering Churches
by Lois Rock

This best-selling title is a discovery tour of church buildings and Christian beliefs. For 7-11 year olds.

Christian History Magazine
Christian History Institute

A series of excellent publications from the Christian History Institute. In magazine format, each issue examines a major character or movement from church history, their context and their impact on the development of the Christian faith. Well researched and documented, each issue offers easy and reliable insight into many of the major influences and developments of the Christian faith. Included are issues on: Jesus, St Paul, St Augustine, Francis of Assissi, John Hus, John Wycliffe, William Tyndale, Martin Luther, Ullrich Zwingli, Johm Calvin, William Carey, John Wesley and Dietrich Bonhoeffer.

The Middle Ages

The Good Man of Assisi
by Mary Joslin, Alison Wisenfeld

The story of St Francis in simple text with pictures inspired by frescoes in Assisi. Ages 6-11.

Francis of Assisi & his World
by Mark Galli

The life and influence of one of the most popular and charismatic figures in the history of Christendom. His impact on the Middle Ages and on the Church was immense, as has been his influence on Western culture ever since.

Faith in the Medieval World
by G.R. Evans

A fascinating picture of the world in the Middle Ages and the development of Christianity in the pre-Reformation era. Very accessible text. Beautifully illustrated and designed.

Wycliffe & Hus (The Reformers Series)
by John Broome

Useful, short introductions to two heralds of the Reformation.

John Wycliffe: Dawn of the Reformation
by David Fountain

A very readable and authoritative introduction to the ‘Morning Star’ of the Reformation.

Reformation

Camb. Companion to Martin Luther
D. McKim (Ed)

An introduction for students and all interested in the first great Protestant reformer.

Luther & his World
by Graham Tomlin

An ideal introduction to one of the giants of Christian history, examining his character and bringing to life the world of the early reformers and their battles over the way forward for the new church.

A Mighty Fortress
by J. Cromarty

A fresh and fast moving biography of Martin Luther. An excellent foundation for further study of the Reformation.

Martin Luther: (The Reformers Series)
by John Broome

A useful short introduction to ‘the monk who shook the world.’

Martin Luther's 95 Theses
S.J.Nichols (ed)

A valuable insight into the spark that ignited the Reformation.

Zwingli & Calvin (The Reformers Series)
by John Broome

A useful, brief introduction to these major leaders of the European Reformation.

God's Outlaw
by Brian Edwards

The breathtaking adventure of William Tyndale who, during the English Reformation, defied the king and the pope to give us the supreme gift of the Bible in English. See also the video and DVD of the same title.

William Tyndale: A Biography
by David Daniell

A biography which also discusses the profound religious, literary, intellectual and social implications of Tyndale’s immense achievement.

William Tyndale
by John Broome

A short and informative account of the life and work of the great Bible translator.
(Tyndale’s Old & New Testaments: See ‘Bible’ section)

The Stripping of the Altars
by E. Duffy

A major contribution to the Reformation debate. Movingly written and splendidly illustrated.

Thomas Cranmer
by D. MacCulloch

A monumental, definitive, prize-winning biography of the architect of the Anglican Book of Common Prayer who guided England through the early Reformation.

Thomas Cranmer
by John Broome

The intriguing, and moving, story of the Archbishop at the heart of the English Reformation who gave England a Prayer Book and was burnt as a heretic.

The Reformation
by Chadwick, Owen

Professor Chadwick deals with the formative work of Erasmus, Luther, Zwingli and Calvin and analyses the special circumstances of the English Reformation as well as the Jesuits and the Counter-Reformation.
A classic from the Penguin History of the Church.

18th & 19th Centuries

John Wesley
by S.Tomkins

A new and accessible biography to mark the tricentenary of his birth. Written with verve and a light, sure touch.

The Journal of John Wesley
by Christopher Idle

A highly acclaimed selection from Wesley’s own account of his life and travels in eighteenth century Britain and America.

Faithful Witness
by Timothy George

The story of William Carey’s extraordinary achievements as the first missionary to India. In the face of severe opposition, betrayal and personal tragedy, Carey pursued a path that was to lead him to become the Father of Modern Missions. Illustrated with scenes from the film ‘A Candle in the Dark’.

20th Century

Oscar Romero
by M.L. Vigil

The vivid and moving story of an archbishop whose courage cost him his life and who has become a symbol of the Catholic Church’s commitment to the search for social justice.

