Grenville Media Product Catalogue
- RELIGIOUS STUDIES - DVDs & VIDEOS
-- The Bible & Biblical Archaeology
-- Old Testament
-- New Testament
-- Reformation
-- Biographical
-- Mother Teresa + M.L-King
-- Faith In Action
-- Ethics + Moral Issues
-- Evolution
-- Religions & Denominations
-- Family Viewing
-- Philosophy
- GEOGRAPHY - DVDs
-- General Catalogue
-- BBC Programmes
-- World Resources + Global Warming
-- Weather
-- Tropical Rainforest
- HISTORY - DVDs
-- World War 1
-- World War 2
-- Holocaust
-- 20th Century
-- 19th Century
-- 18th Century
-- 17th Century
-- 16th Century
-- 15th Century
-- The Middle Ages
-- The Normans
-- The Dark Ages
-- The Romans
-- Greeks & Egyptians
-- Ireland
-- Africa
- ENGLISH - DVDs
-- Shakespeare Plays
-- About Shakespeare
-- Plays
-- Jane Austen / Bronte Sisters
-- Elizabeth Gaskell
-- Charles Dickens
-- Thomas Hardy
-- D.H.Lawrence
-- E.M.Forster
-- English Novels (General)
-- Other Novels
-- Children's Literature
-- Miscellaneous
-- Poetry
- BOOKS for R.E.
-- The Bible
-- Bible Stories
-- Jesus & The Early Church
-- Christian History (General)
-- The Middle Ages
-- Reformation
-- 18th & 19th Centuries
-- 20th Century
-- Faith In Action
-- Ethics & Contemporary Issues
-- Philosophy & Theology
-- World Religions & Denominations
-- Creation & Evolution
-- Religion & The Arts
- CHRISTIAN HISTORY MAGAZINE
-- Christian History Magazines
DISCOVERING THE BIBLE
Award-winning introduction to the Bible for those with little or no background, and a refresher for those keen to know its sources and how it was handed down.
The videos include:
• Getting Acquainted - the unique nature of the Bible, how it came to be written and what it comprises.
• The Old Testament - its amazing development and organisation. The Dead Sea Scrolls and how the Scribes accurately preserved the text over the centuries.
• The New Testament - its relationship with the Old, why and how it came to be written and how the Canon was formed.
• Survival, Spread and Influence - How was it taught in the Middle Ages? What impact has it had over the centuries?
4 x half-hour programmes with full-colour 32-page brochure, leader’s guide and worksheets in pdf format as well as in printed form.
THE MAKING OF THE KING JAMES BIBLE
The year 2011 marks the 400th anniversary of the creation of the King James Bible, arguably the greatest piece of English Literature ever produced.
This DVD takes us to the heart of the translation process through specific passage examples. While exploring the varying viewpoints of the different scholars, we get a firsthand look at the immense attention to detail they used.
See also:
God's Outlaw : The Story of William Tyndale and John Wycliffe: The Morning Star.
THE LINDISFARNE GOSPELS
From the origins of the manuscript through to its current pride of place on display at the new British Library in London. Created over 1300 years ago this illuminated manuscript is one of Britain's greatest artistic treasures — and remains an outstanding example of Anglo-Saxon book painting of the late seventh century.
The programme explores the artistic creation, spiritual nature and regional identity of the Lindisfarne Gospels, asking why and how the book was produced and has survived to this day.
With stunning imagery drawn from key places associated with the book's story from Holy Island to Chester-Le-Street, Castle Auckland and Durham. When the monks of Holy Island fled to the main land due to persistent Viking raids, the Gospels travelled with them. For hundreds of years the book journeyed across Northumbria and Cumbria before finding a resting place at Durham Cathedral.
Beautiful and intriguing.
The NIV BIBLE on AUDIO CASSETTE
Well-known British actors add drama and excitement to their readings of key books of the Bible, each on a double cassette.
Key books come on 2 cassette set at £9.99
Old Testament (abridged) Boxed Set (20 cassettes) at £49.95
THE ENIGMA OF THE DEAD SEA SCROLLS
An examination of key issues related to the Dead Sea Scrolls, widely regarded as the most significant archeological discovery of the 20th century.
There remains much mystery and intrigue as scholars and administrators have fought over access to the materials.
This programme investigates the scrolls, controversies, key players, and contributions to our understanding of the ancient world and the Bible.
SOLOMON'S TEMPLE
A basic introduction to the colossal achievement of Solomon’s Temple with details of its design, construction and meaning for Israel - plus what went on there and why.
Solomon’s Temple was destroyed in 586 B.C. but based on the Biblical record and through the use of modern computer graphics, the Temple is reconstructed visually to provide a contemporary experience of its ritual, beauty and grandeur.
THE TABERNACLE
An intriguing walk through the ancient Tabernacle. This meeting place between sinful man and Holy God is seen in stunning three-dimensional computer-generated detail.
See the stark contrast between the bronze covered altar with its implications of death, and the exquisite gold lampstand, showing the way to life and forgiveness.
Hard-to-visualise passages of Scripture come to life in this fascinating video. The Table of Shewbread, the Altar of Incense, even the Ark of the Covenant, will no longer be shrouded in such mystery but take on meaningful form as a result of this extraordinary presentation.
REFLECTIONS ON PSALM 23
A personal journey - sub-titled 'For People with Cancer' - presented by Rev Dr Ken Curtis who was diagnosed with cancer with little prospect for survival.
He pursued a combination of traditional and alternative medicine, undergirded by a strong spiritual dimension and prayer support team.
Psalm 23 played a vital part of his personal journey. He went to Israel to be with the shepherds, travel through 'the valley of the shadow of death' and explore and enjoy the healing powers of the green pastures and still waters.
The resulting meditations provide a combination of candid personal experience of what it means to battle cancer and some of the spiritual resources available through this time-honoured Psalm.
The DVD contains 13 segments each of 8 minutes in length which are ideal for either personal or group study and reflection.
A deeply moving and inspiring presentation which is very highly recommended.
See also: Reflections on the Beatitudes and Reflections on the Lord's Prayer, also by Dr Curtis.
JACOB
The conflict between two of the most famous biblical brothers, Jacob and Esau, as they fight for their father's affection and inheritance.
Jacob flees and shelters with his scheming uncle Laban. There, he falls in love with the beautiful Rachel whose love he strives to win against the deceit and cruelty of his uncle.
This legendary Old Testament story of brotherly envy and loathing is brilliantly brought to life under the direction of Sir Peter Hall and stars Matthew Modine, Sean Bean, Joss Ackland and Lara Flyn Boyle.
JOSEPH: KING OF DREAMS
An inspiring adventure for all ages. Cast off by jealous brothers, Joseph rises to honour in Egypt before a sudden twist of fate reunites him with the very brothers who betrayed him.
This DVD also includes (optional) Spanish and French soundtracks.
THE PRINCE OF EGYPT
The story of Moses. A powerful epic adventure of two brothers - one born to rule, the other chosen to lead. With the voices of an all-star cast, a brilliantly animated masterpiece.
This DVD also has optional German and Dutch soundtracks.
DANIEL
David and three friends are taken into captivity in Babylon. There, they serve the king well and gain positions of responsibility. But Daniel's enemies plan a trap to have him killed. When he survives being thrown into the lion's den, however, he is able to demonstrate the power of the true God.
Suitable for Key Stages 2 & 3.
Exempt from Classification.
This item is currently out of stock. Please enquire for further information.
REFLECTIONS ON THE BEATITUDES
A personal journey - sub-titled 'For People with Cancer' - presented by Rev Dr Ken Curtis who was diagnosed with cancer with little prospect for survival.
In this series of short reflections, beautifully filmed in the Holy Land, Ken explores the richness and depth of the Beatitudes and challenges us to find blessedness out of our brokenness, a most difficult task for those with cancer or any other life trauma.
Along the way he shares his own journey in dealing with advanced cancer, including the process of sorting through various treatment options which often went far beyond the traditional methods recommended by doctors.
The DVD contains ten segments each of 8-10 minutes in length which are ideal for either personal or group study and reflection.
A deeply moving and inspiring presentation which is very highly recommended.
See also: Reflections on Psalm 23 and Reflections on The Lord's Prayer also by Dr Curtis.
REFLECTIONS ON THE LORD'S PRAYER
This series of meditations on The Lord's Prayer with Ken Curtis follows his previous series, Reflections on Psalm 23 for People with Cancer.
Ken was diagnosed with advanced cancer with little prospect for survival. He followed a combination of traditional and alternative medicine, undergirded by a strong spiritual dimension and prayer support team.
While made particularly for people facing the crisis of cancer, the reflections are relevant for any health crisis.
Join Ken on this journey into the world of The Lord's Prayer from original locations important in the life of Jesus. The Lord's Prayer is not just a way of praying. It's a way of "seeing."
When the prayer is grasped and uttered from the heart, it can -- and will --change us. We realize how we are not alone, no matter how difficult or seemingly hopeless our situation. Even in our pain, there can come a joy and a feeling of rightness about our world.
This DVD contains ten 8-minute segments and is ideal for private or group study and reflection.
Highly recommended.
See also Reflections on Psalm 23 and Reflections on The Beatitudes also by Dr Curtis.
MARY MOTHER OF JESUS
The worlds greatest story seen through the eyes of Mary as she watches her infant son grow into manhood.
Gabriel visits the 16-yr old Mary with extraordinary news. Jesus is born in Bethlehem and so begins a touching story of love, sacrifice and inspirational faith. A real mother's concern for a son who knows that he must suffer a cruel death to save mankind.
Starring Christian Bale, Pernilla August and Geraldine Chaplin.
Certificate PG.
BETHLEHEM YEAR ZERO
An innovative presentation of the Christmas story.
In six 15-minute bulletins, newscaster Martyn Lewis presents the events of 2000 years ago as breaking news today. Based on the best available sources and research, political analysts and correspondents reporting 'live' from the scene unfold the dramatic events in the accustomed style of television news bulletins.
This enlightening presentation encourages greater understanding and appreciation of the world into which Jesus was born and the extraordinary circumstances of his birth.
A mould-breaking way to present the Christmas story offering many possibilities for further thought and extension work.
Ideal for secondary level and adult audiences.
See also:
DATELINE JERUSALEM
A similar style presentation of the Easter story.
PARABLES OF JESUS
Seven short dramas portraying the parables of Jesus through the lens of Bible times. They are stories that never grow old, showing the customs and culture behind the parables, and the impact of Jesus' message.
The Good Samaritan
The Unmerciful Servant
The Treasure and the Pearl
The Lost Son
The Midnight Visitor
The Dinner
The Manager
THE JESUS QUEST
Previously released under the title THE STORY OF JESUS FOR CHILDREN, this is an adapted version of the JESUS film as seen through the eyes of 1st-century children. Useful for Primary school classes, Sunday School and family viewing. A firm favourite.
JESUS
Based on the Gospel of Luke and filmed in the Holy Land, this is arguably the most authentic - and most watched - film of the life of Jesus. An inspiring film.
The DVD version also has Spanish, Portuguese, French, German, Dutch, Italian and Greek soundtracks.
Certificate PG
THE STORY OF JESUS FOR CHILDREN
An adapted version of the 'JESUS' film as seen through the eyes of 1st-century children. Useful for Primary classes, Sunday Schools and family viewing. A firm favourite.
This video has now been renamed as THE JESUS QUEST.
THE MIRACLE MAKER
This brilliantly animated feature from BBC/S4C brings rich detail and realism to the story of the life of Jesus. A family seeking help for their sick daughter cross paths with Jesus. Against a crisis of faith, an extraordinary event occurs as the true identity of Jesus is revealed.
JESUS OF NAZARETH
Robert Powell leads a star-studded cast, directed by Franco Zeffirelli, in this widely acclaimed dramatisation of the life of Jesus.
We offer two versions of this celebrated production. Choose either the full (383 min) series or the edited (270 min) version.
JESUS THE NEW WAY
Bishop Tom Wright uncovers fascinating backgrounds from the first-century, showing how Jesus was indeed a ‘new way’. He shows him as the fulfilment of Israel’s ancient hopes and humanity’s dreams. The six half-hour programmes are:
• Getting the Kingdom started - Into what kind of world was Jesus born? What do we learn from the Dead Sea Scrolls and John the Baptist?
• Startling Surprises - How did Jesus’ kingdom parallel the expectations of the Jewish people? Why was Jesus’ news shocking and offensive?
• Longing for a King - In the Jewish world, how did Jesus redefine what the Messiah should be?
• Why did Jesus die? - What was the real and great battle being fought? How did Jesus understand and undertake his role?
• Who was Jesus? - How did he understand himself? How did the early church view him? Was he divine?
• The New Claim - Was Jesus really raised from the dead? What did the resurrection mean to first century Jews? How does it impact on our lives today?
6 x half-hour programmes with leader’s guide, worksheets and scripts
SO WHO IS THIS JESUS?
With Russell Boulter. The facts behind a man who lived 2000 years ago yet radically changes people’s lives today. Filmed in Israel.
THE LAST SUPPER
Filmed and dramatised in authentic locations in the Holy Land, this film emphasises both Christian tradition and Jewish roots as it examines the exotic Biblical courses served at the traditional Passover meal. An 18-page recipe book is included.
A useful video for anyone exploring the background to Easter as well as the roots of the Holy Communion.
DATELINE JERUSALEM
Martyn Lewis presents the Easter story as a series of eight x 15-minute news bulletins with 'live' reports from correspondents at the scene. An informative and innovative format which appeals to a wide audience. This short series lends itself both to secondary school RE classes and also to church study groups.
See also:
BETHLEHEM YEAR ZERO
A similar style presentation of the Christmas story.
THE PASSION OF THE CHRIST
The profound story of courage and sacrifice, depicting the final twelve hours in the life of Jesus Christ.
This highly acclaimed - yet controversial - film by Mel Gibson uses the original languages of Aramaic, Latin and Hebrew with English subtitles.
Certificate 18 - not suitable for younger viewers.
PETER & PAUL - and the Christian Revolution
The might of the Roman Empire and the dangerous politics of ancient Jerusalem placed a heavy burden on those who believed in Jesus. But the new faith would not die. In a brief span of time, this new religion would transcend its origins in the provinces of Rome and absorb the capital of the empire itself.
Peter & Paul and the Christian Revolution explores how two men overcame crippling disagreements and political persecution to lead one of history's most astonishing religious movements.
2 x 55 minute episodes from the Empires series.
EPISODE 1:
The Rock and the River
Peter and Paul encounter the risen Christ on the shores of Galilee and the road to Damascus respectively. For the fledgling religion, these are turning points and the good news spreads around the Empire.
EPISODE 2:
The Empire and the Kingdom
Paul falls into disagreement with some of the oldest members of the movement and, despite Peter's attempt at mediation, goes his own way. Then, in 70 AD, Judea revolts against Rome. Much of Jerusalem is destroyed and the people are once again enslaved. Judea can no longer support a Jewish Christian movement, but Paul's communities around the Mediterranean survive and grow.
Please direct trade orders to CLC Wholesale.
PAUL THE EMISSARY
Experience the energy and outlook of the Apostle as we witness his turbulent emotion, unwavering convictions and vision for a new kind of world.
The DVD version includes Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Hebrew and Arabic soundtracks.
See also the video: Paul - Apostle of Grace (V117) plus the edition of Christian History Magazine on St Paul. Books worth seeing include Paul: A Very Short Introduction (B034) and The Cambridge Companion to St Paul (B035).
PAUL: APOSTLE OF GRACE
Following in the footsteps of the Apostle whose teaching rocked the Roman Empire, we are guided through Paul’s message of grace in Jesus Christ. Filmed in some of the cities of the Roman Empire where Paul’s message took root.
An engaging and conveniently presented video in three distinct 'chapters' making it ideal for use either in one showing or spread over three sessions.
Recommended for 'A' Level students, Church study groups or private use.
See also the video: Paul the Emissary (V115 + D107) plus the edition of Christian History Magazine on St Paul.
Recommended books include Paul: A Very Short Introduction (B034) and The Cambridge Companion to St Paul (B035).
The MIRACLES OF JESUS
An animated selection of Jesus' miracles: healing the sick, raising the dead, casting out demons and calming the storm - all attributed to the principle of faith.
Suitable for all ages - but particularly for younger viewers.
Exempt from Classification.
JOHN THE BAPTIST
The animated story of John the Baptist for younger children.
THE MESSIAH COMES
The animated story of how the Jews expected a Messiah and how Jesus fulfilled that role.
Suitable for KS2 and KS3.
Exempt from Classification.
THE TRIAL AND TESTIMONY OF THE EARLY CHURCH
The first three centuries were decisive for Christianity. The very existence of the Church itself was threatened by powerful opponents who wanted to destroy it. Shot in the original locations, the programmes include:
• Foundations - How did it all begin? What happened to the 12 Apostles?
• Spread - How did they take their message to the world?
• Accusations - Believers were subject to many charges. How did they answer them?
• Persecutions - The most powerful empire persecuted them. What happened - and why?
• Testimony - Heroes who paid with their lives.
• Transition - Constantine granted legality to the church. A bane or a blessing? Why did the church succeed?
6 x half-hour programmes with full-colour companion book, leader’s guide, scripts and worksheets.
