Artivels Undescribable Perfection

Erica Derrick By the time the dramatic fireworks start popping off, each one feels earned.

Derrick Gibbons An old-fashioned movie made with new-fashioned finesse.

Allison Davies The film never slows down or bores, plunging from one harrowing sequence to the next.

Tom Dooley This was made in 1959 as a training aid for British soldiers. It is a re-staging of how captured British soldiers were treated by the People's Army of China during the Korean War. It is very austere but they use real actors and not people who have used make up to look more Chinese etc and this adds to the authenticity.At 64 minutes it is quite short but it is very intense. It was also 'restricted' viewing and only allowed to be shown to designated military personnel. As such it is remarkably realistic. There are depictions of torture throughout and aspects of brain washing. It is not overly violent though but it still has a lot of impact.It is also in black and white and has very few persons that you will have heard of. However, those who are eagle eyed may spot and early role for Wilfred Bramble before he became Steptoe. This is a great watch for anyone interested in film and or military history and I have to say I found it fascinating.