The Good Old Days was a popular BBC television light entertainment programme which ran from 1953 to 1983. It was performed at the Leeds City Varieties and recreated an authentic atmosphere of the Victorian–Edwardian music hall with songs and sketches of the era performed by present-day performers in the style of the original artistes. The audience dressed in period costume and joined in the singing, especially "Down at the Old Bull and Bush" which closed the show. The show was compered by Leonard Sachs. In the course of its run it featured about 2,000 performers.
In World War I, after a failed attack on a German position, a general orders three soldiers to be court-martialed for cowardice. Their commanding officer must defend them in a trial where the outcome seems predetermined. As the trial progresses, the true nature of the military and the toll it takes on its soldiers is revealed.
Stan & Ollie is a biographical comedy-drama set in the 1950s, based on the true story of the famous comedy duo, Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy. The film follows their reunion and final theatrical tour in Britain, showcasing their enduring friendship, betrayal, and the challenges they faced. It explores the comedic genius, the bonds they shared, and the impact they made on the world of comedy.
Set in Victorian England, "Year of the Rabbit" follows a bumbling police detective as he solves crimes and navigates the eccentricities of his fellow officers.
In 1880s London, a serial killer known as the Limehouse Golem is on the loose, leaving a trail of murders. Detective Inspector Kildare is assigned to the case and teams up with a young writer, Dan Leno, to solve the mystery. As they dig deeper, they uncover dark secrets and hidden motives, leading them to question everyone around them. With time running out, they must unravel the identity of the Golem before more lives are lost.
Jessie Wallace stars in this BBC drama based on the turbulent life and times of Marie Lloyd, known as the 'Queen of the Music Hall', who was famous at the turn of the 20th century not just for her performances on stage but also for her riotous behaviour off it. Lloyd's love life and outrageous conduct made her a target for the rising tabloid newspapers of the time. The film includes some of Lloyd's most famous songs, including 'My Old Man Said Follow the Van' and her theme song 'A Little of What You Fancy Does You Good'.
In 1910s London, a failing comedian befriends a depressed ballerina and helps her regain her confidence and love for dance. Together, they discover the healing power of friendship and art.
Tipping the Velvet follows the story of Nan Astley, a young woman who falls in love with a male impersonator and enters the exciting and sometimes dangerous world of Victorian music halls. As their relationship develops, Nan faces challenges and discovers her own identity and sexuality.
In 1950s Edinburgh, a taciturn magician uses his gift of illusion to win back his childhood love, who is now a high-heeled performer. As their paths cross on a ferry boat and in a theater stage, the magician's declining career and the changing of the times become apparent. With very little dialogue, this hand-drawn animated film explores themes of disillusionment, belief in magic, and the end of an era.
Oh! What a Lovely War is a satirical musical revue that tells the story of World War I through a series of comedic sketches, songs, and visual imagery. Set during the war, it explores themes of family relationships, soldiers on the front line, and the absurdity of war. The film incorporates historical events and figures, such as Czar Nicholas II and the Christmas Truce, to present a darkly comedic and anti-war narrative.
A look back at Charlie Chaplin's early life and career, from his rough childhood and music hall success in England to his early Hollywood days and the development of his enormously popular character, the Little Tramp, also called Charlot.
American Pop is a 1981 animated drama that tells the story of four generations of a Russian Jewish immigrant family. The film explores their journey and their involvement in American pop culture. From the 1890s to the 1980s, the film depicts the struggles and triumphs of the family, including their experiences with prohibition, rock music, drugs, and the music business. Through its unique rotoscoping animation technique, American Pop provides a captivating and emotional portrayal of the immigrant experience and its impact on American society.
Goodbye, Mr. Chips is a heartwarming drama that tells the story of Mr. Chips, a dedicated teacher who has a profound impact on generations of students at a British public school. Set against the backdrop of the early 20th century, the film follows Mr. Chips as he navigates his personal and professional life, facing challenges and triumphs along the way. Through his unwavering dedication to his students, Mr. Chips proves that one person can make a lasting difference in the lives of many.
In 1928, as the talkies threw the film industry and film language into turmoil, Chaplin decided that his Tramp character would not be heard. City Lights would not be a talking picture, but it would have a soundtrack. Chaplin personally composed a musical score and sound effects for the picture. With Peter Lord, the famous co-creator of Chicken Run and Wallace & Gromit, we see how Chaplin became the king of slapstick comedy and the superstar of the movies.
Star! is a musical biopic that tells the story of a famous stage actress who rises to fame and battles personal and professional challenges. Set in the 1920s and 1930s in Manhattan, New York City, the film explores the actress's ambition, divorce, pregnancy, and struggles with alcoholism. It showcases her rise to stardom in the musical theater industry, her relationships with other performers, and her constant pursuit of fame.
A man named Marco Mazetti finds himself pregnant after a gynecologist's mistake. As news spreads, he faces public scrutiny and challenges to his right to choose. Marco deals with the societal expectations of gender roles and his own personal anxieties. With the support of his partner, Marco navigates the complexities of his situation, all while grappling with the implications for women's rights and freedom of choice.
Lucky Break is a comedy crime film about a group of prison inmates who plan a musical production as a cover for their escape. The film takes place in a high-security prison in England, where the inmates face various challenges and setbacks while rehearsing for their show. Along the way, they form unexpected friendships and navigate male-female relationships. As their opening night approaches, tensions rise and the group faces the possibility of getting caught. Will they be able to pull off the perfect escape?
Jenny Lamour, a cabaret singer, becomes embroiled in a murder investigation after her husband suspects her of infidelity. With the help of a detective, they uncover a web of jealousy, betrayal, and hidden desires.
The renowned detective Sherlock Holmes is called to New York to investigate a series of mysterious crimes, including a bank robbery and a kidnapping. Along with his trusty partner Dr. John Watson, Holmes must unravel the clues and outsmart the criminal mastermind behind it all.