THE HISTORY OF CHRISTIANITY
An overview of the dramatic unfolding of the Christian church, presented by Dr Timothy George, Dean of Samford University Divinity School.
• The Early Church - its emergence from the womb of Judaism, through terrible persecution, to acceptance in the Roman world.
• The Church in the Middle Ages - universities, monasteries and museums were established. Interaction with a growing culture came alongside barbarian invasion, Crusades and the Muslim challenge.
• The Reformation - An age of discovery, great Papal power and widespread corruption. Cries for reform brought spiritual and ecclesiastical renewal.
• The Age of Reason and Piety - from the death of Luther to the conversion of John Wesley, we see a shift from ‘an age of faith’ to ‘an age of reason’.
• Christianity and the New World - a land of new beginnings, the emergence of Quakers and Puritans and a Great Awakening.
• An Age of Uncertainty - between the fall of the Bastille and the fall of the Berlin Wall, the Church moves into an uncertain world.
6 x half-hour programmes. Scripts, 48-page leader’s guide and a reproducible student workbook are all included in PDF format on the DVD.
MARTIN LUTHER - (EMPIRES SERIES)
Starring Timothy West and narrated by Liam Neeson, this is a superb introduction to the obscure German monk who changed the world forever. Offering a new vision of man's relationship with God, he shook the very foundations of an empire that had endured for a thousand years.
Filmed across Europe - from rustic Germany to the opulence of Vatican City - Martin Luther is the dramatic story of the collapse of the medieval world and the birth of the modern age, in 2x55-minute episodes.
Episode 1: Driven to Defiance.
Caught in a thunderstorm and terrified at the thought of death, Luther vows to become a monk. In Rome, however, he finds the Vatican swamped in corruption but finds release in the Bible, discovering that it is not the Church, but his own faith that will guarantee salvation. Launching an attack on the Church, he puts himself on a collision course with the most powerful institution of his day.
Episode 2: The Reluctant Revolutionary.
The Catholic Church uses all its might to silence their troublesome monk. Using the newly invented printing press, Luther's teaching inspires revolution across Europe but as the Reformation develops into a movement for social freedom, Luther is unable to control the forces his ideas helped unleash.
Please direct trade orders to CLC Wholesale.
HERE I STAND
THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF MARTIN LUTHER
Luther never sought to be a revolutionary. He was more concerned to save his own soul. But in his quest for salvation he rediscovered foundations of Biblical Christianity that shook the late medieval world and challenged its assumptions about religious authority, what God was like, how we are to approach him and how God saves us.
This detailed 2-part documentary helps us to understand Luther: what motivated him, the turning points of his life, the issues he confronted, the opposition that sought to defeat him and the profound changes brought about under his leadership and ministry.
With convenient chapter titles for easy access - plus an additional bonus feature 'In the Footsteps of Martin Luther' - this DVD is a comprehensive and authoritative resource. It is recommended for all who want to study seriously the catalyst for the Reformation from a Protestant perspective.
NEW RELEASE
MARTIN LUTHER
A re-release of the classic award-winning B&W feature film tracing Luther’s life from guilt-burdened monk to his eventual break with the Roman Church. A celebrated film introduction to the man who defied the Pope and changed the face of Christendom forever.
This DVD of this classic film includes Spanish, Portuguese, German and Korean soundtracks.
GOD'S OUTLAW - The story of William Tyndale
John Wycliffe first translated the Scriptures into English in the fourteenth century from Latin. But his hand-copied Bibles were burnt by the authorities. A hundred and fifty years later, William Tyndale set out to give the Bible to ordinary folk in the common tongue - this time, from the original Greek and Hebrew.
But this was illegal and he fled to Europe pursued by agents of Henry VIII. Nevertheless, his translation was mass-produced on the newly invented printing presses and smuggled into England. Eventually, betrayed by a friend, he was arrested, tried and executed. His eloquent translation was a priceless gift to all English speaking peoples and a fitting memorial to his courage and genius.
An award-winning dramatic film with a distinguished cast led by Roger Rees as William Tyndale, Keith Baron as Henry VIII, Oona Kirsch as Anne Boleyn, Willoughby Goddard as Cardinal Wolsey and Bernard Archard as Sir Thomas More.
A Grenville production with Channel Four, directed by Tony Tew.
'A gripping tale, beautifully told' (Daily Mail)
A 26-minute version is available with an introduction and links by Dr Ken Curtis of the Christian History Institute.
See also the book of the same title by Brian Edwards (B055), the Tyndale edition of Christian History Magazine (M009) and Tyndale's Old and New Testaments from Yale University Press (B013 / B014 / B141).
See also D165 : 'Torchlighters - The William Tyndale Story'.
THE WORDSMITHS
The story of how the Bible came to be in the English language is dramatically told in two of our multi award-winning films - 'JOHN WYCLIFFE - The Morning Star' and 'GOD'S OUTLAW - The Story of William Tyndale'. Produced by Grenville Films, Directed by Tony Tew and shown on Channel Four Television, they are described elsewhere.
Buy both together and save £6.99 plus we will also send you a free copy of Brian Edwards' book 'God's Outlaw' * - a total saving of £14.94
(*Please note that the free books are very slightly shop-soiled, but otherwise in good condition.)
TORCHLIGHTERS: WILLIAM TYNDALE
During the reign of Henry VIII, it was illegal to possess an English Bible - or even to recite passages from it (such as The Lord's Prayer) in English. The penalty, if caught, was death by burning.
The story of how William Tyndale risked all to produce an English Bible is told for young viewers (up to about the age of 12) in this exciting animated version of the story so convincingly told in our celebrated feature film with Channel Four 'God's Outlaw'.
For older viewers, this DVD also includes a separate interview with Professor David Daniels. Using illustrations from 'God's Outlaw', he explains the religious and political background to Tyndale's work and places his achievement in its proper context.
SEE ALSO:
GOD'S OUTLAW - D108 & V125.
ZWINGLI AND CALVIN
Award-winning programme covering the 16th Century Swiss Reformation, its key centres of Zurich and Geneva, and the tumultuous lives of its two leaders.
THE RADICALS
Challenging the 1000 year control of the Church by the State, Michael and Margaretha Sattler flee their religious order in 1525 and set about the task of restoring the church to the purity of its early days.
They join a group called the Anabaptists but as the movement grows, so does the determination of their enemies to stop them - by whatever means is necessary.
Michael was burned at the stake and Margaretha was drowned but the movement survives to this day within the Mennonites, Brethren, Hutterites and Amish.
This DVD also includes a 30-minute documentary on the Anabaptists.
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.
REFORMATION OVERVIEW
The Reformation dramatically changed the course of Christian history and Western civilisation. In an approachable style, this series introduces key reformers and major turning points leading up to, and including, the Reformation.
The six programmes cover:
• John Wycliffe
• John Hus
• Martin Luther
• Ulrich Zwingli & John Calvin
• The Anabaptists
• William Tyndale
6 x 30 min. programmes
MOTHER TERESA: Woman of Compassion
The dramatic story of a young teenage Catholic girl, called by God to serve the poorest people of India, who inspired the world with her example of compassion and servanthood.
A valuable teaching resource which speaks of Christian love, discipleship and world poverty. Recommended for pupils at Key Stages 3,4 and above.
See also:
'Mother Teresa of Calcutta' (D173)
MOTHER TERESA OF CALCUTTA
In a powerful portrayal, Olivia Hussey illuminates the life story of Mother Teresa, the selfless missionary who brought hope, love and salvation to the poorest of the poor.
A shrewd diplomat and an indomitable force, Mother Teresa fought fearlessly for the unloved and forgotten and her small miracles and humble triumphs contribute to this poignant story of a modern-day saint.
We import the full-length tv version of this film. The cover design may differ from that illustrated and the cover notes are in Greek. The DVD, however, plays in English.
See also:
Mother Teresa: Woman of Compassion - in the Religious Studies 'Faith in Action' section.
IN THE NAME OF GOD'S POOR
A moving dramatic feature telling the story of Mother Teresa's ministry to the sick and dying in Calcutta.
We first see her as a teacher at the Loreto School and take her story as far as the award of the Nobel Peace Prize. This is a compelling story with a convincing performance by Geraldine Chaplin as Mother Teresa in which her mission to share God's love with the dying and destitute shines clearly through.
Please note that this DVD is imported from Europe. The insert to the library case is in Greek but the film itself is entirely in English.
Dr MARTIN LUTHER KING
A Historical Perspective.
The authorised biography of the celebrated leader of the 1960's Civil Rights Movement in the USA. Using rare and largely unseen film footage and photographs, this DVD explores how Dr King's ideas, beliefs and methods evolved in the face of a rapidly changing culture.
An important programme, relevant for all interested in - or studying - Civil Rights, non-violent protest and the power of the individual to effect change within a democratic society.
See also:I Have a Dream.
I HAVE A DREAM
Rare historic recordings from three celebrated speeches by Dr Martin Luther King Jnr from his civil rights campaign - plus the moving eulogy given by Senator Robert Kennedy upon receiving the news of King's assassination.
The speeches:
1) Lincoln Memorial, Washington DC - 28 August 1963
2) Brown Chapel, Selma, Alabama - 8 March 1965
3) His final speech - 3 April 1968
4) Robert F Kennedy's eulogy - 4 April 1968
NEW RELEASE
HANGED ON A TWISTED CROSS
The context, political environment and cultural issues of Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s day within Nazi Germany, provide a penetrating portrait of a man whose life and writings grow in their influence, speaking powerfully to issues of our own day. A multiple award winner.
Recommended for 'A' Level studies and beyond.
See also:
'Memories & Perspectives: The Life Story of Dietrich Bonhoeffer' (D174)
'Bonhoeffer: Agent of Grace' (D119)
MEMORIES AND PERSPECTIVES:
The life story of the theologian, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, martyred during the Nazi Third Reich, is vividly recalled by his family, friends and students.
Recommended for 'A' Level studies and beyond.
See also:
'Hanged on a Twisted Cross' (D166) - an award-winning documentary portrait of Dietrich Bonhoeffer.
'Bonhoeffer: Agent of Grace' (D119) - award-winning PBS feature length drama.
BONHOEFFER: AGENT OF GRACE
A PBS 'Special', voted 'Best Film' at the 2000 Monte Carlo TV Festival. This dramatic film is set against the background of the German Third Reich. It brings to life the heroic rebellion of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a Lutheran Minister who could have kept his peace and saved his life but instead paid the ultimate price for his beliefs.
More than just a biographical portrait, Bonhoeffer: Agent of Grace sheds light on the little-known efforts of the German resistance to the Nazis. A beautifully made and moving film, it is essential viewing for students of 20th century European history and the moral struggle against evil.
The DVD includes Spanish, Portuguese and German soundtracks.
ROMERO
The dramatic true story of Oscar Romero, the Archbishop of El Salvador, murdered in his cathedral for speaking out against a corrupt and brutal regime.
Against the torture and massacre of thousands of ordinary people, the Church agonised over the legitimacy of using violence as a means of overcoming great evil. With some priests resorting to the gun, Romero chose words as his only weapon. Over the radio and from the pulpit, he courageously opposed evil and brought hope to his listeners.
An excellent film which challenges us to consider the possible cost of discipleship today, the effectiveness of non-violent protest and the perspective of liberation theology.
Certificate 15.
ANNE FRANK
Ben Kingsley and Hannah Taylor Gordon star in the gripping drama of one of the most celebrated young women of the 20th century.
Anne Frank goes beyond the story so well known through her diaries, painting a true portrait of her both before and after she went into hiding. A deeply moving and thought-provoking experience for anyone thinking through issues of intolerance, prejudice and religious persecution.
Certificate 12
See also:
Anne Frank Remembered
THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK
The 1959 screen adaptation of one of the most moving documents to have emerged from World War II - the diary of a 13-year old Jewish girl in hiding, with her family, to escape the horrors of the Nazi holocaust. The strain and almost unbearable tension of their situation is skilfully conveyed in this poignant, triple Oscar-winning film. B&W. Certificate U.
See also:
Anne Frank
Anne Frank Remembered
THE HIDING PLACE
The gripping true story of Corrie ten Boom and her sister Betsy, imprisoned for hiding Jews during World War II. An inspiring film of love and forgiveness set against the evil of the German holocaust.
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 against de Klerk's Government and 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)
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.
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.
Highly recommended viewing for all considering the evil of racial prejudice and the nature and cost of Christian forgiveness. Also for students of GCSE or A/AS Level Religious Studies opting for a paper on Contemporary Moral Issues.
See also:
'We Shall Not be Moved' (D140)
'Mandela and De Klerk' (D303)
GOD'S OUTLAW
Wycliffe's hand-copied Bibles were burnt by the authorities and so, 150 years later, William Tyndale set out to translate the scriptures into the common tongue - this time, from the original Greek and Hebrew. But this was illegal and he fled to Europe pursued by agents of Henry VIII. Nevertheless, his translation was mass-produced on the newly invented printing presses and smuggled into England. Eventually, betrayed by a friend, he was arrested, tried and executed. His eloquent translation was a priceless gift to all English speaking peoples and a fitting memorial to his courage and genius.
An award-winning dramatic film with a distinguished cast led by Roger Rees as William Tyndale, Keith Baron as Henry VIII, Oona Kirsch as Anne Boleyn, Willoughby Goddard as Cardinal Wolsey and Bernard Archard as Sir Thomas More.
A Grenville production with Channel Four, directed by Tony Tew.
'A gripping tale, beautifully told' (Daily Mail)
Please direct trade orders to CLC Wholesale.
A 26-minute version is available with an introduction and links by Dr Ken Curtis of the Christian History Institute.
See also the book of the same title by Brian Edwards (B055), the Tyndale edition of Christian History Magazine (M009) and Tyndale's Old and New Testaments from Yale University Press (B013 / B014 / B141).
See also D165 : 'Torchlighters - The William Tyndale Story'.
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.
SHADOWLANDS
'Where is God when you really need him?'
This was the agonising cry of C.S.Lewis during his spiritual crisis after his wife died of cancer.
The grief, pain and sorrow he felt were so shattering that his Christian faith - so magnificently communicated in his many books - was now called into serious doubt.
But he picked up the pieces and moved out of the depressing 'shadowlands' realising that 'real life has not even begun yet.'
This multi award-winning production - including two BAFTA's and the International Emmy for Best Drama - stars Joss Ackland and Claire Bloom.
The DVD includes the full 90-minute BBC Television film and also a 73-minute abridged version.
MARTIN LUTHER (Empires Series)
Starring Timothy West and narrated by Liam Neeson, this is a superb introduction to the obscure German monk who changed the world forever. Offering a new vision of man's relationship with God, he shook the very foundations of an empire that had endured for a thousand years.
Filmed across Europe - from rustic Germany to the opulence of Vatican City - Martin Luther is the dramatic story of the collapse of the medieval world and the birth of the modern age, in 2x55-minute episodes.
Episode 1: Driven to Defiance.
Caught in a thunderstorm and terrified at the thought of death, Luther vows to become a monk. In Rome, however, he finds the Vatican swamped in corruption but finds release in the Bible, discovering that it is not the Church, but his own faith that will guarantee salvation. Launching an attack on the Church, he puts himself on a collision course with the most powerful institution of his day.
Episode 2: The Reluctant Revolutionary.
The Catholic Church uses all its might to silence their troublesome monk. Using the newly invented printing press, Luther's teaching inspires revolution across Europe but as the Reformation develops into a movement for social freedom, Luther is unable to control the forces his ideas helped unleash.
Please direct trade orders to CLC Wholesale.
HERE I STAND
THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF MARTIN LUTHER
Luther never sought to be a revolutionary. He was more concerned to save his own soul. But in his quest for salvation he rediscovered foundations of Biblical Christianity that shook the late medieval world and challenged its assumptions about religious authority, what God was like, how we are to approach him and how God saves us.
This detailed 2-part documentary helps us to understand Luther: what motivated him, the turning points of his life, the issues he confronted, the opposition that sought to defeat him and the profound changes brought about under his leadership and ministry.
With convenient chapter titles for easy access - plus an additional bonus feature 'In the Footsteps of Martin Luther' - this DVD is a comprehensive and authoritative resource. It is recommended for all who want to study seriously the catalyst for the Reformation from a Protestant perspective.
NEW RELEASE
MARTIN LUTHER
A re-release of the classic award-winning B&W feature film tracing Luther’s life from guilt-burdened monk to his eventual break with the Roman Church. A celebrated film introduction to the man who defied the Pope and changed the face of Christendom forever.
This DVD of this classic film includes Spanish, Portuguese, German and Korean soundtracks.
CHARIOTS OF FIRE
The Oscar-winning film telling the story of Eric Liddell and his quest for gold at the 1924 Paris Olympic Games.
On discovering that the heats for the 200-metre final were to be staged on a Sunday, he refused to run because of his religious convictions. Only when a place was generously found for him in the 200 metres did he achieve his goal.
A brilliant film about the man who only wanted to run fast for God.
Starring Ian Charleson, Ben Cross and Nigel Havers. Directed by Hugh Hudson.
Certificate U.
ERIC LIDDELL - CHAMPION OF CONVICTION
A fascinating documentary on the life of Eric Liddell, perhaps best known as an athlete in the 1924 Olympics who was depicted in the Oscar-winning film 'Chariots of Fire'.