The Cambridge Companion to Dietrich Bonhoeffer
by J. de Gruchy (ed)

The thoughts and legacy of the great German theologian, whose important legacy lives on.

Under his very Windows
by S. Zuccotti

A meticulously researched and balanced book exploring Pope Pius XII’s role in aiding Jews during World War II. Zuccotti’s conclusion is that the Pope and his Vatican assistants did very little.

Gandhi: A very short introduction
by Bhikhu Parekh

An authoritative introduction to the life and influence of Mohandas Gandhi and his fight for justice on moral, religious, political and economic fronts. His strategy of non-violent opposition to unjust laws forms the core of contemporary protest movements. Suitable for wide general readership.

Faith In Action

Free at Last
by R.J.Owen

A moving account of Martin Luther King’s part in the campaign for Civil Rights in the USA.
see We Shall Not Be Moved' - Faith In Action (Video Section)

In the Streets of Calcutta
by Audrey Constant

The story of Mother Teresa and her work among the destitute and dying in Calcutta.
see 'Mother Teresa: Woman of Compassion' and 'Mother Teresa and her World' - Faith In Action (Video Section)

A Modern Martyr
by Liam Gearon

The story of how and why Archbishop Oscar Romero risked his life by speaking out for the rights and just treatment of the poor in El Salvador.

Man of Peace
by Audrey Constant

The life of Mahatma Gandhi and his non-violent struggle for justice and freedom.

Exiled Leader
The childhood of the 14th Dalai Lama, his escape from Lhasa after the Chilece invasion of Tibet and his role as national leader of the Tibetan Buddhists both before and after his enforced exile in India.

A Noble Life
The story of Aung San Suu Kyi and how she put her Buddhist principles into practice in her courageous struggle for democracy and human rights in Burma.

Changing the Face of Death
by Shirley du Boulay

The life and work of Dame Cicely Saunders, founder of the modern hospice movement.

City of Darkness
by Geoffrey Hanks

How Jackie Pullinger, a young English girl, dedicated herself to helping drug addicts living in the walled city - the worst slums in Hong Kong. See also: 'The Law of Love' - Faith In Action Video Section.

A Pilgrimage of Trust
Describing how Brother Roger founded a non-denominational Christian community at Taize, a place of peace and retreat in today's turbulent world.

God of Surprises
by Andrew Ahmed and Vanessa Gray

The life of Desmond Tutu and his non-violent struggle against apartheid in South Africa.

A Life for a Life?
Visiting a murderer on death row, led Sister Helen Prejean to campaign against the death penalty and also to help victims' families to rebuild their lives.

This book raises issues on both sides of the debate about capital punishment and will be particularly useful for exploring this controversial subject at KS3 and KS4.

Following St Peter
Describing how Karol Wojtyla survived both the Nazi occupation of Poland and Communist attempts to suppress religion, to become Pope John Paul II and an influential figure throughout the world.

Friend of Drug Addicts
The story of David Wilkerson and his work among the street gangs and young addicts of New York. This edition is in black & white. (See 'The Cross & the Switchblade' video.)

The Gangster who Cried
by R.J.Owen

The story of Nicky Cruz, a teenage gang leader in New York who after coming into contact with David Wilkerson turned to faith in Christ. see 'The Cross and the Switchblade' - Faith In Action (Video Section)

Ethics & Contemporary Issues

The Cambridge Companion to Christian Ethics
R. Gill (ed)

A comprehensive introduction to Christian Ethics which is both authoritative and up to date. ‘A standard text for the serious study of Christian Ethics.’ (Religious Studies Review).

Issues of Life & Death
by Michael Wilcockson

Ethical issues in applied ethics, including suicide, euthanasia, abortion, war, capital punishment, medical ethics and the sanctity of life. Very useful for A and AS Religious Studies, Philosophy and Ethics.

Morality and Contemporary Warfare
by James Johnson

When is military force morally justified? This timely book refocuses the moral analysis of war on the real problems of contemporary armed conflicts and analyses specific problems posed by warfare today.

The Just War Revisited
by Oliver O’Donovan

Political Theologian Oliver O’Donovan takes a fresh look at some of the traditional moral arguments about war. He re-examines questions of contemporary urgency including the use of biological and nuclear weapons, economic sanctions, military intervention, war crimes trials and the United Nations.

Does Marriage Matter?
by Rebecca O’Neill

There is a growing consensus among scholars that marriage is important. In an easily accessible style, this report summarises a large body of research for all those interested in marriage and the family.

