Barnaby Eaton-Jones
Bram Stoker's Dracula - A Documentary
When Bram Stoker first published his novel “Dracula” at the end of the 19th Century, few could have predicted the impact his literary vision would generate, especially the critics, who were far from receptive to his work. However, the readers of the day took Dracula to their hearts and delighted in the horror of the novel. And of course as the Hollywood movie industry developed, “Dracula” proved a perfect candidate for the silver screen. “Dracula” has become a classic icon of the horror industry, complete with swirling black cape and dripping fangs - thrilling and terrifying readers and moviegoers for more than a century, and all indications are that Dracula will continue to do so for all eternity. But how did this nightmare character ever materialize in the first place and who was responsible for releasing this voracious vampire into the waking dreams of the public at large? Find the answers to these questions and many more in a film that will take you on an exhilarating journey of discovery.
Laurel&Hardy: Hats Off (Collectors Edition)
There are few film stars who are genuinely loved by their audiences, but back in the days of the silent movie, a comedy duo enjoyed that from the very beginning. Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy, with their gentle mixture of slapstick and technical skill, brought laughter to millions through the 20th Century and are still continuing to generate laughter to this very day. Yet, like so many of the truly great Kings of Comedy, Laurel and Hardy often found it difficult to find laughter, peace, and contentment in their own lives and the story of the men behind the carefully constructed masks is both enlightening and entertaining. This program is a delightful celebration of the magic of Laurel and Hardy and a rare glimpse into the private lives of these two enigmatic men. From their earliest beginnings through to their final curtain calls, enjoy getting up close and personal with Stan and Ollie. It’s a relationship that started as a business arrangement and blossomed into one of the truest friendships Hollywood has ever known. Whether you’re young or simply young at heart, enjoy stepping back in time to discover the true story of Laurel and Hardy where fact will prove equally as fascinating as fiction.
H.G. Wells and the War of the Worlds: A Documentary
An invading alien race bent on conquering humanity. The fear of the unknown. Intelligent insects, apocalyptic musings, time travel, mutant half-breeds, invisibility formulas, and mad scientists—such is the rich fantasy world imagined by H.G. Wells. With this exciting program, explore the motivations, the societal pressures, and the inspirations behind some of Wells’ most popular works, including “The War of the Worlds.” Learn more about the man whose political and sexual views were just as every bit revolutionary as his fiction. When H.G. Wells began his literary career he both shocked and thrilled the world by exposing the flaws and hypocrisy of Victorian society with his futuristic thinking and alternate views. “The Time Machine” was his first major work, a tale that modern readers would consign to the genre of Science Fiction, and it was a phenomenal success. Rapidly followed by “The Island of Dr. Moreau”, “The Invisible Man”, and his most popular work of all—“The War of the Worlds” —H.G. Wells opened a door into the future that took his readers on a unique adventure far away from the social constraints of 19th Century England. This program offers a remarkable insight into the life and work of H.G. Wells, as the man himself proves to be as fascinating as his far-reaching imagination. It will also give the viewer plenty of opportunities to experience “The War of the Worlds” and explore the impact this truly exceptional piece of writing has made on every new generation to turn its pages.