His story is told by his daughter Patricia, his biographer David McCasland and John Keddie a consultant on 'Chariots of Fire'.
A gold medal Olympian and national hero, Eric Liddell turned his back on fame and celebrity and went to China as a missionary, also teaching Chemistry and sport.
By the early 1940's the Japanese, who were largely in control of China, began moving people into internment camps. There, he became friend and mentor to 300 children, many of whom were separated from their parents. In 1944, however, he began to suffer from a brain tumour and died the following year.
A humble man with a simple personal faith, he sought only to use his life to glorify God and his example has influenced countless numbers of people around the world.
JOHN HUS
A hundred years before Luther, John Hus’ relentless pursuit of God’s truth planted the seeds for the Reformation. Condemned as a heretic for asserting belief in the authority of Scripture, he was burned at the stake in 1415. The dramatic story of the courage and faithfulness of this forerunner of the Reformation in Europe.
This DVD also includes Spanish, Portuguese and French language versions with (or without) English sub-titles - plus a 30-minute abridged version in English and pdf study materials.
JOHN WESLEY
This old, but effective, film on the life of one of the most influential ministers in Christian history, gives an excellent introduction to the major events of Wesley’s life.
A CANDLE IN THE DARK
Filmed in some of the original Bengali locations, this beautiful, award-winning film tells the dramatic story of William Carey, an English country cobbler who founded the Baptist Missionary Society and became its first missionary to India.
Carey and his family suffered persecution and great personal trauma. Yet, with his extraordinary energy and commitment, he founded a college, championed girls' education, translated the Scriptures - in whole or in part - into thirty-five Asian languages, was largely instrumental in securing the abolition of suttee (widow burning) and sparked off a cultural renaissance that would transform the social fabric of a sub-continent.
Written and directed by Tony Tew, 'A Candle in the Dark' tells an epic story of faithfulness and triumph over adversity. It shows how a social reformation alongside an evangelical calling impacted profoundly on a culture and a country that was to become a prized jewel in the crown of empire. It is a testimony to the best traditions of Christian missions and is suitable for teenage and adult audiences.
Please direct trade orders to CLC Wholesale.
AMAZING GRACE
The inspiring story of William Wilberforce and his tireless campaign to abolish slavery in Britain.
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
HEROES FROM CHRISTIAN HISTORY
Animated stories - each about 9 minutes long - on four people who have made significant contributions to the history of Christianity over the past few centuries:
John Bunyan
David Livingstone
Mary Jones
William Wilberforce
Well illustrated and presented for 5-10 year olds.
PATRICK
The adventurous story of St Patrick in the country where he was taken as a slave. His mission lit a fire that kept western civilisation alive during the Dark Ages. This beautiful film, shot on location in Ireland and narrated by Liam Neeson, makes good viewing for all interested in Celtic Christianity and the history of Ireland.
THIS PRODUCT IS ONLY AVAILABLE IN NTSC REGION 1 FORMAT. DO NOT ORDER IF YOU DO NOT HAVE A MULTI-REGION DVD PLAYER AND MONITOR.
FRANCIS – KNIGHT OF ASSISI
St Francis, as a young man, gave up everything to embark upon the most exciting and unexpected adventure.
RELUCTANT SAINT - Francis of Assisi.
Filmed in Umbria, where St Francis lived, this film captures the drama, colour and mystery of Francis’ time, offering new insights into a life that has engaged the hearts and minds of millions over the centuries.
PLEASE NOTE:
This DVD is only available in Region 1 format - which is the standard for North America. Unless you have a multi-region DVD player, you will not be able to play this disc in the UK. Once the seals are broken on the package it cannot be exchanged or refunded.
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.
JOAN OF ARC - CHILD OF WAR - SOLDIER OF GOD
During the Hundred Years War, as the English raided the French countryside in 1425, 13-year old Joan heard voices calling her to bring peace to war-ravaged France. By 17, she had convinced the leaders to grant her an army. Fearlessly leading from the front, she regained the city of Orleans and brought about the coronation of the French heir to the throne.
Once on the throne, the king feared that her popularity would outshine his own. Abandoned and betrayed, Joan was captured by the English, tried by the church for heresy and burnt at the stake.
A few years later, she was declared innocent of the heresy for which she died. Five centuries later the Roman Catholic Church declared her a saint.
Beautifully made, and with some excellent re-enactments, this film offers valuable insight into France's greatest historical martyr.
NEW RELEASE
BERNADETTE – THE PRINCESS OF LOURDES
Bernadette, a 14-year-old girl, saw visions of the Virgin Mary in a grotto near the town of Lourdes in southern France.
A TRUBUTE TO POPE JOHN PAUL II
A documentary tribute to the life and work of Pope John Paul II.
This film takes us from his school days at an underground seminary in Nazi-occupied Poland to his years as an ethics professor at the university of Lublin and from his elevation to Pope to his achievements as head of the Roman Catholic Church.
Produced by ABC News in association with A&E Network.
Exempt from Classification.
CHINA CRY
The true story of Sung Neng Yee (Nora Lam) who was adopted into an affluent Shanghai family in 1941. When the Japanese attack, their house is seized and after the war she joins the Communist Party which she sees as China's liberator.
She marries and has three children but is victimised by Communist officials intent on breaking her bourgeois tendencies and religious leanings. She is cruelly persecuted but bargains for her husband and daughter's release to Hong Kong. In return, she is sent to a brutal labour camp. Eventually, after much agitation, she is released and reunited with her family.
A true story of love and courage set against a cruel and unbending regime. It demonstrates the resillience and dignity of the human spirit against totalitarian evil.
Gladys Aylward: Small Woman; Great God
Gladys Aylward (1902-1970) may have been small in stature at barely five feet tall, but she was a giant of conviction! Even Hollywood was amazed by her story and made a major film about her, entitled The Inn of the Sixth Happiness.
Mother Teresa of Calcutta
In a powerful portrayal, Olivia Hussey illuminates the life story of Mother Teresa, the selfless missionary who brought hope, love and salvation to the poorest of the poor.
A shrewd diplomat and an indomitable force, Mother Teresa fought fearlessly for the unloved and forgotten and her small miracles and humble triumphs contribute to this poignant story of a modern-day saint.
We import the full-length tv version of this film. The cover design may differ from that illustrated and the cover notes are in Greek. The DVD, however, plays in English.
See also:
Mother Teresa: Woman of Compassion - in the Religious Studies 'Faith in Action' section.
In the Name of God's Poor
A moving dramatic feature telling the story of Mother Teresa's ministry to the sick and dying in Calcutta.
We first see her as a teacher at the Loreto School and take her story as far as the award of the Nobel Peace Prize. This is a compelling story with a convincing performance by Geraldine Chaplin as Mother Teresa in which her mission to share God's love with the dying and destitute shines clearly through.
Please note that this DVD is imported from Europe. The insert to the library case is in Greek but the film itself is entirely in English.
Mother Teresa: Woman of Compassion
The dramatic story of a young teenage Catholic girl, called by God to serve the poorest people of India, who inspired the world with her example of compassion and servanthood.
A valuable teaching resource which speaks of Christian love, discipleship and world poverty. Recommended for pupils at Key Stages 3,4 and above.
See also:
'Mother Teresa of Calcutta' (D173)
In the Streets of Calcutta
by Audrey Constant
The story of Mother Teresa and her work among the destitute and dying in Calcutta.
Specially recommended for project work at KS3 and KS4.
I Have a Dream
Rare historic recordings from three celebrated speeches by Dr Martin Luther King Jnr from his civil rights campaign - plus the moving eulogy given by Senator Robert Kennedy upon receiving the news of King's assassination.
The speeches:
1) Lincoln Memorial, Washington DC - 28 August 1963
2) Brown Chapel, Selma, Alabama - 8 March 1965
3) His final speech - 3 April 1968
4) Robert F Kennedy's eulogy - 4 April 1968
NEW RELEASE
Dr Martin Luther King
The authorised biography of the celebrated leader of the 1960's Civil Rights Movement in the USA. Using rare and largely unseen film footage and photographs, this DVD explores how Dr King's ideas, beliefs and methods evolved in the face of a rapidly changing culture.
An important programme, relevant for all interested in - or studying - a key moment in the history of the USA, Civil Rights, non-violent protest and the power of the individual to effect change within a democratic society.
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.
Specially recommended for project work at KS3 and KS4.
ASSISI IN SILENCE
The hidden network in Assisi that saved persecuted Jews during World War II.
During the Second World War, racist laws in Italy forced thousands of Jews to flee their cities in search of safety. A few hundred reached Assisi, the city of St Francis. Even with the city under German occupation, all of those who came were saved.
Under secret orders from Pope Pius XII, and with the help of the town's mayor and many of Assisi's citizens, monasteries and convents gave sanctuary to these persecuted refugees.
Interviews with some of those directly involved, historical footage and Pope John Paul II's message from Assisi to walk the paths of peace, combine to provide an important and moving record for all who wish to study Europe's history and the role of the church during this terrible time.
UNTOLD STORIES OF COLUMBINE
An amazing story of hope from the horrific massacre at Columbine High School on April 20, 1999, where many innocent lives were lost.
One of those was Rachel Joy Scott, murdered for her faith in God. Her death - and the courage behind it - offer us all a new view of life. Darrell, her father, shares how the tragedy has sparked many young people to take a stand for their faith in Christ and reveals the amazing contents of his daughter’s diaries with her apparent premonitions of what was to come.
THROUGH GATES OF SPLENDOUR
The inspiring true story of five missionaries who took the Gospel to the savage Auca Indians of the Amazon jungle and were savagely murdered.
Amazingly, the wives of two of them, plus a daughter, courageously returned to live among the tribes people to continue their work.
THE LAW OF LOVE
22-year old Jackie Pullinger could not gain missionary society sponsorship, so she went alone in the early 1960s to Hong Kong to work in the old Walled City amidst the drug-crazed vice and violence. Her youth outreach to heroin addicts brought healing to desperate lives through the power of prayer.
Particularly relevant for students at Key Stages 3,4 and beyond who are studying GCSE or A Level options on Contemporary Moral Issues or the nature of faith and prayer.
ON TOP OF THE WORLD
Filmed in the beautiful, mountainous kingdom of Nepal, this film shows Christian love in action as doctors and paramedics fight to eradicate the terrible scourge of leprosy. The geography and local culture are well illustrated as we gain insights into the world's only official Hindu country. A Grenville Films production for The Leprosy Mission, directed by Tony Tew, this enchanting video is suitable for all from age 8 upwards. Very useful in illustrating practical love and commitment in action - and without strings.
Gladys Aylward - A Small Woman with a Great God
Gladys Aylward (1902-1970) may have been small in stature at barely five feet tall, but she was a giant of conviction! Even Hollywood was amazed by her story and made a major film about her, entitled The Inn of the Sixth Happiness.
FORGIVING THE UNFORGIVABLE
Three case studies exploring how forgiveness can take place even in the most unthinkable of circumstances:
A peaceful Amish community in Pennsylvania comes to terms with the brutal murder of five of their young girls in a school massacre. How do they find it in their hearts to let go of anger and forgive?
A psychologist, who has just published a book on forgiveness, is devastated when his mother is senselessly murdered. Can he practice his own teaching?
Martin Luther King taught non-violence as the pathway to justice and reconciliation. But can those close to him maintain a peaceful and forgiving approach in the face of his assassination?
Each case study lasts approximately 10 minutes. Also included is a three-part study guide in PDF format.
Highly recommended for KS3 + KS4
BLACK OASIS
A cautionary look at the struggles teenagers face and the dark forces that can rip families apart.
This 26-minute fast-paced drama covers a day in the life of an angst-ridden teenager, Emily, whose childhood hurts have caused her to become seduced by the idea of suicide to escape the pain she feels.
LIVING DANGEROUSLY: Euthanasia Examined
A challenging and compassionate examination of a most important moral issue of today.
Key legal, ethical and religious perspectives in the euthanasia debate are considered - as well as possible alternatives. It includes sequences filmed at St Christopher's Hospice in Sydenham and an interview with its founder, Dame Cicely Saunders.
Suitable for students of Contemporary Moral Issues within GCSE or A Level Religious Studies.
AND STILL THEY WEEP
A moving and sensitive look at how abortion has affected the lives of four women. For classroom use, this video is suitable for showing whole or in shorter segments.
In Part Two, church and pro-life leaders examine some of the issues raised by abortion including 'what about disability and rape?' and 'what does the Bible say?'
Produced by SPUC, this VHS video comes with a 56-page study guide.
ABORTION - WHOSE CHOICE?
For 14-18 year olds, this video gives facts and arguments supporting a woman’s right to choose abortion. Three women share their experience of legal and illegal abortion, which is discussed in relation to the law, the pre-legislation situation, religious views and the consequences of illegality. A useful and well produced 4-page A4 leaflet: Abortion & Religion is also available which briefly looks at some key ethical questions from a pro-choice perspective. It includes viewpoints from the major world religions as well as the law and practice in several contrasting societies, a glossary of terms and useful web links. (Ref B143 in the Books section: £0.35p) Education for Choice.
SEX, LOVE & RELATIONSHIPS
'Teenagers have been betrayed!' They have not been told the whole truth about the consequences of sexual activity, experimentation and permissiveness.
Speaking from her own experience as a sexual health consellor, Pam Stenzel gives it to them straight, showing how the pervasive sexual permissiveness of our culture is a deceptive trap.
In this four-part series, Pam's message helps and encourages teenagers to avoid the disastrous consequences of unwise choices.
A 48-page leader's guide and reproducible student worksheets are included in PDF format.
Four programmes, with a total running time of two and a quarter hours, in accessible sections.
BLACK GOLD
A most provocative documentary telling the story of Tadesse Meskela and his struggle to keep his 74,000 Ethiopian coffee farmers from Western exploitation.
'Exposing the truth behind each cappuccino.'
'Remarkable: A moving but scandalous story. Black Gold has extraordinary power' (Daily Telegraph).
Classification: Exempt.
MAKING THE MOST OF LIFE
This moving film shows the work of Victoria School (part of the Shaftesbury Society) with seriously handicapped children. A very clear presentation of hope and success achieved through love and professional skill. A Grenville Films production for the Shaftesbury Society and directed by Tony Tew, this film has proved to be very useful in RE and PSE classes as a discussion starter offering much food for thought.
BLEDLOW RIDGE: THE OUTSIDER
Matt is a new boy at a British school. He so much wants to belong but he is a victim of bullying. Life becomes almost intolerable. Then, with an unlikely friend, they both find hope and a way out of their problems.
In four 15-minute parts and with a comprehensive study guide, this video can be used very effectively in RE and PSE lessons. Suitable for 7-13 year olds and general viewing.
CREATION OR EVOLUTION?
Can the Biblical account of creation be reconciled with modern scientific fact?
A candid, informative perspective and analysis of both the scientific and biblical accounts of creation. Its reasoned approach entirely supports the argument for creation being the work of a Master Designer but does so from a scientific perspective.
An attractive full-colour 76-page book is availabe to accompany the programme.
Recommended for pupils at Key Stages 3/4 and above.
One of our best selling DVDs!
LIFE'S STORY
Some scientists now suggest that modern DNA research indicates that simple cells did not evolve into all life on earth and that evolutionary theory might be flawed. So why is Darwin's theory still taught as 'fact'?
LIFE'S STORY takes us on a journey to the heart of the debate about life itself and challenges the whole theory of natural selection which has prevailed for over 150 years.
In a visually stunning presentation, LIFE'S STORY will inform, entertain and challenge any audience. Its claim that creation had a Creator - which is made from a scientific perspective - will stimulate much debate and reflection.
It is conveniently presented in several 10-15 minute segments enabling it to be shown over more than one session - or for selected segments to be shown alone. Recommended for audiences of 13 years of age and above.
LIFE'S STORY 2
From simple cells in the seas to fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, mammals and eventually human beings; this, we are told, has been the evolutionary tree of life. But does this theory fit in with what we see around us?
Millions of fossils have been found worldwide, but still none of any transitional species have been discovered. Could it be that none exist and that the millions of creatures on earth today have never been able to change into different species? After thousands of years of observable evidence and advanced biological research, do Darwin's evolutionary ideas measure up to the discoveries of modern science?
This factual and highly visual documentary seeks to unravel some of the most amazing mysteries of the natural world. With its beautiful photography and stunning images, it is recommended for secondary school and adult audiences.
THE PRIVILEGED PLANET
Stunning computer animation and spectacular images of the earth and solar system, interspersed with compelling statements from top scientists, present a compelling argument for purpose and intelligent design within the cosmos. A beautifully produced video suitable for teenage and adult audiences.
CHARLES DARWIN AND THE TREE OF LIFE
Made to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the birth of Charles Darwin, this programme is David Attenborough's personal insight into Darwin's theory of evolution.
Darwin's insight - that life has evolved over millions of years by natural selection - has been the cornerstone of all Attenborough's natural history series. In this documentary, he takes us on a deeply personal journey which reflects his own life and the way he came to understand Darwin's theory.
By visiting Darwin's home and tracing the voyage of the Beagle across the world, he explains how the great naturalist revolutionised our understanding of the natural world.