Thinking through Religion
by Chris Wright

A series of books that are ideal for AQA Religious Studies Specification B Full and Short Course GCSE. Written by Chris Wright and published by Oxford University Press at £10.99 each.

• God and Morality - Introducing and developing these key concepts.
• Beliefs, Questions and Issues - Key beliefs, Ultimate Questions, Life Issues.
• Faith and Ethics - Worship, Relationships, Rights and Responsibilities.
• Truth and Spirituality - Nature and Expression, Religious Responses to Contemporary Issues.

Philosophy & Theology

Belief in God in an age of Science
by L. Polkinghorne

Physicist and theologian, John Polkinghorne contends that scientific and theological inquiries are ‘intellectual cousins’, both concerned with interpreted experience and the quest for truth
about reality.

Freud and Freudians on Religion
D. Capps (ed)

Selections from Freud’s writings on religion and from the work of five other recent contributors to the psychoanalytic study of religion.

The History of Christian Thought
by Jonathan Hill

An introduction to the thinkers who have shaped Christian history and the culture of much of the world. An enlightening journey from the early church to the present day. It includes such key Christian thinkers as Irenaeus, Augustine, Aquinas, Luther and Wesley.

Bitesize Theology
by P. Jeffery

An ABC of the Christian faith.

Does God believe in Atheists?
by John Blanchard

An award-winning, brilliant defence of belief in God.
Video also available: see 'Philosophy & Theology' (Video Section)

Ultimate Questions
by John Blanchard

Life is full of questions, but the ultimate ones are about God. Does he exist? What is he like? Can I know him? If so, how?

World Religions & Denominations

Buddhism: A very short Introduction
by Damien Keown

‘A readable and wonderfully lucid introduction to one of mankind’s most beautiful ......systems of wisdom.’

Buddhism (Eyewitness Guide)
Perfect for school projects. Superbly illustrated with photographs from the natural world, specialist museums and private collections. Age 8+

An Introduction to Buddhism
by Peter Harvey

Teachings, history and practices.

Anglican Identities
by Rowan Williams

A collection of writings on aspects of Anglicanism and Anglican History by the Archbishop of Canterbury.

Christianity and the Religions
by J. Dupuis

Is it possible to say that Jesus is ‘the way, the truth and the life’ and also acknowledge that other faiths can offer roads to salvation? Jacques Dupuis outlines a new model for approaching inter-religious dialogue.

Christianity (Eyewitness Guide)
An exciting and informative guide to Christian life, beliefs and culture. Beautiful artefacts, manuscripts and photographs combine to tell the story of the Christian Churches and their influence around the world, providing a revealing account of Christianity. Age 6+

Christianity (Lion Access Guide)
by Michael Keene

A clear, informative guide to Christianity; origins, history, beliefs, worship, contemporary concerns and worldwide impact. Suitable for the general reader, family reference, students and teachers of RE at KS4/5.

Festivals of the Christian Year
by Lois Rock

An excellent practical supplement to information books on festivals. Filled with good ideas. For 7-11 year olds.

An Introduction to the Christian Orthodox Churches
by John Binns

An immensely readable and popular introduction to the oldest of the Christian denominations from the accession of the Emperor Constantine in 312 up to the year 2000.

Hinduism: A very short introduction
by Kim Knott

An ‘instantly accessible and enjoyable’ introduction to Hinduism.

An Introduction to Hinduism
by Gavin Flood

A thematic and historical introduction to Hinduism suitable for both the student and general reader. The development of Hindu traditions from their ancient origins, through the major deities to the modern world.

Meeting God: Elements of Hindu Devotion
by S. Huyler

A beautiful book introducing the religion embraced by one-sixth of the world’s people.

Bhagavad Gita
by W.J. Johnson (Tr)

The best known and most widely read Hindu religious text. An ideal translation for the student and non-specialist alike.

Islam: A very short Introduction
by Ruthven, Malise

Insights into the structure and beliefs of this major world religion. For students and those interested in comparative religion, international relations and Asian history.

Islam, a brief History
by Paul Lunde

Superbly illustrated survey of one of the world’s great religions, written by a leading expert on Islamic history and culture. An enlightening introduction to this rich and complex faith.

Islam: A Thousand Years of Faith
by Jonathan Bloom and Sheila Blair

An engrossing, accessible book exploring the first millennium of Islamic culture and enlightening readers about the events and achievements that have shaped contemporary Islamic civilisation.

