|
|
|
Secrets of the Castle: The Complete Series (TV)
R2 - United Kingdom - Acorn Media Review written by and copyright: Samuel Scott (31st January 2015). |
|
The Show
 ***This is an A/V and extras review only. For reviews on the show from various critics, we recommend visiting HERE.*** Historian Ruth Goodman and archaeologists Peter Ginn and Tom Pinfold turn the clock back to learn the skills of the medieval castle builders - by joining the largest archaeological experiment in the world. Although Britain has some of the fines remaining castles of the medieval period, many of their secrets have been lost in time. So Ruth, Peter and Tom travel to Guedelon, in the Burgandy region of France, where an ambitious, 25 year project is under way to build a medieval castle from scratch, using only materials and tools available in the 13th century. As our trio get to grips with the skills and crafts of medieval construction, they recapture an era, and a camaraderie not often seen today in the workplace. For six months they experience the daily rigours of life in the 13th century, from how to dress to the art of combat. Secrets of the Castle brings medieval history to life in a fun and informative way.
Video
The British arm of multi-national distributor Acorn Media have released "Secrets of the Castle" on to DVD in the United Kingdom using the original broadcast aspect ratio of 1.78:1. The transfer is anamorphic, and in PAL format, and is a solid, if uninspiring presentation overall. Filmed on location in Guedelon, France, and taking place outdoors for the vast majority of the five hour run time, the show doesn't really exhibit too many problems. There are several shots focusing on the dark clouds moving in during episode three which do fall victim to some excessive banding in the skyline, but these shots are short and few in number. In some of the scenes with long straight edges of castle walls, we can also see minor aliasing, but not even close to the extent where it would be considered an issue. Colours look fine, especially the various browns and greens of the 13th century style clothing. Blacks are average, with minimal crush, and the muddy/sandy location of the build shows good levels of clarity between the lighter colours. Details are at a level you would expect for a recent television show in this genre, never blowing the viewer away, but never disappointing either. Some of the authentic inspirations of decor from old buildings we see look superb, and the intricate details of stone work in the castle walls, or of wooden beams in internal scenes, are of particular note. The transfer could have done with being a little sharper, but considering there's no damage or major problems, this presentation is above average. The show is uncut and features all five episodes. Episodes one to three are on the first disc, with episodes four and five on disc two.
Audio
Acorn Media have provided a single English/French Dolby Digital 2.0 Stereo track for this release, which is typical of these sorts of shows. This is a very basic track, but then it is dialogue heavy with little need for additional effects. The score is kept quite quiet in comparison to the dialogue, but effects do sound good throughout. Whether it be examples of how stonemasons cut up sandstone, or the workings of a water mill, these effects show good clarity, but never overpower the three presenters or the narration. Dialogue is clear throughout and volume levels are consistent, though it has to be said that channel separation is almost non-existent. It should come as no surprise that there are no issues with the track such as scratches or drop outs, and I noticed no signs of background hiss. No qualms, but room for improvement. English speech features optional English subtitles, whilst the rare line in French has forced English subtitles.
Extras
Both extras can be found on disc one. The main extra feature is a featurette entitled "Secrets of the Castle: Behind the Build" (20:52). This is an interesting little extra, where we hear about how the project got off the ground, and even more information about the build. Executive producer David Upshall and Guedelon's press officer Sarah Preston give some fascinating tidbits of information with the castle as the backdrop to their discussion, though you have to feel sorry for them as they are being filmed in the pouring rain. Thankfully it doesn't dampen their enthusiasm. In more comfortable settings, we also hear more about the project and the 13th century period from Peter Ginn and Tom Pinfold, as well as Ruth Goodman. A solid addition to the disc. There is also a photo gallery (1:20).
Overall
This is a well made and enjoyable history series that is neither too basic, nor too technical. The presenters work well together and that helps the show feel relaxed and makes it an easy watch. The technical presentation is good, and the featurette worth watching.
|
|||||
|