New and spectacular wildlife footage of fascinating animal behaviour brings the theory to life and fresh evidence and new discoveries add further insight into Darwin's work.
A BBC / Open University production.
Classification : PG
See also:
'Darwin: A Short Introduction' : OUP : Paperback.
'Darwin : The Origin of Species' : Wordsworth : Paperback.
UNLOCKING THE MYSTERY OF LIFE
Did life on Earth - with all its incredible complexity and diversity - arise from an undirected evolutionary process, as many scientists have believed since the time of Charles Darwin? Or was something else at work? This video takes us on a fascinating journey into the interior of a single living cell - an elaborate microscopic world with distinct systems that point dramatically to overwhelming evidence of intelligent design.
THE AMISH - HOW THEY SURVIVE
An intimate journey into Amish life and culture in the world's largest Amish community in Ohio.
Sixty years ago, they were considered to be in danger of disappearing. Today, they thrive as never before - both spiritually and sociologically. This film describes and illustrates that process.
Preferring community to technology, the Amish live their lives in close fellowship with one another. Within their religious communities, everyone agrees on what technologies to adopt, what clothes to wear and what form of transportation to use. Amazingly, every twenty years sees a doubling of their numbers.
A fascinating insight into a way of life that is both a contradiction and an inspiration.
THE AMISH : A PEOPLE OF PRESERVATION
A fascinating insight into the world of the Amish, with vignettes of their origins, farm life, childhood, school, worship, recreation, barn-raising, horse transport, and the impact of tourism.
Filmed in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania where the devoutly religious Amish people continue to live in their time-honoured way.
THE HISTORY OF ORTHODOX CHRISTIANITY
A detailed presentation of the Orthodox Church - its history, traditions and sacramental life.
This three-part documentary is an important tool in making the Orthodox Church better understood among those unfamiliar with this ancient Christian tradition.
Part One - The Beginnings.
From Ecumenical Councils and the Nicene Creed to the Crusades and the fall of Byzantium.
Part Two - Byzantium.
The Early Church, Christianity and Hellenism, persecution, the early Martyrs, Administrative Structure and the legalisation of the Church.
Part Three - Hidden Treasure.
The Church in captivity, Moscow: the Third Rome, the New World, Russia after Communism, Future challenges, the Essence of the Church.
A 32-page booklet of background material for teachers and discussion leaders is included with this DVD.
ENGLAND'S NAZARETH
A pilgrimage to the shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham which has drawn countless pilgrims for a thousand years.
ENGLAND'S NAZARETH is a vivid portrait of the Anglican shrine at Walsingham. We accompany a group of pilgrims and, with them, visit the Shrine Church, the Holy House, the grounds and Pilgrim's refectory. We also join with them in the Pilgrimage Mass, a candlelit procession and the Sprinkling at the Well.
A useful feature of this DVD is that it is presented in several fairly short episodes, each demonstrating a different aspect of the pilgrimage. It therefore lends itself very well to class use.
Strongly recommended for pupils who are undertaking project work on pilgrimage or are contemplating going on pilgrimage themselves. It is an excellent introduction to the topic for use at KS3 and above.
Certificate E (exempt)
LOURDES: PILGRIMAGE & HEALING
A video to introduce and explain the meaning of pilgrimage within the context of Lourdes and with special reference to St Bernadette's visions of the Virgin Mary. Inner healing, the biblical meaning of a pilgrimage and the messages given to St Bernadette form the main features.
Useful for RE projects and GCSE coursework on Pilgrimage - and for anyone considering going on a pilgrimage.
Certificate PG
NOW IN DVD FORMAT
See also:
'Bernadette - the Princess of Lourdes'
HUTTERITES: TO CARE AND NOT TO CARE
Spiritual cousins to Mennonites and Amish, the Hutterites live simple, communal lives, having rid themselves of poverty, murder and anxiety about the future. A fascinating video.
INSIDE ISLAM
Islam remains mysterious and misunderstood. How has the second largest world religion - based on concepts of love, peace and brotherhood - become, in the minds of some people, synonymous with terror?
How did the Qu'ran come to be written? What does it say about war, violence, suicide? What is the importance of the Five Pillars? How did Islam spread so quickly and what accounts for its extraordinary educational, cultural and scientific achievements?
Also of concern in our modern world is the question of why there are deep divisions and a crisis of authority within Islam today.
This excellent programme from the History Channel attempts, in a sympathetic and responsible way, to lift the veil of mystery surrounding a misunderstood historic religion.
It is recommended for all who want to develop their knowledge and understanding of both the history and true nature of Islam in todays world.
SEE ALSO:
Islam: Empire of Faith (V186)
ISLAM: EMPIRE OF FAITH (Empires Series)
Ben Kingsley narrates the spectacular story of the great sweep of Islamic power and faith during its first 1000 years - from the birth of the Prophet to the peak of the Ottoman Empire.
In three 55-minute episodes, through re-enactments, art, architecture and scholarly comment, the epic story unfolds of the history and culture of an empire of faith that dominated a millennium and encompassed half the world.
Episode 1 - 'The Messenger'. The dramatic story of the rise of Islam through the life of the Prophet Muhammad and his simple but revolutionary message.
Episode 2 - 'The Awakening'. The flowering of Islam into one of the great civilizations in history. Arabic becomes a language of learning with achievements in art, architecture, science and medicine. This episode also tells of the Crusades, the recapture of Jerusalem by Saladin the Great and the invasion of Islamic territory by the Mongols.
Episode 3 - 'The Ottomans'. Enlisted by Muslims to fight the Mongols, the Ottomans transform the Islamic world, creating a new empire that expands westward into Christian territories.
From the Empires Series.
SEE ALSO:
Inside Islam (D111)
KUMBH MELA
An amazing documentary film of the extraordinary Kumbh Mela Hindu festival, which has moved around India for more than four thousand years, erecting temporary cities along the Ganges river.
The January 2001 Kumbh Mela in Allahabad was the largest gathering of humanity in recorded history. About 70 million people came from all over the world to wash away their sins in the holy waters and pray for peace and rebirth.
This film also features the Dalai Lama, who had been specially invited to the event, BBC journalist Sir Mark Tully and JapaneseYogamata Keiko Aikawa.
A film which draws us into the kaleidoscopic mix of colour, sound and mood.
PLEASE NOTE:
This DVD is temporarily out of print but we expect to have it in stock again soon. Please enquire. Alternatively, you might look at SHORT CUT TO NIRVANA which covers similar ground.
THE LIFE OF BUDDHA
A thoughtful documentary which tells the story of the life of one of religion's most important figures, charting the spiritual transformation of Prince Siddhartha into the Buddha.
Additional features include:
Buddha & Brahmanism
The representation of the Buddha
Architecture at the time of the Buddha
The Stupas.
This DVD will interest students and religious historians. It is also an inspirational story for individuals of every race and religion.
TIBET - A BUDDHIST TRILOGY
This beautiful film trilogy, originally released in 1979, has been lovingly re-mastered for this high quality DVD release. It is a stunning and moving production with deep insights into Buddhist life and practice.
Part One : The Monasteries and the People.
Filmed in the Dalai Lama's residence in Dharamsala, North India, and in the rebuilt Sera Monastery, this opening part observes the Dalai Lama in his dual role as Head of State and spiritual teacher. In an elegant cinematic style, the film interweaves this personal portrait with an intimately observed exploration of the ways in which the inner knowledge of Tibetan Buddhist culture is developed in the monasteries, through vigorous debate and solitary meditation, and communicated to the lay community.
26 minutes.
Part Two: Radiating the Truth
With extraordinaary authenticity, we journey deep into the mystical inner world of monastic life. Set in the ancient village of Boudha in Nepal, and the isolated mountain caves of the yogis, the film follows the lamas of the Phulwary Sakya Monastery through their contemplative retreats, the building of an intricate cosmogram, and the performance of an ancient protective ritual known as A Beautiful Ornament. Through the ritual invocation of the female deity Tara, the malevolent forces that might bring harm to the society are invited and magically transformed. With a subtitled commentary, the essence of trantic Buddhism is powerfully revealed.
70 minutes.
Part Three: The Fields of the Senses.
Set in the majestic mountain landscape of Ladakh, this part is a meditation on impermanence and the relationship between the mind, body and environment. It follows the monks and farmers through a day, ending with an unflinching depiction of the monastery's moving ritual response to a death in the community. As in the Tibetan Book of the Dead, the departed is guided through the dream-like intermediate state between death and birth.
37 minutes.
Very highy recommended for anyone studying the practice and philosophy of Buddhism.
KUNDUN
Martin Scorsese's acclaimed film charts the life of the young Dalai Lama as his country is invaded and his people swallowed up by their neighbouring superpower.
Barely able to walk, the young Tenzin Gyatso is identified as the newly reincarnated form of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Leaving his family behind to live in a Buddhist monastery, he grows to manhood in spiritual isolation, sheltered from the influences of Western worldliness and the dangerous encroachment of the Chinese army, which invaded Tibet in 1950 and forced the Buddhist leaders into exile.
Preaching peace and understanding among all people, he eventually travels to China to meet Mao Tse Tung but to no avail. In a heartbreaking decision, he elects to flee his Tibetan homeland to avoid almost certain death.
The cinematography of Roger Deakins is visually stunning and along with the striking score of Philip Glass received an Oscar nomination. Kadun is film making at its most profound and beautiful.
Certificate 12.
A DIARY OF REVIVAL
A film to mark the 100th anniversary of the 1904 Welsh Revival.
Using contemporary letters, re-enactments, interviews and photographs, we gain an insight into this remarkable phenomenon through the eyes and thoughts of the Revivalist himself, 26-year-old Evan Roberts. The story traces his steps from his conversion at 13, through his time working in the coal mine and blacksmith's shop to the grammar school at Newcastle Emlyn and the outbreak of the Revival at his home church of Moriah Lougher.
An intriguing insight, specially relevant to all with an interest in Welsh history and religion.
NEW RELEASE
SHORT CUT TO NIRVANA
This enthralling film treks to the heart of the largest gathering of humanity on Earth: the Kumbh Mela.
This huge festival has been held in India every 12 years for over two millennia.
The film spectacularly captures the feeling of spiritual bliss, eternal wisdom and candid joy that envelop the festival's pilgrims and eminent gurus in attendance.
A special appearance by the Dalai Lama is also included as well as a reflection on their experiences by western pilgrims four years after attending.
STORYBOOK DVD - Series One
TALES OF LIFE FOR CHILDREN
Six delightfully illustrated short stories teaching some age-old truths for children.
A Grenville production, featuring Nicky Clinch and Hannah Storey and directed by Tony Tew, this series is ideal for 5-9 year olds but will also be found useful for older Primary age children. In a charming and entertaining way it deals with issues ranging from the reason for rules to using the gifts God has given us.
Each story is introduced and commented on in a way which leaves its audience with room for thought by linking its theme clearly to the teaching of Jesus or St Paul.
Delightful illustrations and captivating storytelling bring the Storybook to life and will be found useful at home, in the classroom, Holiday Club or Sunday School. Their short length also make them ideal for large screen presentation in a school assembly.
Each episode lasts for 7-9 minutes. Highly recommended.
SERIES TWO is now available - see separate listing for details.
Trade supplies available.
STORYBOOK DVD - Series Two
TALES OF LIFE FOR CHILDREN
Six more delightful short stories teaching some age-old truths for children.
A Grenville production, featuring Nicky Clinch and Gemma Rubinstein and directed by Tony Tew, this second series is ideal for 5-9 year olds but will also be found useful for older Primary age children. In a charming and entertaining way it deals with issues ranging from gossiping to valuing others - and also includes a charming and helpful introduction to God's kingdom.
Each story on the DVD is introduced, read and commented on in a way which leaves the young audience with room for thought by linking its theme clearly to the teaching of Jesus or St Paul.
Delightful illustrations and captivating storytelling bring the Storybook to life and will be found useful at home as well as in the classroom, Holiday Club or Sunday School. Their short length also make them ideal for large screen presentation in a school assembly.
Each episode lasts for approximately 7-9 minutes. Highly recommended.
SERIES ONE is also available. - see separate listing for details.
Trade supplies available.
GREENBELT LIVE!
A brilliant film capturing the atmosphere and excitement of the 1979 Greenbelt Festival. This is a real collector’s piece, featuring Cliff Richard, Larry Norman, Randy Stonehill, Garth Hewitt, After the Fire, Alexander John ... and many more. A special re-release to mark the 25th anniversary of a vintage Greenbelt. A Grenville Films production, directed by Tony Tew and transmitted on prime-time BBC1, this film offers an exuberant snapshot of where Contemporary Christian Music was 25 years ago!
See also:
'Greenbelt Live!' 12" stereo LP from the film soundtrack. Pressed on green vinyl! (A116)
GREENBELT LIVE! LP
12” LP pressed on green vinyl. A great, nostalgic live stereo recording from the soundtrack of the classic Grenville film transmitted on primetime BBC1. Re-released to mark the 25th anniversary of a spectacular Greenbelt festival.
Featuring: Bryn Haworth, Giantkiller, Lamb, Cliff Richard, Kainos, Garth Hewitt, Vatten, Aleksander John, Randy Stonehill and Larry Norman.
Complete with full-colour souvenir brochure.
See also:
'Greenbelt Live!' video - as shown on BBC1. (V170)
EASTER PROMISE
Jerem is excited at the imminent arrival of King Jesus but is fooled by appearances and rejects him. But in a wonderful lesson about truth, appearance and forgiveness he ultimately comes to trust in Jesus and witnesses the promised miracle of the resurrection. Animated. Approximately 45 minutes. Recommended for Primary age children.
This DVD contains both EASTER PROMISE and THE WITNESS.
HEROES FROM CHRISTIAN HISTORY
Animated stories - each about 9 minutes long - on four people who have made significant contributions to the history of Christianity over the past few centuries:
John Bunyan
David Livingstone
Mary Jones
William Wilberforce
Well illustrated and presented for 5-10 year olds.
NIKOLAI
The gripping story of a teenage boy who has to choose between his faith, his education and future career opportunities in the former Soviet Union. Ideal for illustrating the price some have to pay to honour their faith. A useful discussion starter for 11-15 year olds as well as for wider audiences. A Grenville Films production in association with EO Television and Open Doors. Directed by Tony Tew.
Please direct trade orders to CLC Wholesale.
BEN HUR
A spectacular animated adaptation for children (3-6 yrs) of one of the best-loved films of all time. Narrated by the original star, Charlton Heston.
A timeless tale of love, forgiveness and redemption culminates in a thrill-packed chariot race.
TREASURES OF THE SNOW
High in the Swiss Alps, young Danny has a serious climbing accident. Lucien, a lonely, frightened boy of 13, is blamed and becomes an outcast from family and friends. A touching story of forgiveness and reconciliation, filmed in breathtaking locations.
THE CROSS AND THE SWITCHBLADE
Starring Pat Boone and Eric Estrada, this dramatic film tells the story of David Wilkerson and his extraordinary mission to reach out to the notorious street fighter, Nicky Cruz, and the teenage gangs of 1960’s New York.
The DVD version also has Spanish, Portuguese, French, German, Italian, Russian and Polish soundtracks.
See also the video documentary of Nicky Cruz:
Run Baby Run
THE WITNESS
Barabbas attends the Crucifixion and is faced with the plaguing question ‘Was Jesus really the Son of God?’ His search for answers reveals witnesses with facts he cannot dispute during the tumultuous days of the first Easter. A fictitious story which manipulates the timetable but deals effectively with the challenging question of who Jesus really is.
Also available on a DVD coupled with EASTER PROMISE.
PIONEERS OF THE SPIRIT
Throughout history, men and women have experienced profound spiritual longings. A few, facing unchartered territory, mapped new terrain in their search for intimacy with God. They were pioneers of the spirit.
Each of five biographical profiles weaves together excerpts from the personal writings of each featured pioneer with dramatic artwork and expert comments focussing on the relevance of each to our contemporary times.
Today, we can benefit enormously from these Pioneers of the Spirit who offer encouragement to all earnest seekers. These programmes are ideal for study groups or students taking 'A' Level courses.
The five featured pioneers are:
Augustine of Hippo
Teresa of Avila
Julian of Norwich
Hildegard of Bingen
Ignatius Loyola
DOES GOD BELIEVE IN ATHEISTS?
A video to accompany the book of the same title by John Blanchard. Dr Blanchard draws on the wide research in which he engaged while writing the book, developing some of its key themes with insight, clarity and humour.
REALITY - with MICHAEL GREEN
Pulling no punches and refusing to cave into political correctness, Dr Michael Green confronts the prevailing multicultural ideology and affirms the unique claims of the Gospel. He shows that all religions are not the same - and explains why.
Supplied on three video tapes and accompanied by a 56-page leader’s guide, the twelve half-hour programmes are:
• Who is God?
• Does my life have meaning?
• Who’s Who in the Spirit World?
• Is it not safe to die?
• Who is this Jesus?
• One world, one religion?
• The Good, the Bad and the Suffering.
• Truth, lies and videotape.
• Who is this Spirit?
• We meant no harm!
• Can I change myself?
• Why on earth the Church?
12 x half-hour programmes.
