"Evelyn Waugh's novel Vile Bodies is whisked into a sprightly, if slight, little movie" by the directorial hand of Stephen Fry. This is a departure for the comedian, actor, and genial raconteur, who is easily the star attraction of the special features on this DVD.
Settle Down Children
As often observed on this site, there are few directors who can make for an interesting or pleasurable commentary. While Stephen Fry does not offer a searing insight into his artistic soul, he does make for a most agreeable listen. Like some fluffy audio duvet, Fry's tones soothe and envelop you, but beneath the velvet lurk some typically acute Fry observations. You may experience the odd sharp intake of breath, like when Fry discusses in plain terms the differences in professionalism between such notorious veteran hellraisers as Richard Harris and Peter O'Toole.
Who's Shane Davey?
Actually, Shane was a runner who's put his ambitions into play rather quicker than most. He filmed his experiences on the Bright Young Things for this 30-minute documentary. Certainly for those wanting a candid insight into the lack of glamour that is the British Film 'Industry', it should prove informative. As a look at the making of the film it's hit and miss, but Shane can congratulate himself on doing a better job than most Hollywood DVD documentaries manage with years of practice. Maybe we'll cling onto our industry after all?
EXTRA FEATURES
This DVD was reviewed on a JVC XV-N5 DVD player.