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In 1956 the massively popular radio show "Hancock's Half Hour" transferred to the flourishing new BBC television service. Here, Tony Hancock, 'the lad himself', continued his role as East Cheam's antagonistic, socially aspirational misanthrope, as writers Galton and Simpson adapted his role for the small screen.
Contains five episodes and a bonus Christmas special.
Hancock's Half Hour - Volume Two
Hancock's Half Hour - Volume Three
Hancock's Half Hour - Volume Four
The Adventures of Merlin
Chuggington - That's the Ticket
The Young Ones - Series Two
Niu Sila
The Goodies - A Tasty Second Helping
Doctor Who - The Trial of a Time Lord
Marineland of New Zealand
Thomas and Friends - Carnival Capers
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Tony Hancock died in 1968, and as recently as this year (2005) in a poll to find the Comedian's comedian, Hancock was voted amongst the top 20 greatest comedy acts ever by fellow comedians and comedy insiders. This was over 35 years after his death. This is a testament to his comedy and the man's genius.
Though all these episodes were filmed almost 50 years ago, they are timeless; the humour transcends the years and is as funny now as they ever were which is indicative of the superb scripts written by Galton and Simpson and the comedic timing of Hancock. The scripts could be taken by any other comedian today, and would need no re-writing and they would not bore viewers, though I suspect that it was Hancock who was the main attraction with this series.
The episodes are filmed in glorious black and white and wonderful mono-sound (no fancy technology here), and because they were filmed half a century ago, one cannot expect the quality to be as good as something filmed recently, however, having said this, it does not in any way detract from the appeal of this release.
These episodes are clean, no bad language and suitable for children should they actually want to watch them, I think I was about 15 years old when I first watched them, and found them very funny then, I still find them funny now.
Tony Hancock is well known in the UK, I cannot say how well known he is in New Zealand, however, I feel anyone who appreciated English comedy (well, it is the best humour!) or just comedy in general, should buy this DVD and add it to their collection. I cannot rate Hancock highly enough.
The DVD is well presented, excellent value for money and very watchable, even on repeat viewing. This DVD is well worth the addition to anyone's collection.
Buy it now!
Guest comments...
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Hancock is indeed a comedy genius. Personally I prefer the radio series, but this is just as good. The supporting cast is excellent, and I highly reccomend this.
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