DESMOND TUTU
Born in October 1932, Desmond Tutu is recognised as a key presence in helping guide his nation of South Africa through its amazing late 20th century political transformation and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1984.
In this intimate video, Bishop Tutu discusses a number of issues close to his heart including:
What is God like?
Why were we created?
What role does love play in our lives?
How important are our personal relationships?
Can worship be made vital and meaningful today?
What about prayer?
BHUTAN - Gross National Happiness
On the southern slopes of the Himalayas, the kingdom of Bhutan, where millennial traditions co-exist with modern technology, allows only about 5000 tourists to visit each year.
Under the guidance of the King, the Royal Government is implementing a unique, long-term political strategy called 'Gross National Happiness'(GNH) based on the belief that the primary purpose of development is to bring happiness to the population, rather than aiming solely for an increase in Gross Domestic Product.
The idea of GNH is based on four pillars:
1) Sustainable and equitable socio-economic development
2) Conservation of the fragile Himalayan ecology
3) Preservation and promotion of the traditional culture
4) Enhancement of good governance
These four principles are in tune with the Buddhist tradition which has prevailed in Bhutan since the 9th century.
In a world where material prosperity appears to be the only measuring stick for progress, it is refreshing and highly relevant to investigate this alternative approach to GDP.
BLACK GOLD
A most provocative documentary telling the story of Tadesse Meskela and his struggle to keep his 74,000 Ethiopian coffee farmers from Western exploitation.
'Exposing the truth behind each cappuccino.'
'Remarkable: A moving but scandalous story. Black Gold has extraordinary power' (Daily Telegraph).
Classification: Exempt.
THE RAGING PLANET
Eight 50-minute documentaries revealing the awsome forces of nature and their effects on our planet, contained in an attractive library presentation slipcase.
Angry Earth
Avalanches
El Nino
Fireballs from Space
Planet Storm
Savage Sun
Volcanoes
When Nature Rules
Each of these programmes is described on its individual page of this catalogue. Together, they provide a spectacular resource dramatically bringing to life the extraordinary forces of nature and the means by which scientists can predict them and cope with their aftermath.
NATURE'S FURY - MINI SET
Three 50-minute documentaries from the full NATURE'S FURY set, presented in an attractive slip case.
The programmes included are:
Tornadoes
Hurricanes
Landslide
THE RAGING PLANET - Mini Set
Three documentaries revealing some awsome forces of nature and their effects on our planet, contained in an attractive library slipcase.
Volcanoes - 50 mins
Avalanches - 50 mins
Planet Storm - 102 mins
Each of these programmes is described on its individual page of this online catalogue. Together, they provide a spectacular resource dramatically bringing to life the extraordinary forces of nature and the means by which scientists can predict them and cope with their aftermath.
NATURE'S FURY
A set of 8 excellent 50-minute documentary programmes presented in an attractive presentation slip case.
The eight programme themes are:
Extreme Weather
Landslides
Floods
Lightning
Hurricanes
Tornados
Global Catastrophe
Exodus Earth
UNTAMED EARTH COLLECTION
Three DVDs are included in this excellent value boxed set dealing with the causes and effects of major natural phenomena around the world:
FEROCIOUS FLOODS:
The fury of nature unleashed with dramatic footage and eye-witness accounts.
AVALANCHE:
Cascading snow, red hot lava, tumbling rock - nature at its most lethal.
WILD WINDS:
Mayhem from hurricanes and tornadoes. How much do we know about them?
STATE OF THE PLANET
David Attenborough presents a hard-hitting documentary series on the extinction crisis many scientists believe is beginning to threaten the integrity of the entire biosphere.
With a combination of stunning photography, glossy production, Attenborough's inspirational commentary and subject matter of the greatest and most urgent importantance, this is a riveting production by any standards.
The three programmes cover:
1) the scientific understanding of the crisis,
2) the extent to which humans are implicated in the wave of extinctions sweeping across our planet,
3) ways of potentially slowing or halting the present decline in Earth's biodiversity and ecosystems.
With important contributions from some of the world's leading authorities on biodiversity and extinction, this is a truly excellent production from BBC Television.
WILD SOUTH AMERICA: ANDES TO AMAZON
An exploration of the diverse and unique wildlife that inhabits the vast South American continent - a land of great extremes, stretching from the Antarctic to the Equator with the planet's greatest river system, longest mountain chain, biggest and richest rainforest and driest desert.
Using the latest camera techniques, including infrared night vision cameras, rarely seen animals are revealed, whilst a specialist aerial cameraman soars over the continent, revealing an entirely new perspective on its varied and dramatic landscape.
EARTH STORY
Stunning documentary following scientists around the world - at the bottom of the ocean, in an active volcano, high in the Himalayas etc - as they explain the story of the Earth.
Aubrey Manning takes us on a voyage of discovery across our planet to unravel its secrets.
Using brilliant filming and computer animation techniques, we travel through time and space on a fantastic journey of scientific discovery which reveals a comprehensive history of life on our planet in its many forms.
A brilliant and highly acclaimed production in seven episodes from the BBC.
EARTH: THE POWER OF THE PLANET
A landmark BBC series, in which Dr Iain Stewart tells the story of how our planet works and how, over the course of 4.6 billion years, it came to be the remarkable planet it is today.
Examining the great forces that shape the earth - volcanoes, the ocean, the atmosphere and ice - the programmes explore their central roles in our planet's story, showing the earth in new and surprising ways.
An innovative set of five programmes which utilise specialist imaging and a compulsive narrative to illustrate the workings of our planet, helping to explain the reasons why Earth is so special.
AMAZING EARTH
The geological factors which have altered the face of our planet are examined in this intriguing documentary film from The Discovery Channel.
From the heights of Mount Everest, through the molten lava fields of Hawaii, to the very core of our planet, Amazing Earth scours the globe to reveal the geological forces that have changed the face of our planet and will ultimately sculpt it again.
AVALANCHES
The avalanche is one of the most frightening and destructive forces of nature, with over a million cascading down the world's mountains each year. In parts of Europe, whole communities live under constant threat. A beautiful white river of snow from afar, close up it is a terrifying 'white death'.
New technologies, however, may keep victims alive long enough to be rescued and across the globe, scientists have stepped up the pace of avalanche research creating revolutionary tools to unravel the complex dynamics of violent snow. The race is on to understand - and ultimately live with - the avalanche.
LANDSLIDE
Landslides kill more people and cost us more money than all of the other natural disasters combined. From the Discovery Channel, this DVD investigates the main reasons for them.
Geologists and engineers attempt to understand their cause and how they can be predicted. Incredible footage of landslides is also included alongside interviews with eye-witnesses who recount the deafening sound, often described as being like a freight train, heralding a mass of rapidly moving earth.
VOLCANOES
Around the world, volcanoes are heating up at an alarming rate. Many scientists believe that this activity is more than a coincidence and that we may be on the verge of a series of cataclysmic eruptions.
This programme takes us into the heart of volcanoes in a quest to predict these pending disasters. In particular, we focus on the city of Banos, in Ecuador, which lies in the shadows of Tungurahua, - 'The Black Giant' - which has erupted killing 19 people.
WHEN NATURE RULES
We look at some extreme examples of nature unleashing itself through earthquakes, hurricanes and volcanic eruptions and set out to understand why they occurred and how we can measure, predict and affect their consequences in future.
Survivors tell their tale and remarkable footage brings these giant cataclysms into full focus.
LIVING IN EXTREMES
An exploration of the world's harshest living conditions.
This programme from The Discovery Channel also looks at some of the world's most adaptable animals and plants as they struggle to survive in such harsh environments.
EL NINO
The complexity of its causes and effects has led meteorologists to regard El Nino as the biggest weather phenomenon on the planet.
In 1982/83 it was responsible for over 3000 deaths. Consequently, the El Nino of 1997/98 was the most monitored weather event in history.
Documenting this event, we profile every stage, the damage caused and the breakthrough research conducted by climatologists.
TSUNAMI - The Killer Wave
A film made for BBCtv on the catastrophe of Boxing Day 2004 which left devastation throughout South Asia. Focusing on Phuket, we hear from the families and tourists who were there and the volunteers helping to rebuild the local communities.
For every DVD sold, a donation of £1 will be made to a relevant charity.
UNDERSTANDING OCEANS
An investigation of the ocean's currents, winds and weather systems.
Oceans are dangerous and threatening but at the same time beautiful and appealing. Are the ice caps melting? Is the planet getting hotter? Will sea levels rise? The answers to many questions relevant to global warming lie in the oceans.
The programme also demonstrates the phenomenon of The Great Conveyor Belt - the circular process of warm water moving north, sinking in the Atlantic and then returning back to the equator.
FROZEN KINGDOM
As we journey to the world's coldest places, we find a diverse variety of life that defies the elements in this programme from the Discovery Channel.
GLACIERS - Alaskan Rivers of Ice
We follow the U.S. Geological Survey group on a trip to Alaska to explore it's phenomenal, mountain-high glaciers.
This exciting experience also teaches the differences in glacier types, their elaborate geometry, and the mystery surrounding their formation from beginning to end.
WILD WEATHER
Breathtaking filming techniques and stunning computer graphics immerse us in the very heart of the elements as we experience the wildest the weather can become.
In this innovative and immensely watchable BBC series, the most potent and beautiful forces of nature are presented by Donal MacIntyre, using the latest ground-breaking technology. The four episodes: Wind - Water - Winter - Summer, explore how these features produce hurricanes, monsoons, ice storms and tornadoes, as well as regulate the global environment.
An excellent mainstream documentary series from the BBC.
Certificate PG.
EXTREME WEATHER
Paul Hudson recalls sixty years of the best and the worst of northern weather with dramatic pictures and eyewitness accounts.
Including the blizzards of 1947, the coastal floods of 1953, the summer of 1976, the drought of 1995 and the floods of 2000.
TORNADO
With winds of up to 300 mph, a Tornado can turn a piece of straw into a lethal projectile capable of piercing tree trunks.
With live action footage and state of the art animation, this informative programme from the Discovery Channel examines many commonly held myths surrounding tornados.
TROPICAL RAINFOREST
An evolutionary journey through tropical rainforests and all the diversity of life these natural wonders have to offer.
From insects and mammals to the birds of the tree canopy, we meet the rainforest on its own terms and learn about the plants and animals that live in the world's tropical oases. With a concise commentary and stunning photography.
SPIRITS OF THE RAINFOREST
Three thousand miles from the mouth of the Amazon, along the base of the towering Andes, lies the Manu Biosphere Reserve - the world's largest and most pristine rainforest.
Stunning aerial and ground footage allows us to experience the beauty of the region enriched by glimpses of the day-to-day life of the Machiguenga tribe. We see Merino, a highly skilled hunter, teaching his son and marvel at the richness of the natural environment with its giant otters and unbelievable bird life.
The land, the legends and the legacies of this remote and resplendent region.
AN INCONVENIENT TRUTH
A double Oscar winning wake-up call for the planet from Al Gore, the self-deprecating former US presidential candidate, who takes us through the science of global warming and climate change in plain English.
Director Davis Guggenheim breaks up Gore's lecture by illustrating his points with film footage, much of which features the former Democratic nominee exploring the globe as he examines the nature and effects of the problem.
It's hard not to be alarmed by most of what Gore has to say as he relates tales of melting polar icecaps, rising global temperatures, and the reluctance of political leaders to do anything about the problem. But no easy solutions are offered. Gore's advice is for individuals to take steps to reduce their own inadvertent poisoning of the atmosphere, and to persuade others to do likewise.
It's a powerful message that is likely to remain in the mind long after the film ends.
WINNER OF TWO OSCARS - 2007
SAVAGE SUN
With a core temperature of 30 million degrees, the Sun is the power plant of our solar system. It explodes with the force of a million H-bombs every second.
From the Big Ben Observatory, the National Space Weather Station and the SOHO satellite, 'Savage Sun' presents the most amazing images of the sun yet gathered.
The sun is the cause of all life on earth and if we could trap all of the energy that fell on earth in a single day, we could satisfy humanity's power needs for 30 years.
In this programme we meet scientists wanting to make their own sun in a fusion reactor and are seeking to forecast the future of the universe by studying the particle nature of neutrinos. We also visit a massive solar farm where half a million reflectors track the sun and provide energy for 50,000 homes.
PLANET STORM
Apocalyptic weather reigns on other planets in our solar system but until now has never been experienced by man.
Planet Storm explores Mars' raging dust storms, Jupiter's Great Red Spot and the extraordinary atmosphere of Lo and sees them recreated back on earth where weather worlds collide.
FIREBALLS FROM SPACE
Hundreds of tons of space debris, most of it microscopic particles, fall to Earth every day. But a fireball the size of a football pitch could land here too.
An impact 65 million years may have been responsible for ending the reign of the dinosaurs. Now, the thought that our planet orbits in a shooting gallery of comets and asteroids is getting serious attention and we learn how scientists are investigating how comets and asteroids may have been re-shaping evolution.
THE TRUTH ABOUT CLIMATE CHANGE
In this BBC/Open University co-production, Sir David Attenborough undertakes a personal journey to discover how global warming is changing the planet he knows so well.
The Truth About Climate Change is a two part documentary which asks the question: 'What is the future for our world?'
In programme one, Attenborough searches the evidence for global warming to establish what is causing it. Some extraordinary phenomena have taken place in recent times; Hurricane Katrina, the heat wave of 2003, polar bears swimming in search of ice and vast swarms of insects enveloping an African village. But are these isolated incidents or are they omens of a greater global change?
He discovers that the world is warming at an unprecedented rate, and finds out why this is now far beyond any normal allowance for cyclical fluctuation.
The world that Sir David brought to the screen in so many celebrated series may be about to disappear. But are humans to blame?
In programme two, he assesses the predictions for global warming to discover what may happen to our world in the future and asks: 'what can we do to save it?' The programme investigates some of the possible scenarios for the future, including a rise in sea level, insect plagues and an increase in diseases.
But 'The Truth About Climate Change' also looks ahead to what the long-term impact on the planet is likely to be, and things we can do to make sure those worse case scenarios simply don’t come true.
These programmes are a call to arms by the man who over the years has shown us so much of our rapidly changing planet.
Exempt from Classification.
THE 11th HOUR
Leonardo DiCaprio presents this thought-provoking documentary about the fragile state of our planet's ecosystems and the dangers we face from climate change.
We've seen the devastating effects of natural disasters like Hurricane Katrina, but now scientists from around the world believe that unless we act immediately to cut carbon emissions and switch to renewable energy sources, humankind is in very real danger of becoming extinct.
The film explores how we arrived at this unfortunate predicament, blaming industrial civilisation for much of the damage and world leaders for allowing it to happen.
'The 11th Hour' has an impressive list of contributors, including former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev, renowned scientist Stephen Hawking and many other top experts.
Certificate PG.
A CRUDE AWAKENING
A shocking wake-up call that is set to do for energy what Al Gore's 'An Inconvenient Truth' did for the environment.
A Crude Awakening is a compelling, intelligent and urgent warning that the age of abundant oil is over.
Featuring testimonies from the world's top experts, this startling documentary reaches an ominous yet logical conclusion that the Earth's oil supplies are peaking and a crisis of global proportions looms.
Even more alarmingly, industrial societies seem to have no plans for how to deal with the shortage that threatens our fossil fuel-addicted civilization with disaster.
The film also offers some potential solutions to the oil crisis by looking at alternative energy sources.
Certificate PG.
STATE OF THE PLANET
David Attenborough presents a hard-hitting documentary series on the extinction crisis many scientists believe is beginning to threaten the integrity of the entire biosphere.
With a combination of stunning photography, glossy production, Attenborough's inspirational commentary and subject matter of the greatest and most urgent importantance, this is a riveting production by any standards.
The three programmes cover:
1) the scientific understanding of the crisis,
2) the extent to which humans are implicated in the wave of extinctions sweeping across our planet,
3) ways of potentially slowing or halting the present decline in Earth's biodiversity and ecosystems.
With important contributions from some of the world's leading authorities on biodiversity and extinction, this is a truly excellent production from BBC Television.
EARTH STORY
Stunning documentary following scientists around the world - at the bottom of the ocean, in an active volcano, high in the Himalayas etc - as they explain the story of the Earth.
Aubrey Manning takes us on a voyage of discovery across our planet to unravel its secrets.
Using brilliant filming and computer animation techniques, we travel through time and space on a fantastic journey of scientific discovery which reveals a comprehensive history of life on our planet in its many forms.
A brilliant and highly acclaimed production in seven episodes from the BBC.
WILD SOUTH AMERICA - FROM THE ANDES TO THE AMAZON
An exploration of the diverse and unique wildlife that inhabits the vast South American continent - a land of great extremes, stretching from the Antarctic to the Equator with the planet's greatest river system, longest mountain chain, biggest and richest rainforest and driest desert.
Using the latest camera techniques, including infrared night vision cameras, rarely seen animals are revealed, whilst a specialist aerial cameraman soars over the continent, revealing an entirely new perspective on its varied and dramatic landscape.
EARTH: THE POWER OF THE PLANET
A landmark BBC series, in which Dr Iain Stewart tells the story of how our planet works and how, over the course of 4.6 billion years, it came to be the remarkable planet it is today.
Examining the great forces that shape the earth - volcanoes, the ocean, the atmosphere and ice - the programmes explore their central roles in our planet's story, showing the earth in new and surprising ways.
