Product: Hound of the Baskervilles [VHS] (1983)
Rating: 5.0
do not let the naysayers dissuade you
First, of the 6 'hounds' I have on DVD, this is the only one that seriously attempts to remain true to the novel. Yes, Hickok brings in the character of Lyons (Brian Blessed), the husband, who appears only by reference in the novel. But that character is not only interesting, but consistent with Conan Doyle's intent. Churchill is not the most interesting Watson (there are Burke and Hardwicke, of course) but he had played Watson on BBC in many of the short stories, and he is consistent and believable. In particular, his reaction to being tricked by Holmes is very believable. Richardson, who many might think too acidulous for the role, turns in a stellar performance, unfortunately limited by the nature of the novel (as all Holmes' fans know, this story was not intended originally for Sherlock Holmes; that is why he appears so little). Of the two Holmes films Richardson made, this is the one to have. Martin Shaw as Sir Henry is brilliant, not so much in himself, as by reference to all the nincompoops who have been cast in the role (including the BBC Jeremy Brett film). The minor roles (Denholm Elliott, Connie Booth, Nicholas Clay--known to most Holmes' fanciers as the doctor in 'resident patient', and, above all, Ronald Lacey as Lestrade) are very, very well-taken. So it is all great? Does it really deserve 5 stars?There are two 'semi-obligatory musical interludes' (as Ebert used to say), not long, and not in slow-mo but still oppressive (the first meeting of Stapleton's wife-sister and Sir Henry, the second with Sir Henry, Beryl, and the 'Gypsy'). Perhaps one or two other times, the music becomes pre-adolescent. Color photography does not do Conan Doyle any favors, but I become use to it as I watch. And, actually, the color is handled very well (this is not a Hammer production). The budget is not huge, but the art direction succeeds very well.Not perfect then? Did you expect it to be? No, it does not resolve the problems raised by the novel (Beryl Stapleton--villain, accomplice, victim?, Dr Mortimer--dupe or accomplice?). Is it better than any other 'hound' on DVD? Yes, indeed. And, no, it does not quite deserve 5 stars, but when I am confronted with critics who disparage without regard for art or reality, I must try to balance the books.