Islam (Eyewitness Guide)
by Philip Wilkinson

Beautiful manuscripts and contemporary photographs together with a clear account of the spread of Islam across several continents, combine to present a dramatic eyewitness view of this complex religion.

The Formation of Islam
by J. Berkey

The religious history of the peoples of the Near East from about 600-1800 CE. Close attention is also given to the experiences of Jews and Christians as well as Muslims.

The Koran
N.J. Dawood (Tr)

A new translation of the holy book of Islam.

An Introduction to Judaism
by Nicholas de Lange

A lucid account of Judaism and Jewish people for teachers, students and general readers. This book brings out the extraordinary richness of Judaism. ‘Written with clarity and in a very pleasing style.’

Judaism (Eyewitness Guide)
Explore the history, faith and traditions of the Jewish people in this stunning guide to Judaism, past and present. Age 8+

Judaism: A very short Introduction
by Norman Solomon

An ideal and succinct introduction to Judaism as a religion and way of life. Basics of practical Judaism: its festivals, prayers, customs and sects. For students and anyone interested in Judaism.

World Religions
by David Self

An accessible and reliable guide to the beliefs and practices of Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism and Sikhism. A text for the ‘Common Entrance’ RE exam, it is richly illustrated and suitable for all 8-13 year olds.

World Religions (Lion Access Guide)
by Michael Keene

Answers key questions about Hinduism, Judaism, Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, Sikhism and many others. Lively, colourful style and innovative design.

Religion (Eyewitness Guide)
by Myrtle Langley

A revealing and enlightening guide to the religions of the world. Superb colour photographs give an insight into the beliefs of different religions and into the lives of their founders and
followers. Age 8+

Creation & Evolution

Evolution: Fact or Fiction?
by John Blanchard

What is the evidence for evolution? Can we prove life began that way? Has archaeology found obvious links between species? Are we the result of random, genetic changes? Or is there another explanation?

Wonderfully Made
by Monty White

An explanation of human origins.

In the beginning, God Created....
by J. Peet

An examination of the Biblical record on origins.

Darwin: A very short Introduction
by Jonathan Howard

Arguments still rage about Darwin’s evolutionary theory. In this analysis of his major arguments, Howard reasserts the importance of Darwin’s work for the development of modern biology.

Evolution: A very short Introduction
by Brian Charlesworth

The role of evolutionary biology in shaping views on human origins, and the impact of this idea on traditional philosophy and religion.

Darwin : The Origin of Species
Written for the general reder, in a style which combines the rigour of science with the subtlety of literature, The Origin of Species remains one of the founding documents of the modern age.

392pp

Religion & The Arts

Jesus Through Art
by Margaret Cooling

12 units, each containing two large colour art reproductions, 48 photocopiable worksheets, teachers’ notes, information on the paintings and their artists, related Bible stories plus aims and objectives for RE. An excellent, imaginative and thoroughly recommended resource with lots of potential for Years 5-9 (Ages 9-14).

A Journey into Christian Art
by Helen de Borchgrave

A lavishly illustrated tour of Christian art through two millennia. We visit churches and museums and see how the fusion of Christianity and art has produced sublime paintings and sculptures in a rich variety of styles.

Jesus through the Centuries
by Jaroslav Pelikan

How the image of Christ created by each successive epoch is a key to understanding the temper and values of that age.

Painting the Word
by John Drury

A beautifully written book in which the author applies his knowledge and experience to Christian paintings, presenting afresh their universal quality, passion, story and meaning.

The Image of Christ
by G. Finaldi (ed)

Produced to accompany the National Gallery exhibition: Seeing Salvation, this book reveals how the challenge of representing Christ has been confronted through the ages, how artists have portrayed someone who is both God and Man, human and divine, mortal and immortal.

Angels
by E. Langmuir

In this beautifully illustrated pocket guide, the author explains the surprisingly complicated history of angels in Western Art.

Saints
by E. Langmuir

Through the National Gallery’s comprehensive collection of religious paintings, the author explains the importance of saints and their role in the history of European painting. Beautifully illustrated.

The Story of Christian Music
by Andrew Wilson-Dickson

An illustrated guide to all the major traditions of music in worship from Gregorian Chant to Black Gospel.

All Things Weird and Wonderful
by Stewart Henderson

Performance poet and Radio 4 presenter, Stewart Henderson, looks at creation in its broadest sense, often from the perspective of a child. Ranging from quirky and thought-provoking to highly entertaining, readers will want to return to these poems
time and again. For 7-11 year olds.