An innovative set of five programmes which utilise specialist imaging and a compulsive narrative to illustrate the workings of our planet, helping to explain the reasons why Earth is so special.
TSUNAMI: THE KILLER WAVE
A film made for BBCtv on the catastrophe of Boxing Day 2004 which left devastation throughout South Asia. Focusing on Phuket, we hear from the families and tourists who were there and the volunteers helping to rebuild the local communities.
For every DVD sold, a donation of £1 will be made to a relevant charity.
WILD WEATHER
Breathtaking filming techniques and stunning computer graphics immerse us in the very heart of the elements as we experience the wildest the weather can become.
In this innovative and immensely watchable BBC series, the most potent and beautiful forces of nature are presented by Donal MacIntyre, using the latest ground-breaking technology. The four episodes: Wind - Water - Winter - Summer, explore how these features produce hurricanes, monsoons, ice storms and tornadoes, as well as regulate the global environment.
An excellent mainstream documentary series from the BBC.
Certificate PG.
THE TRUTH ABOUT CLIMATE CHANGE
In this BBC/Open University co-production, Sir David Attenborough undertakes a personal journey to discover how global warming is changing the planet he knows so well.
The Truth About Climate Change is a two part documentary which asks the question: 'What is the future for our world?'
In programme one, Attenborough searches the evidence for global warming to establish what is causing it. Some extraordinary phenomena have taken place in recent times; Hurricane Katrina, the heat wave of 2003, polar bears swimming in search of ice and vast swarms of insects enveloping an African village. But are these isolated incidents or are they omens of a greater global change?
He discovers that the world is warming at an unprecedented rate, and finds out why this is now far beyond any normal allowance for cyclical fluctuation.
The world that Sir David brought to the screen in so many celebrated series may be about to disappear. But are humans to blame?
In programme two, he assesses the predictions for global warming to discover what may happen to our world in the future and asks: 'what can we do to save it?' The programme investigates some of the possible scenarios for the future, including a rise in sea level, insect plagues and an increase in diseases.
But 'The Truth About Climate Change' also looks ahead to what the long-term impact on the planet is likely to be, and things we can do to make sure those worse case scenarios simply don’t come true.
These programmes are a call to arms by the man who over the years has shown us so much of our rapidly changing planet.
Exempt from Classification.
THE TRUTH ABOUT CLIMATE CHANGE
In this BBC/Open University co-production, Sir David Attenborough undertakes a personal journey to discover how global warming is changing the planet he knows so well.
The Truth About Climate Change is a two part documentary which asks the question: 'What is the future for our world?'
In programme one, Attenborough searches the evidence for global warming to establish what is causing it. Some extraordinary phenomena have taken place in recent times; Hurricane Katrina, the heat wave of 2003, polar bears swimming in search of ice and vast swarms of insects enveloping an African village. But are these isolated incidents or are they omens of a greater global change?
He discovers that the world is warming at an unprecedented rate, and finds out why this is now far beyond any normal allowance for cyclical fluctuation.
The world that Sir David brought to the screen in so many celebrated series may be about to disappear. But are humans to blame?
In programme two, he assesses the predictions for global warming to discover what may happen to our world in the future and asks: 'what can we do to save it?' The programme investigates some of the possible scenarios for the future, including a rise in sea level, insect plagues and an increase in diseases.
But 'The Truth About Climate Change' also looks ahead to what the long-term impact on the planet is likely to be, and things we can do to make sure those worse case scenarios simply don’t come true.
These programmes are a call to arms by the man who over the years has shown us so much of our rapidly changing planet.
Exempt from Classification.
AN INCONVENIENT TRUTH
A double Oscar winning wake-up call for the planet from Al Gore, the self-deprecating former US presidential candidate, who takes us through the science of global warming and climate change in plain English.
Director Davis Guggenheim breaks up Gore's lecture by illustrating his points with film footage, much of which features the former Democratic nominee exploring the globe as he examines the nature and effects of the problem.
It's hard not to be alarmed by most of what Gore has to say as he relates tales of melting polar icecaps, rising global temperatures, and the reluctance of political leaders to do anything about the problem. But no easy solutions are offered. Gore's advice is for individuals to take steps to reduce their own inadvertent poisoning of the atmosphere, and to persuade others to do likewise.
It's a powerful message that is likely to remain in the mind long after the film ends.
WINNER OF TWO OSCARS - 2007
THE 11th HOUR
Leonardo DiCaprio presents this thought-provoking documentary about the fragile state of our planet's ecosystems and the dangers we face from climate change.
We've seen the devastating effects of natural disasters like Hurricane Katrina, but now scientists from around the world believe that unless we act immediately to cut carbon emissions and switch to renewable energy sources, humankind is in very real danger of becoming extinct.
The film explores how we arrived at this unfortunate predicament, blaming industrial civilisation for much of the damage and world leaders for allowing it to happen.
'The 11th Hour' has an impressive list of contributors, including former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev, renowned scientist Stephen Hawking and many other top experts.
Certificate PG.
A CRUDE AWAKENING
A shocking wake-up call that is set to do for energy what Al Gore's 'An Inconvenient Truth' did for the environment.
A Crude Awakening is a compelling, intelligent and urgent warning that the age of abundant oil is over.
Featuring testimonies from the world's top experts, this startling documentary reaches an ominous yet logical conclusion that the Earth's oil supplies are peaking and a crisis of global proportions looms.
Even more alarmingly, industrial societies seem to have no plans for how to deal with the shortage that threatens our fossil fuel-addicted civilization with disaster.
The film also offers some potential solutions to the oil crisis by looking at alternative energy sources.
Certificate PG.
BLACK GOLD
A most provocative documentary telling the story of Tadesse Meskela and his struggle to keep his 74,000 Ethiopian coffee farmers from Western exploitation.
'Exposing the truth behind each cappuccino.'
'Remarkable: A moving but scandalous story. Black Gold has extraordinary power' (Daily Telegraph).
Classification: Exempt.
WILD WEATHER
Breathtaking filming techniques and stunning computer graphics immerse us in the very heart of the elements as we experience the wildest the weather can become.
In this innovative and immensely watchable BBC series, the most potent and beautiful forces of nature are presented by Donal MacIntyre, using the latest ground-breaking technology. The four episodes: Wind - Water - Winter - Summer, explore how these features produce hurricanes, monsoons, ice storms and tornadoes, as well as regulate the global environment.
An excellent mainstream documentary series from the BBC.
Certificate PG.
TORNADO
With winds of up to 300 mph, a Tornado can turn a piece of straw into a lethal projectile capable of piercing tree trunks.
With live action footage and state of the art animation, this informative programme from the Discovery Channel examines many commonly held myths surrounding tornados.
EL NINO
The complexity of its causes and effects has led meteorologists to regard El Nino as the biggest weather phenomenon on the planet.
In 1982/83 it was responsible for over 3000 deaths. Consequently, the El Nino of 1997/98 was the most monitored weather event in history.
Documenting this event, we profile every stage, the damage caused and the breakthrough research conducted by climatologists.
EXTREME WEATHER
Paul Hudson recalls sixty years of the best and the worst of northern weather with dramatic pictures and eyewitness accounts.
Including the blizzards of 1947, the coastal floods of 1953, the summer of 1976, the drought of 1995 and the floods of 2000.
Spirits of the Rainforest
Three thousand miles from the mouth of the Amazon, along the base of the towering Andes, lies the Manu Biosphere Reserve - the world's largest and most pristine rainforest.
Stunning aerial and ground footage allows us to experience the beauty of the region enriched by glimpses of the day-to-day life of the Machiguenga tribe. We see Merino, a highly skilled hunter, teaching his son and marvel at the richness of the natural environment with its giant otters and unbelievable bird life.
The land, the legends and the legacies of this remote and resplendent region.
Tropical Rainforest
An evolutionary journey through tropical rainforests and all the diversity of life these natural wonders have to offer.
From insects and mammals to the birds of the tree canopy, we meet the rainforest on its own terms and learn about the plants and animals that live in the world's tropical oases. With a concise commentary and stunning photography.
WORLD WAR 1 - IN COLOUR
Narrated by Kenneth Branagh, and using rare archival film from the Imperial War Museum and other worldwide sources, this 6-part series has been painstakingly colourised using the latest technology.
It offers a definitive guide to the First World War as never seen before.
This was the war that first saw the fighter plane, the use of pioson gas and the tank - plus the wider use of the machine gun and heavy artillery.
A landmark series which brings a unique perspective to the events of 1914-1918 when 65 million men took up arms against one another and threw the world into chaos.
An additional 50-minute 'special' is included on 'Tactics & Strategy'.
WAR IN THE TRENCHES
Millions of volunteers on the Western Front in World War One, seeking the adventure of battle and foreign lands, soon discovered, instead, the misery of mud-filled trenches and death on a massive scale. Life would never be the same again.
This programme features archive footage and photographs, dramatised 'eye-witness' accounts, detailed descriptions of life for an everyday soldier, poetry and songs.
GALLIPOLI 1915 - LINE OF FIRE
The story of the ill-fated Allied campaign in the Dardanelles that was meant to knock Turkey out of World War One.
The brainchild of Winston Churchill, it was thought that an attack at Gallipoli would also open up vital supply lines to Russia and establish a third front against Austria-Hungary.
But it became a by-word for the bravery and sacrifice of the ANZAC troops from Australia and New Zealand during the ten months campaign that saw 36,000 Commonwealth troops lose their lives before the ignominious Allied withdrawal in January 1916.
The battlefields are presented in a unique animated environment with unrivalled graphics plus atmospheric recreations and analysis.
GALLIPOLI - the bloody peninsula
In a war infamous for its military disasters, there are few greater debacles than Gallipoli.
Ill-conceived, poorly planned and dogged by misfortune, the offensive which was supposed to knock Turkey out of the Great War soon subsided into a bloody stalemate.
This programme features fascinating rarely seen battle footage and haunting photographic images. With dramatised 'eye-witness' accounts, footage of the beaches and coves of Gallipoli today and expert comment and analysis, it tells the story of one of the crucial offensives of World War One.
The Somme 1916 - Hell on Earth
At 0730 hours on 1 July 1916 the young men of Kitchener's army went 'over the top' for the first time. By the end of the day almost 60,000 of them had become casualties.
Featuring newsreel footage, haunting photographs, atmospheric reconstructions, dramatised 'eye-witness' accounts and computer-generated mapping, the terrible story is narrated by Terry Molloy.
THE SOMME - FROM DEFEAT TO VICTORY
Marking the 90th anniversary of the Battle of the Somme, this brilliant BBC production reveals what it was really like to be an ordinary soldier going 'over the top' in 1916 and how British tactics changed to turn a terrible defeat into ultimate victory.
The darkest hours of British military history saw nearly 20,000 British soldiers killed on the first day of battle with another 30,000 wounded. Senior commanders were vilified and the Somme became synonymous with military incompetence. Nevertheless, it was on those blood soaked fields that the British Army finally began to understand how its German enemy could be defeated.
ALL QUIET ON THE WESTERN FRONT
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.
THE WAR POETS
Introduced and narrated by Brian Blessed, this DVD shows how the futility and madness of the First World War was the spur for some of the greatest and most moving poetry ever written.
'The War Poets' traces the development of the art of war poetry from Anglo Saxon times to the nightmare of the trenches.
With moving readings by Brian Blessed and with critique and analysis by Jon Stallworthy, reader of English Literature at Oxford University and a leading authority on war poetry, this DVD is recommended for KS4 and 'A' Level pupils.
THE NAZIS - A WARNING FROM HISTORY
This extraordinary 6-part documentary series from the BBC has been described as 'arguably one of the most important documentary series ever made.'
It explores how the Nazis came to power, how they ruled and - among other things - how a cultured nation could be responsible for such acts of inhumanity.
Through compelling interviews and archive film and records, the series paints an astonishing picture of Nazi rule. Contemporaries recall the true extent of Hitler's power; eye-witnesses describe the horrors perpetrated on the Eastern Front; specially shot film in Lithuania reveals the development of the 'Final Solution' and ordinary Germans shed new light on the relationship between the Party and the people.
Certificate: PG
BRITAIN AT WAR - Our Finest Hours
Three compelling programmes which convey the nature of Britain's task during the dark years of the Second World War and of the courage, determination and inventiveness that brought ultimate victory.
1. D-Day - Assault on Fortress Europe. (55 mins)
2. Battle of Britain - The Fight for the Sky. (60 mins)
3. Dunkirk - Battle for France. (60 mins)
HITLER'S WAR
A 3 x DVD boxed set which charts the course and some of the key elements of Hitler's insane dream of total supremacy throughout Europe.
Over three and a half hours including much spectacular and little seen archive film.
1. HITLER'S WAR: 1939-1945
Hitler took Paris after only 10 months of war - then launched his ultimate plan for an Eastern Front.
2. (a) THE ENIGMA OF THE SWASTICA
The origins of the Nazi symbol from a Buddhist sign of good fortune to an emblem of terror.
2. (b) THE EAGLE AND THE SWASTICA
Hitler declares war on America - which he later described as 'a tragedy, illogical and devoid of fundamental reality'.
3. (a) KILL HITLER
The secret aim of Germany's bravest generals - to kill Hitler - finalle fails.
3. (b) HITLER'S SECRET WEAPONS
German space-age V2 rockets had only a small conventional warhead. Was something more sinister planned?
PROPAGANDA
Propaganda and the war of words played a vital role in both the success and failures of World War 2.
Joseph Goebbels honed the art of mass communication until, in the early days at least, it became one of Germany's most effective weapons.
This DVD gives rare examples of propaganda posters and campaigns. Chris Read and Robin Lenman - both of Warwick University - share insight into the huge part propaganda had to play during World War 2.
Narrated by Graham McTavish.
SECRET ARMIES - THE FRENCH RESISTANCE
By the time the German occupation of France had become a reality, resistance groups were already being formed.
Clandestine groups intent on disrupting and harrying the occupying force played no small role in bringing the Third Reich to an end. Sabotage, propaganda and espionage were just a few of the methods adopted by the heroic men and women of the French Resistance.
Their story is told through eye-witness accounts and rare archive footage under the following headings:
The Fall of Paris
Clandestine Publications
The CNR
Resistance Groups Loyalty
The Maquis Uprisings.
Certificate E (exempt)
SECRET ARMIES - RESISTING FROM WITHIN
Far from being willing participants in the Wehrmacht's march across Europe, many Germans openly or covertly opposed the Nazi regime.
Religious leaders, students and even some of his own generals conspired against Hitler through anti-Nazi material, sabotage and several unsuccessful assassination attempts.
The story is told through rare archive footage and reconstructions in the following chapters:
Germany's economy collapses
Nazi policy conflicts
Growing resistance
Assassination attempt
Trescow persists.
Category E (exempt)
PARTISANS
Hidden in territories held by the Nazis were forces that inspired a greater level of fear in the individual invader than any other. These were the Partisans, organised civillian groups who fought military actions, campaigns of sabotage, disruption, espionage and protest.
This DVD looks at the French Resistance, amongst others, and asks searching questions while seeking to segregate fact from fiction.
Klaus Schmider of Sandhurst Military Academy, testimony from WW2 veterans, maps and graphics combine to show a side of the war that was hugely successful but resulted in savage reprisals.
REMEMBERING THE HOME GUARD
When Hitler prepared to invade Britain in 1940, the newly formed Home Guard - many of whom saw action in the Great War - were once again prepared to fight and die for their country.
Ian Lavender narrates the story - a respectful tribute to the part-time army of over a million men trained to a professional standard. It is told through archive recordings, stills, personal reminiscences and (inevitably) the odd clip from the tv series 'Dad's Army'.
Category E (exempt)
D-DAY to VE DAY
The last act of the drama.. Hitler's Third Reich implodes as the Allies push the Nazis to their final destruction. Three DVDs giving an extraordinary overview of the final push to overwhelm Hitler featuring wartime newsreels seen throughout the world.
1. From D-Day to Paris
'Operation Overlord' - the greatest invasion ever by sea and air. (50 mins)
2. From Paris to the Rhine
The German Reich in turmoil. Invasion forces ane now counted in their millions. (55 mins)
3. From the Rhine to Victory
The Germans retreat as the net tightens around the once proud Reich. (55 mins)
DOWNFALL
Berlin 1945 - the final days of the Second World War as recorded in the diaries of Hitler's private secretary, Traudl Junge, while barricaded with him and his closest confidants in the secret bunker.
A gripping insight into Hitler's madness and desperation as the Russian army closes in.
An extraordinary film with German dialogue and English sub-titles. Certificate 15.
OUT OF THE ASHES
The true story of a doctor who became a prisoner and a prisoner who became a survivor.
This Emmy Award winning film tells the story of Dr Gisella Perl who, whilst in Auschwitz, was forced to work with the notorious Nazi Dr Joseph Mengele.
After the war, when emigrating to the USA, an important moral and ethical question had to be answered. In a personal trial of conscience Gisella had to confront the question of just what had she done in order to survive?
A rivetting film starring Beau Bridges and Christine Lahti.
Certificate 15.
PLEASE NOTE:
Before ordering this item please check with us for availability.
