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An Actor's Life for Me: Complete Series (TV)
R2 - United Kingdom - Simply Media Review written by and copyright: Samuel Scott (24th August 2015). |
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The Show
 ***This is an A/V and Extras review only. For reviews on the movie from various critics, we recommend visiting HERE.*** All the world’s a stage for a wannabe actor who’s always playing the fool! John Gordon Sinclair is Robert, an aspiring actor willing to do anything for that elusive big break. But with his agent signing him up as a stuntman, he is more likely to break his neck. Meanwhile his girlfriend has to wait in the wings… Certain that it’s only a matter of time before he makes it, struggling actor Robert throws himself into every role, taking ‘break a leg’ a bit too literally! Fiancée Sue (Gina McKee, Notting Hill) is always on hand to support and encourage him,whilst his less-than-capable agent Desmond (Victor Spinetti, A Hard Day’s Night) desperately tries to flog his talent – unsuccessfully. First broadcast in 1991, following on from a hugely popular run on BBC Radio 2, the series was written by Paul Mayhew-Archer (The Vicar of Dibley, Miranda, Esio Trot) and co-starred Benedict Taylor (Notes on a Scandal) and Sophie Dix (The Advocate). On DVD for the very first time, the series sees Robert auditioning for the role of a chauffeur, without a driving license; starring as a corpse, whilst sniffling through a cold and playing a transvestite in a sex farce the same weekend that his girlfriend’s parents demand to watch him at work!
Video
Independent British distributor Simply Media once again dig up some quality BBC comedy of times passed, releasing all six episodes of "An Actor's Life for Me" for its worldwide DVD debut. They provide the show in the original broadcast aspect ratio of 1.33:1, and it is certainly an adequate transfer. For those that have caught the daily ten repeats of "Only Fools and Horses" on Dave, then you'll have a good idea of the sort of quality to expect here. It unfortunately seems as though no restoration work or cleaning up has been done on the show, but it still maintains the look of modern day broadcasts of similar shows of the early nineties. Colours can be a little dull at times, and skin tones warm, but lighter colours in external scenes (episode two when Robert finds his motor has been stolen) can pop nicely and do add a little depth. Details are pretty average, with external scenes again fairing better. However, although the scenes which take place in Robert and Sue's home can show decent levels of clarity at times, especially in character's clothing and in facial close-ups, different shots in these same scenes can look overly dark and cluttered, with some blockiness. The main issue is that aliasing can often be quite heavy, but it isn't overly intrusive. Despite the minor inconsistencies, purchasers will generally be happy with the quality and the lack of damage in the source. I've included some screenshots at the bottom of the review for your perusal. All six episodes are on a single disc, and can be selected as a play all option or individually.
Audio
Simply Media have provided a single English Dolby Digital 2.0 Stereo track for this release which sounds fine and is without issue. Separation is minimal, but dialogue is clear and concise at all times, if flat. The laugh track isn't overpowering and is well placed, whilst the sound effects and occasional score offers up some minor depth. Volume levels are consistent throughout and although I would make a guess that no additional work has been done to the source by Simply Media, it likely sounds accurate to the original broadcast. There is no background hiss to be heard here, and no pops, scratches, or crackles to speak of. As far as DVD releases of older television comedies go, this is a standard quality track. Optional English subtitles have been included for the hard-of-hearing.
Extras
Nothing.
Overall
A solid six episode show from the BBC with a great rapport between the leads John Gordon Sinclair and Gina McKee. The final episode has a surprise that some won't see coming (I certainly didn't). The A/V quality is good, but nothing more. Fans of the show will be satisfied with this release, and shouldn't hesitate in picking it up. 
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