Dad's Army Collection Set (DVD, 2000, 3-Disc Set)

I don't know where you are, but I'm in North America and in early 2007 I'm still cut off from a lot of "stuff" that I thought I would be enjoying by now. This includes live rugby and cricket but we won't go into that! However, certain things are picking up, and this DVD about a Home Guard platoon defending England's coast in WWII is a reminder of that. It's been available for some years and, apart from being a delight to watch over again after seeing the original series on TV in the 60s, it showcases some marvellous British talent, including some great character actors whose careers were not quite as noticeable as others. In particular, Arthur Lowe is in his element here as Captain Mainwaring (pronounced Mannering - don't you love that kind of talk!), the head of the platoon of mostly old fuddy-duddies with the odd gangling youth and ne'er-do-well thrown in for good measure. John Le Mesurier also gives a great performance (one of his last) and he adds a very special touch, as he attempts to cast himself in the impossible role of non-com to his fussy domineering, by-the-book Captain. All the characters in this long-running series have theatrical experience and it shows - there is an element of theatricality about nearly every episode which adds to the enjoyment. I enjoy watching a half-hour episode on my computer every now and again. Who'd have thought that's where Dad's Army would eventually end up! So, who do you think you are kidding Mr. Hitler, if you think old England's done... enjoy!!

I happened upon "Dad's Army" on a PBS station, some years ago, and became an immediate fan. It was frustrating to learn, more recently, when I attempted to purchase a DVD, that there were no versions engineered for the US. All I can say at finding this product is, spot on!

Jim O'Dell
Buellton, CA