WORLD WAR II - Hiroshima & Nagasaki
The tragic story of the atomic bombing of these two Japanese cities in 1945 resulting in the death of half a million people. An important hour-long documentary in black & white.
HIROSHIMA
A dramatic portrait of the political, moral and human costs of the decision to drop atomic bombs on Japan in 1945.
The action switches between Churchill (Timothy West), Trueman (Kenneth Welsh) and Hirohito (Umewaka) to tell the story of the men and women whose lives and careers would be forever changed by the ending of the war in such devastating fashion.
Certificate 12.
JUDGEMENT AT NUREMBERG
A powerful dramatisation of the War Crimes trials in Nuremberg at the end of World War II.
Stanley Kramer directs an excellent cast in this gripping and revealing drama feature.
Starring Spencer Tracey, Burt Lancaster, Richard Widmark, Marlene Dietrich and Maximilian Schell.
Certificate PG.
INTO THE ARMS OF STRANGERS
Just prior to World War II, an extraordinary rescue operation aided the youngest victims of Nazi terror. Ten thousand Jewish and other children were transported from German-held lands to foster homes and hostels in Great Britain.
Some built new family ties. Some endured the blitz. Some, amazingly, found ways to liberate their own parents from Hitler's tyrrany. All have extraordinary stories to tell.
This Oscar-winning documentary, narrated by Judi Dench, is filled with rare archival footage and gripping remembrances by the child survivors, rescuers and parents of the heroic Kindertransport.
It is a most valuable historical record of an inspiring phenomenon and will be of special interest to all who study - or take an interest in - 20th century history, the holocaust or religious persecution.
The DVD also includes an interview with Lord Richard Attenborough, whose parents took two girls from the Kindertransport into their family.
ANNE FRANK
Ben Kingsley and Hannah Taylor Gordon star in the gripping drama of one of the most celebrated young women of the 20th century during the Nazi holocaust..
Anne Frank goes beyond the story so well known through her diaries, painting a true portrait of her both before and after she went into hiding. A deeply moving and thought-provoking experience.
Certificate 12.
See also: Anne Frank Remembered
SCHINDLER'S LIST
Steven Spielberg won seven Oscars and seven BAFTA awards, including Best Picture and Best Director for this masterpiece. It tells the story of Oscar Schindler, a member of the Nazi party, womaniser and war profiteer, who saved the lives of over 1100 Jews during the Holocaust. It is the triumph of one man who made a difference. It stars Liam Neeson, Ben Kingsley and Ralph Fiennes in a film experience you will never forget.
The DVD also includes two bonus films:
'Voices from the List' - featuring personal eye witness experiences,
and 'The Shoah Foundation Story' - a behind the scenes look, with Steven Spielberg, at the organisation which records and archives the testimonies of survivors and witnesses of the Holocaust.
Certificate 15.
HOLOCAUST - THE YELLOW STAR
The Persecution of the Jews in Europe: 1933-1945.
This 'Oscar' nominated documentary follows the plight of Europe's Jews during the terrifying period from 1933 until the final defeat of the Third Reich.
It contains scenes of a violent and disturbing nature and is not recommended for showing to pupils below KS4.
HOLOCAUST - THE LIBERATION OF AUSCHWITZ
An extraordinary and deeply moving programme using footage recorded by a Soviet film crew during January and February 1945 - most of which has not previously been seen in the West.
In order to presenve the original character of the material, shot by a film unit attached to the 1st Ukranian Front, it has been left largely unedited, emphasising the truly shocking nature of the crimes recorded.
Captain Alexander Vorontsov, a member of the camera crew, describes the emotions experienced by himself and his colleagues as they witnessed the appalling scenes at Hitler's notorious death camp.
An important historical documentary record which includes, of necessity, scenes of a deeply disturbing nature. This film is recommended only for showing to pupils at KS4 and above - with teacher discretion.
AUSCHWITZ - The Nazis and the Final Solution
The definitive screen history of the evolution of Auschwitz, how it fitted into the Nazis' plan for the conquest of the East and how scarcely a country in Europe was untouched by its existence.
This brilliant BBC series reveals how and why the Nazis did what they did.
Through rare archive footage, dramatic reconstructions of key decision-making moments and major computer representations, the reality of life in the camp is exposed.
Ground-breaking interviews with witnesses, political prisoners and former SS members shed light on the mentality of the perpetrators and lay bare the harsh moral choices of all those involved.
Certificate 12.
HOLOCAUST - The Untold Story
Three DVDs which look at the rationale and development of the hideous Nazi policy towards Jewish people and other ethnic minorities.
GHETTO THERESIENSTADT:
Theresienstadt looked to be a peaceful 'Reich home for the aged'. The reality was very different. (72 minutes.)
THE YELLOW STAR:
An Oscar-nominated documentary showing the plight of Europe's Jews from 1933-1945. (84 minutes.)
MAJDANEK:
Here, the Nazis experimented with the deadly gas Zyklon B on Jews and non-Jews alike. (61 minutes.)
HOLOCAUST - The Inside Story
Six programmes from the second world war, depicting Hitler’s persecution of the Jewish race throughout Europe and his treatment of prisoners during the horrific events of the Holocaust.
Containing much previously unseen footage, the programmes cover the period from 1933 up to the final defeat of Germany in 1945.
With the liberation of the concentration, transit and death camps, the true extent of the Nazi contempt for human life emerged to shock the world.
The six documentaries are:
The Liberation of Auschwitz (54 mins)
Dachau & Sachsenhausen (58 mins)
Ghetto Theresienstadt (72 mins)
The Yellow Star (84 mins)
Ravensbruck (61 mins)
Majdanek (61 mins)
They are all described in the series 'Holocaust: The Untold Story' and 'Holocaust: The Shame of a Nation.'
HOLOCAUST - The Shame of a Nation
Three boxed DVDs telling the story of the German concentration camps and how they were perceived to be the final solution to the 'Jewish problem'.
The Liberation of Auschwitz
This programme features film shot in 1945 by a Soviet film unit and includes the recollections of members of the crew. (54 mins)
Dachau & Sachsenhausen
As Hitler sought answers to his 'Jewish Problem', Heinrich Himmler built death camps throughout Europe. When Dachau and Sachsenhausen were liberated in 1945, the true extent of their horror was revealed. (58 mins)
Ravensbruck & Buchenwald
Women from over 20 countries were held at Ravensbruck, maltreated, humiliated and tortured. At Buchenwald, inmates from 35 countries were held, of whom over 50,000 were killed. (61 mins)
THE SUFFRAGETTES
The Story of Emmeline Pankhurst.
Using dramatised 'eye-witness' accounts, period imagery and atmospheric reconstructions, this DVD illustrates and explains the struggle for women to gain the right to vote.
At the turn of the century, Mrs Pankhurst and other prominent leaders of the WSPU were ridiculed, imprisoned and force-fed because of their protests and refusal to give up their claim. Some even paid with their lives.
Narrated by Louise Papillon and Simon Kirk.
THE RUSSIAN REVOLUTION - IN COLOUR
The extraordinary story of how an entire society was destroyed and replaced with one of the biggest and most radical social experiments ever seen.
After Nicholas II was forced to abdicate Lenin, helped by sailors from the naval base at Kronstadt, swept aside the Provisional Government in a second revolution that effectively gave power to his Bolshevik Party. Forcing the closure of the democratic assembly, he found himself opposed by much of the Russian electorate - with the men from Kronstadt caught in the middle.
Nevertheless, the sailors sided with Lenin in two years of terrible Civil War. But in 1921, with Lenin growing increasingly brutal and authoritarian, killing thousands of his rivals, the sailors called for a return of full political freedoms.
Seeing this as a direct threat, Lenin sent the Red Army to attack the naval base at Kronstadt. Across the frozen Gulf of Finland the former allies were to face each other in a battle to decide the future direction of Russia.
Viewers should be aware that these programmes include scenes that some may find distressing.
SOVIET PROPAGANDA
From the early days of the Revolution to the final days of the Cold War, the Communist party were experts in propaganda art.
Using sophisticated animation techniques, the Soviet Communists battled for the hearts and minds of the Russian people in their struggle against perceived foreign aggressors. Their satirical characterisation of the Nazi invaders and American imperialists were masterpieces of propaganda art that entertained and influenced Soviet culture.
This collection of animated propaganda was recently recovered from Russia's television archives and for the first time in many decades we can now see how the Soviets portrayed the West.
A 2-disc set.
Exempt from Classification.
THE SPANISH CIVIL WAR
An intriguing account of a dark and divided period of Spanish history - the struggle between the supporters and opponents of the Spanish Second Republic.
Narrated by Michael Leighton, 'The Spanish Civil War' features fascinating archival and location footage, dramatised 'eye-witness' accounts, interviews with members of the International Brigade plus expert analysis and interpretation, providing the historical and political background to the war.
INDIA - The Struggle for Independence
A 30-minute introduction to the complex mix of political, historical, cultural and military issues which have combined to make up the history of India.
Also included on this DVD is a 30-minute programme telling the story of Hernando Cortez, the 16th century Spanish conquistador who conquered the Aztec empire and won Mexico for Spain.
GANDHI
An epic masterpiece tracing the history of an extraordinary man.
With an all star cast and an Oscar winning performance by Ben Kingsley, Richard Attenborough's film presents a gripping cinematic experience.
Also starring: Edward Fox, Candice Bergen, John Gielgud, Trevor Howard, John Mills and Martin Sheen.
This 2-disc DVD presentation includes 12 mini-features covering various aspects of the production, archive material including original newsreel footage, cinema trailer, photo montage, collector's cards and a Special Edition booklet.
Certificate PG
Dr MARTIN LUTHER KING - A HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE
The authorised biography of the celebrated leader of the 1960's Civil Rights Movement in the USA. Using rare and largely unseen film footage and photographs, this DVD explores how Dr King's ideas, beliefs and methods evolved in the face of a rapidly changing culture.
An important programme, relevant for all interested in - or studying - a key moment in the history of the USA, Civil Rights, non-violent protest and the power of the individual to effect change within a democratic society.
I HAVE A DREAM
Rare historic recordings of extracts from three celebrated speeches by Dr Martin Luther King Jnr from his civil rights campaign - plus the moving eulogy given by Senator Robert Kennedy upon receiving the news of King's assassination.
The speeches:
1) Lincoln Memorial, Washington DC - 28 August 1963
2) Brown Chapel, Selma, Alabama - 8 March 1965
3) His final speech - 3 April 1968
4) Robert F Kennedy's eulogy - 4 April 1968
NEW RELEASE
THE SIX DAY WAR
The story of the Arab-Israeli War of 1967, the echoes of which are still heard today in the Middle East.
In May of that year, Egypt blocked the Tiran Straights to Israeli shipping. and began a huge military build up in the Sinai Peninsula. At the same time Jordan allowed Iraqi troops to cross her borders.
Israel responded swifty to what she saw as a threat to her security with devastating pre-emptive air strikes against the Egyptian air force. Jordanian and Syrian attacks were halted swiftly and within six days Israel had captured East Jerusalem, the Golan Heights, the West Bank and Sinai itself.
Although Sinai was returned in 1979 - and territorial concessions have since been made to the Palestinians - other territories are still under Israeli occupation and remain to this day as a threat to peace in the region.
Atmospheric recreations, archive footage and graphics combined with authoritative comments by historians from the Royal Military Academy at Sandhurst, combine to demonstrate and explain the key political and military dimensions of these monumental events.
Exempt from Classification.
CRY THE BELOVED COUNTRY
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.
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.
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 against de Klerk's Government and 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)
THE FALKLANDS WAR - A Military History
Twenty five years on - a powerful military history of a war that cost more than a thousand lives.
Against extraordinary odds - and at very short notice - a British task force sailed thousands of miles to the South Atlantic. Outnumbered and in appalling weather they routed an Argentine army which had dug in and was well established.
Featuring remarkable archive footage, atmospheric battle reconstructions, 3D graphics plus memories and recollections of British and Argentine servicemen, this DVD also includes expert analysis and contributions from historians and serving personnel.
Scene selection with six chapters.
Produced with the cooperation of the MOD.
THE GULF WAR
In January 1991an international coalition force struck Iraq with devastating power. Five months earlier, Saddam Hussein had invaded Kuwait, completely underestimating the international response to his unprovoked aggression.
The awesome power of the allied response demolished the Iraqi infrastructure and defence systems - largely due to the use of the very latest military technology. Iraq was brought to its knees and Saddam's boast of inflicting the 'mother of all battles' on the allies proved groundless as his forces were finally caught in the open on the road to Basra.
Archive footage and animated recreations vividly retell and explain the events of the first Gulf War.
Exempt from Classification.
WOMEN AT WAR - SPIES AND ANGELS
Kate Adie recounts the stories of Mati Hari, Florence Nightingale, Edith Cavell and Mabel Stobart, with analysis and comments from a variety of expert contributors.
NAPOLEON
Napoleon's great adventure and final downfall is chronicled in these three documentary programmes presented in a 3xDVD boxed set.
With dramatised reconstructions, 'eye-witness' accounts, expert analysis and feature file excerpts, this collection gives a unique view of a man - and a period - that would change Europe forever.
1) AUSTERLITZ 1805
Napoleon's greatest victory. (55 mins)
2) NAPOLEON 1812
The world's largest army is defeated by Russian guile and bitter cold. (60 mins)
3) THE BATTLE OF WATERLOO 1815
A dream destroyed, a continent reprieved. (55 mins)
THE NAPOLEONIC WARS
Superbly filmed reconstructions and re-enactments, period imagery and analysis help to explain the rise and fall of this enigmatic French hero.
This DVD tells the powerful story of a man who dominated an era of European history. Ruthless and despotic, yet an acknowledged military genius, we follow him from his early days to his final defeat at Waterloo.
A compelling and captivating story.
THE BATTLE OF TRAFALGAR
One of the most momentous days in naval history is graphically described and generously illustrated with sequences from the films I REMEMBER NELSON and HMS DEFIANT - two of the most accurate reconstructions of the age of sail ever filmed. With dramatised and re-enacted accounts shot on board HMS Victory, 3D graphic images, superb contemporary images and a story line narrated by Robert Powell, this programme is a must for anyone studying Nelson, Bonaparte or historic naval warfare.
THE BATTLE OF WATERLOO
A handful of fateful decisions and some desperate actions was all it took to destroy the dreams of Napoleon and change the face of Europe forever.
Using stunning excerpts from major feature films, authentic reconstructions, re-enactments and dramatised 'eye witness' accounts, this spectacular DVD tells the story of the final thunderous encounter of the Napoleonic era - and chronicles one of the turning points of world history.
With expert analysis by Dr David Chandler and commentary by Robert Powell.
QUEEN VICTORIA: Her Imperial Majesty
The remarkable story of Britain's longest reigning monarch who gave her name to an entire era.
History records her blissfully happy marriage to Prince Albert and her reclusive lifestyle following his death.
But Victorian Britain saw massive socio-economic change while the Queen's redcoats conquered vast areas of the globe in the name - and for the glory - of her empire.
Using atmospheric recreations, period imagery, archive footage and expert analysis, this informative and entertaining programme paints an intriguing portrait of a fascinating woman and a memorable time in British history.
Exempt from Classification.
VICTORIA and ALBERT
Victoria was just 18 when she came to the throne. Stubborn and fiercely independent, she rejected her manipulative and greedy mother and declared that she might never marry.
However, when she met the handsosme German Prince Albert she fell in love and a marriage of convenience was transformed into a lifelong passion.
For Albert, the marriage was initially one of duty. However, as their relationship developed, the prince grew to admire and love Victoria and together they had nine children. Excluded from holding any official political position, Albert worked hard to gain both the respect of the young Queen and her subjects and, by the time of his death, had became King in everything but name.
Starring Victoria Hamilton and Jonathan Firth in the title roles with Peter Ustinov as William IV. Also starring Nigel Hawthorne, David Suchet, Diana Rigg, Jonathan Pryce and Penelope Wilton.
Certificate PG.
LIFE IN VICTORIAN BRITAIN
Using dramatised readings, and period imagery, this DVD presents a view of the time when the British Empire was at its zenith - but also when conditions for many were at their lowest.
It was a period during which Britain gave birth to an Empire, passed through an Industrial Revolution and saw great advances in medicine, transport and education.
But it was also a time when harsh working conditions and desperate poverty were commonplace in Oliver Twist's London and the fast growing industrial towns of heartland Britain.
BALACLAVA 1854 - THE CHARGE OF THE LIGHT BRIGADE
Featuring special dramatised 'eye-witness' accounts and reconstructions, period imagery and 3D mapping techniques, this video is a dramatic record of the notorious Charge of the Light Brigade.
It also features extensive footage from the Tony Richardson film of the same title to illustrate the ebb and flow of the fighting during a truly momentous day in the history of warfare.
The narration is by Brian Blessed.
THE AMERICAN CIVIL WAR
From the first shots at Fort Sumter to the emotional Confederate surrender at Appomattox Courthouse, this programme tells the story of the conflict which scarred the soul of a nation.
It features superb battle reconstructions, depictions of army life, dramatised 'eye-witness' accounts, period photographs and images - plus expert analysis.
In the most tragic episode of American history, in which over 600,000 troops were killed, the names of Gettysburg, Shilo, Cold Harbor and Fredericksburg remain burned deep in the American psyche.
Narrated by Robert Powell.
WOMEN AT WAR - SPIES AND ANGELS
Kate Adie recounts the stories of Mati Hari, Florence Nightingale, Edith Cavell and Mabel Stobart, with analysis and comments from a variety of expert contributors.
BONNIE PRINCE CHARLIE
Born in exile and raised at the Stuart court in Rome, Charles Edward Stuart was the grandson of the deposed Stuart King James.
His attempt to raise a rebellion of the Scottish clans and to march on London to re-establish his father as king was initially successful in that he swiftly took control of Scotland. However, his questionable leadership and rash spirit of adventure led to bitter and bloody defeat at the hands of the Duke of Cumberland.
Finally making it back to France, his hour had passed and he declined into obscurity.
Using dramatic reconstructions and with expert analysis, this offers a most useful overview of a dramatic and tragic era in Scottish history.
Exempt from Classification.
THE GUNPOWDER PLOT
The murder of newly crowned James I was plotted in 1605 by a group of high-born soldiers of fortune, with Guy Fawkes being entrusted to light the fuse in the cellar of the House of Commons.
After an eleventh hour tip-off, the plotters were discovered and hanged. Their actions guaranteed them a place in the annals of history - an event remembered each year on 5th November.
Narrated by Peter Twist.
THE ENGLISH CIVIL WARS
The most tragic and dramatic chapter in English history is recorded in this spectacular and entertaining DVD.
It features superb re-enactments, reconstructions, dramatised 'eye-witness' accounts, delightful period imagery and the major personalities and battles of the war. Also included are 3D computer graphics and analysis from leading historians.
Narrated by Robert Powell, it recounts a time of bitterness and hatred, a war pitcing father against son, brother against brother in the bloody battle for the soul of the nation.
FIRE & FEVER
THE GREAT PLAGUE (1665) and THE GREAT FIRE (1666)
Two great disasters rocked London to its very foundations in less than a year. Hardly had the victims of the Great Plague been buried when, in 1666, the Great Fire destroyed over 80% of the city. In four devastating days over 100,000 Londoners became homeless.
Contemporary illustrations and dramatic 'eye-witness' accounts help to chart the climactic events narrated by Peter Twist.
HENRY VIII
Ray Winstone brings history's most beguiling monarch to life in this story of Henry VIII, revealing the destruction Henry often left in his wake during his extraordinary 38-year reign.
From the moment Henry Tudor casts aside his faithful wife Catherine of Aragon for the bewitching and determined Anne Boleyn (Helena Bonham Carter) he sets himself on course for a series of disatrous marriages. Violent conflict, both within the population and the church, left England reeling while its complex and charismatic king turned from handsome playboy into a bitter invalid desperate for a son and heir to the throne.
Winner of the Emmy Award in the Best TV Movie/Mini-Series category.
A brilliant cast also includes Joss Ackland, David Suchet, Charles Dance, Sean Bean and Assumpta Serna. Directed by Pete Travis.
This DVD also includes a 69-minute documentary which takes us behind the scenes, meeting key crew and cast members.
Certificate 12.
HENRY VIII and his SIX WIVES
In a powerful portrayal of England's most infamous king, Keith Michell re-creates the role he so successfully played in the celebrated BBC series The Six Wives of Henry VIII.
From his deathbed Henry looks back over his eventful life and his six marriages.
Also starring Donald Pleasance, Charlotte Rampling, Jane Asher, Lynne Frederick, Frances Cuka, Barbara Leigh-Hunt, Jenny Boss, Michael Gough, Brian Blessed, Bernard Hepton and Garfield Morgan.
Certificate PG.
GOD'S OUTLAW
William Tyndale's mission was to translate the Bible into the common tongue from the original Greek and Hebrew. But this was illegal and, in fear for his life, he fled to Europe pursued by agents of Henry VIII.
Nevertheless, his translation was mass-produced on the newly invented printing presses and smuggled into England. Eventually, betrayed by a friend, he was arrested, tried and executed.
This award-winning production gives an absorbing insight into the intrigues of Henry's court, the fears and restrictive practices of the Church and the courage of a man who was to give to the English language - as well as the Church - a new dignity and dimension.
Tyndale's eloquent translation was a priceless gift to all English speaking peoples and a fitting memorial to his courage and genius.
The distinguished cast is led by Roger Rees as William Tyndale with Keith Baron as Henry VIII, Oona Kirsch as Anne Boleyn, Willoughby Goddard as Cardinal Wolsey and Bernard Archard as Sir Thomas More.
A Grenville production with Channel Four, directed by Tony Tew.
'A gripping tale, beautifully told' (Daily Mail)
Please direct trade orders to CLC Wholesale.
A 26-minute version is available in VHS format, with an introduction and links by Dr Ken Curtis. The DVD contains both the full length and abridged versions.
See also the book of the same title by Brian Edwards (B055), the Tyndale edition of Christian History Magazine (M009) and Tyndale's Old and New Testaments from Yale University Press (B013 / B014 / B141).
MARY QUEEN OF SCOTS
See 'Gunpowder,Treason & Plot' in the 17th Century History section.
THE GREAT ADVENTURERS
A DVD boxed set on three 15th/16th century explorers who discovered the Americas and laid the ground for British and European conquest and exploitation.
1) Christopher Columbus
The story of how Columbus discovered the New World is one of disappointment, exploitation, gold-fever and courage. Expert analysis, extensive period imagery, and dramatised re-enactments tell the story of one of the greatest discoveries in history. (48 mins)
2) Sir Francis Drake
A large thorn in the Spanish side, Sir Francis Drake proved an illusive foe. Betrayed by them at an early age, his life mission was to cause them havoc, culminating in the destruction of the Armada in 1588. Including footage shot on a seagoing replica of the Golden Hind. (55 mins)
3) Sir Walter Raleigh
Like Drake, Raleigh had a contempt for the Spanish but unlike him, he found himself deeply embroiled in court and royal politics. Nevertheless, he travelled to South America repeatedly in a bid for colonisation, trade, untold riches and fame. Dramatised 'eye-witness' accounts, reconstructions, and period imagery combine to tell the story of one of England's greatest heroes. (55 mins)
THE SPANISH ARMADA
Through the use of computer generated imagery and dramatic re-enactment, this documentary provides an historical insight into the 1588 Spanish Armada.
From the BBC series 'Battlefield Britain' - presented by father and son team Dan and Peter Snow - which delves into the world of British Military history uncovering weapons tactics and the personalities behind the battles.
ELIZABETH I
Helen Mirren stars as the 'Virgin Queen' in this Channel 4 drama written by novelist Nigel Williams.
Elizabeth I looks beyond the myth at the woman behind the crown. The woman subjected to a humiliating examination when contemplating marrying a French Prince; the woman who ran a country and yet who wasn't allowed to marry the man she loved; the woman who, in her mid-fifties, conducted a passionate affair with a man half her age whose arrogance eventually led him to mount a desperate challenge for her throne.
Illuminating the grimy underbelly behind the opulence and formality of the English court, this drama tells the intimate story of Britain's most famous Queen.
Also starring Jeremy Irons, Barbara Flynn, Ian McDiamid and Hugh Dancy.
Certificate 15
AGINCOURT 1415 - THE TRIUMPH OF THE LONGBOW
25th October 1415 - Agincourt, France - Daybreak.
30,000 French troops watch a small English force with whom they are about to do battle. The French expect a swift and comprehensive victory but, as a day of great savagery unfolds, it is the English under their charismatic King Henry V who gains a sweeping victory.
Superb accurate reconstruction of the battle, dramatised 'eye-witness' accounts taken from contemporary records, state-of-the-art mapping techniques, period imagery and expert analysis provide an informative and entertaining account of this epic battle.
Narrated by Brian Blessed.
THE WARS OF THE ROSES
The Fifteenth century saw the birth of a major new ruling dynasty - the Tudors.
England had endured the turmoil of a violent struggle for power between the Houses of York and Lancaster during what came to be known (perhaps euphemistically) as the Wars of the Roses. Its bloody climax, at Bosworth Field in 1485, brought victory for Henry VII, the death of Richard III and the commencement of a line of Tudor monarchs.
Narrated by Brian Blessed, this DVD features spectacular battle reconstructions, dramatised re-enactments and superb computer graphics to provide a memorable account of a turbulent period of English history.
RICHARD THE LIONHEART
An outstanding and courageous soldier, Richard I led his army on a holy quest - the savage campaign known as the Crusades.
Because of this - and the time spent defending his lands in France - he spent only a few months of his ten year reign in England, but these years were among the most eventful and colourful in its history.
Featuring extensive authentic reconstructions and dramatised 'eye-witness' reports, this is the story of a natural soldier and mighty English king.
Narrated by Terry Molloy.
Exempt from Classification
THE CRUSADES - KNIGHTS OF CHRIST
The Story of the Holy Wars.
For almost 200 years generations of knights from England and Western Europe battled to free the Holy Lands from the influence of Islam. Perhaps the most famous Crusader of all was Richard the Lionheart who in 1190 battled with the Emperor Saladin on the burning sands of Palestine.
This DVD features atmospheric reconstructions and spectacular computer effects, dramatic 'eye-witness' accounts and expert analysis.
Narrated by Michael Leighton.
JOAN OF ARC - Child of War, Soldier of God
During the Hundred Years War, as the English raided the French countryside in 1425, 13-year old Joan heard voices calling her to bring peace to war-ravaged France. By 17, she had convinced the leaders to grant her an army. Fearlessly leading from the front, she regained the city of Orleans and brought about the coronation of the French heir to the throne.
Once on the throne, the king feared that her popularity would outshine his own. Abandoned and betrayed, Joan was captured by the English, tried by the church for heresy and burnt at the stake.
A few years later, she was declared innocent of the heresy for which she died. Five centuries later the Roman Catholic Church declared her a saint.
Beautifully made, and with some excellent re-enactments, this film offers valuable insight into France's greatest historical martyr.
NEW RELEASE
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.
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.
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.
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)
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)
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
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.
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
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.
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.
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 (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.
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
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.
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. Strictly subject to availability.
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 - please enquire.
Dylan Thomas - Under Milk Wood
Richard Burton, Elizabeth Taylor and Peter O'Toole star in this screen adaptation of Dylan Thomas' classic play - a celebration of life and death in a small Welsh harbour village on a single spring day.
Certificate 15.
Dylan Thomas - Under Milk Wood (Animated)
Richard Burton narrates this superbly animated version of Dylan Thomas' celebrated original radio play.
A sensitive and sometimes comic look at Welsh life, it tells of the lives of a number of colourful characters living in a small Welsh town seen through the eyes of a stranger who is wandering through.
Certificate PG
Brian Clark - Whose life is it anyway?
Richard Dreyfuss and John Cassavetes star in this adaptation of Brian Clark's play.
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 - 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.
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.
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.
Arthur Miller - All My Sons
Edward G. Robinson and Burt Lancaster star in this celebrated Arthur Miller black and white classic.
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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).
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
The Withered Arm
See 'Wessex Tales' - D647 - six of Hardy's stories from BBC Television.
WESSEX TALES
Six Thomas Hardy tales of witchery, revenge, thwarted passion, costly ambition, buried desire madness and betrayal find their participants entrapped repeatedly by fate - always at liberty to make choices, but inevitably confronted by their destiny.
Starring Bilie Whitelaw, Jane Asher, John Hurt, David Troughton, Claire Bloom, Ben Cross and Ben Kingsley, these tales, dramatised and produced by the BBC feature the following titles:
The Withered Arm
Fellow Townsmen
A Tragedy of Two Ambitions
An Imaginative Woman
The Melancholy Hussar
Barbara of the House of Grebe.
Contained on two discs.
Certificate 12.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
THE WOMAN IN BLACK - Susan Hill
A routine legal assignment turns into a horrific nightmare for a young solicitor in this spine-chilling Victorian ghost story. Based on Susan Hill's novel, it stars Adrian Rawlins and Bernard Hepton with Pauline Moran and Clare Holman.
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
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
Enduring Love - Ian McEwan
A film adaptation of the novel by Ian McEwan, starring Daniel Craig and Samantha Morton with Alexandra Aitken and Susan Lynch.
TOUCHING THE VOID - Joe Simpson
A re-enactment of the dramatic life and death mountaineering ordeal faced by Joe Simpson and his climbing companion Simon Yates. Based on the book of the same name by Joe Simpson.
ANIMAL FARM
George Orwell's classic novel is brought stunningly to the screen using a creative mixture of live action and digital animation.
Starring Pete Postlethwaite and the voices of Patrick Stewart, Peter Ustinov, Paul Scofield, Julia Ormond and Ian Holm, this is a creditable version of the original.
Certificate PG
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.
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.
TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD - 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.
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.
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
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.
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 - 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
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.
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)
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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’.
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.
Free at Last
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)
Written by R.J.Owen
In the Streets of Calcutta
The story of Mother Teresa and her work among the destitute and dying in Calcutta.
See also 'Mother Teresa: Woman of Compassion' and 'Mother Teresa and her World' - Faith In Action (DVD Section)
Written by Audrey Constant.
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.
City of Darkness
The story of 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.
Written by Geoffrey Hanks.
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.
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.
God of Surprises
by Andrew Ahmed and Vanessa Gray
The life of Desmond Tutu and his non-violent struggle against apartheid in South Africa.
Freedom Now!
The story of how Cecilia Flores-Oebanda and others are working to end forms of slavery in today's world - such as child labour and people-trafficking.
A teacher's resource CD-ROM is available to accompany this book. For more information type SET ALL FREE into the Quick Search facility at the top of this page,
Son of Africa
The story of Olaudah Equiano and the campaign against the slave trade, with vivid accounts of the suffering experienced by Olaudah and other enslaved Africans.
Later, as a free man, he settled in England and played a key role in the campaign against slavery alongside activists such as Thomas Clarkson and William Wilberforce.
A teacher's resource CD-ROM is available to accompany this book. For more information type SET ALL FREE into the Quick Search facility at the top of this page.
Fighting for Freedom
The story of Sam Sharpe, Nat Turner and John Brown and their struggle against slavery. Two were descended from enslaved Africans, the other was white.
This book tells how willingly, or unwillingly, each became involved in violent protest and what happened as a result.
A teacher's resource CD-ROM is available to accompany this book. For more information type SET ALL FREE into the Quick Search facility at the top of this page,
Set All Free
Teacher's Resource to accompany the three Faith in Action books on slavery and the fight to eradicate it: 'Son of Africa', 'Fighting for Freedom' and 'Freedom Now!'
This CD-ROM is a treasure trove of facts, images, teaching ideas, timelines, curriculum links and assembly outlines for use with these excellent books on the slave trade - then and now - and the battle for its abolition. Everything needed for an in-depth project.
Ideal - and highly recommended - for KS3 and into KS4.
SPECIAL OFFER:
This CD-ROM, together with a copy of each of the three books, purchased individually, would cost £37.84p. Our price is £31.99p.
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.
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)
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.
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?
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.
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 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+
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
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.
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.
Jesus
Jesus of Nazareth: His Life and Times.
St Paul
St Paul.
St Augustine
St Augustine.
St Francis of Assisi
St Francis of Assisi.
John Wycliffe
This edition was published to accompany the Grenville film: 'John Wycliffe - The Morning Star'. It tells the story of how this simple and priestly Oxford scholar fought against all the odds to enable the English people to have a Bible in their own language.
Translated from the Latin Vulgate Bible - rather than the original Greek and Hebrew sources - each Wycliffe Bible was then lovingly copied by hand.
William Tyndale
Published to accompany the celebrated film 'God's Outlaw' this issue describes and celebrates the extraordinary - and costly - achievement of William Tyndale in translating the New Testament and much of the Old Testament into English. His great hope was that even the common ploughboy should be able to read the Scriptures in a language he could understand.
How We Got The Bible
.
Martin Luther: The Early Years
Martin Luther: The Early Years.
Martin Luther: The Later Years
Martin Luther: The Later Years.
John Calvin
The story of the French Humanist lawyer who became a leading light in the Protestant Reformation. Persecution in his homeland led to his flight to Basel in Switzerland and later to Geneva where he helped reform the Church there.
Thomas Cranmer
Thomas Cranmer (1489 - 1556) was Archbishop of Canterbury during the reigns of Henry VIII and Edward VI. He was burned at the stake for the heresy of Protestantism under Queen Mary.
During Edward's reign, Cranmer introduced the Book of Common Prayer, which is still in use today, and in general, led the Church of England in a more protestant direction.
Zwingli
Ulrich Zwingli was a student under Erasmus at Basel University and was to become the leader of the Swiss Reformation. Conducting much of his pastoral and preaching ministry at the Zurich Grossmunster, he was killed in the Battle of Kappel in 1531.
The Anabaptists
The Anabaptists.
John Hus
John Hus.
The Crusades
.
William Wilberforce
.
Eastern Orthodoxy
The intriguing story of the Eastern Orthodox Churches.
William Carey
.
John Wesley
John Wesley and the rise of Methodism.
Dietrich Bonhoeffer
The German theologian who paid the ultimate price for his opposition to Adolf Hitler.
The Persecution of the Early Church
The new faith spreads like wildfire - but the cost is high.
Columbus and Christianity
.
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