The Richard Burton Museum Film and Television Library
Richard Burton's highly successful film career was to last for over thirty-five years. In that time he made well over fifty films, as well as making appearances in several dramas made especially for British and American television.
As with any career lasting so long, he did make one or two bad choices in the type of roles he undertook, especially in the mid to late 1970's, but for the most part it can be said that in some films he was spectacular and that in most roles he was exceptional.
However, it is without question that in whatever film he was starring, or even making a brief appearance in, good or bad, his screen presence was undeniable.
As Peter O' Toole, his good friend and co-star in the 1964 historical drama, 'Becket' once remarked in relation to Richard Burton's theatrical stage presence, and which can also be said in regard to his his presence on-screen;
"If there were twelve elephants on stage... you would still look at Richard."
This page lists all of the official DVDs, Blu-Ray Discs, unofficial DVDRs and VHS videotapes which are held in the Richard Burton Museum collection. At the present time however the collection is incomplete as one rare and important early film is missing from the collection, namely; 'The Woman With No Name' starring Phyllis Calvert (released by Associated British-Pathe in 1950 and known as 'Her Panelled Door' in the United States). Any information as to where a copy of this early film might be obtained would be greatly appreciated.
As with any career lasting so long, he did make one or two bad choices in the type of roles he undertook, especially in the mid to late 1970's, but for the most part it can be said that in some films he was spectacular and that in most roles he was exceptional.
However, it is without question that in whatever film he was starring, or even making a brief appearance in, good or bad, his screen presence was undeniable.
As Peter O' Toole, his good friend and co-star in the 1964 historical drama, 'Becket' once remarked in relation to Richard Burton's theatrical stage presence, and which can also be said in regard to his his presence on-screen;
"If there were twelve elephants on stage... you would still look at Richard."
This page lists all of the official DVDs, Blu-Ray Discs, unofficial DVDRs and VHS videotapes which are held in the Richard Burton Museum collection. At the present time however the collection is incomplete as one rare and important early film is missing from the collection, namely; 'The Woman With No Name' starring Phyllis Calvert (released by Associated British-Pathe in 1950 and known as 'Her Panelled Door' in the United States). Any information as to where a copy of this early film might be obtained would be greatly appreciated.
'The Last Days Of Dolwyn' London Films / De Grunwald Productions, 1949
A copy of an official Australian DVD release of the 1949 film,'The Last Days Of Dolwyn'.
The film was written and directed by Emlyn Williams with the assistance of Russell Lloyd and features stunning, atmospheric, black and white cinematography provided by Otto Heller.
'The Last Days Of Dolwyn', Richard Burton's debut film, co-starred Edith Evans, Hugh Griffith, Andrea Lea, Frank Dunlop, Anthony James, Allan Aynesworth, Maurice Browning and Emlyn Williams himself and was produced by London Films and De Grunwald Productions.
The original 1949 film release of 'The Last Days Of Dolwyn' was distributed by The British Lion Corporation.
This digitally remastered Australian DVD edition was released by Cygnus Home Entertainment and was issued with the catalogue number CHE 50016.
In this charming and enchanting film, Richard Burton was cast in the role of Gareth, the adopted son of Merri, beautifully portrayed by Edith Evans.
Set in 1892, in the fictional farming village of Dolwyn in Mid-Wales, it is the dramatic story of a man, played by Emlyn Williams, who was banished from the village as a small boy, labelled as a thief, who returns years later with revenge in mind. Now a wealthy man he intends to buy the entire district and drown the village of Dolwyn in an act of revenge under the guise as part of a Government water reservoir project.
This was Richard Burton's first screen role, the part being especially written for him by Emlyn Williams. Richard Burton's future wife, Sybil Williams, had a small part in the film, cast as one of the villagers of Dolwyn.
Edith Evans won second place in the 1949 New York Film Critics Circle Awards for Best Actress and John Greenwood won an award for Best Musical Score at The Venice Film Festival in 1949.
The film was renamed 'Women Of Dolwyn' especially for the American market.
'The Last Days Of Dolwyn' premiered in Cardiff, attended by Richard Burton's family, on the 13th of April, 1949.
This was the only film ever directed by Emlyn Williams and marked the first appearance on film of Edith Evans since 1916.
The News Of The World, in a contemporary review of 'The Last Days Of Dolwyn', was to write prophetically of the young Richard Burton;
"This twenty-two year old possesses the fire of great acting allied to good looks, a manly bearing and an innate tenderness that renders his love scenes so movingly real. Richard Burton, this column salutes you. Like it or not, you are destined for the pinnacles of fame."
The film was written and directed by Emlyn Williams with the assistance of Russell Lloyd and features stunning, atmospheric, black and white cinematography provided by Otto Heller.
'The Last Days Of Dolwyn', Richard Burton's debut film, co-starred Edith Evans, Hugh Griffith, Andrea Lea, Frank Dunlop, Anthony James, Allan Aynesworth, Maurice Browning and Emlyn Williams himself and was produced by London Films and De Grunwald Productions.
The original 1949 film release of 'The Last Days Of Dolwyn' was distributed by The British Lion Corporation.
This digitally remastered Australian DVD edition was released by Cygnus Home Entertainment and was issued with the catalogue number CHE 50016.
In this charming and enchanting film, Richard Burton was cast in the role of Gareth, the adopted son of Merri, beautifully portrayed by Edith Evans.
Set in 1892, in the fictional farming village of Dolwyn in Mid-Wales, it is the dramatic story of a man, played by Emlyn Williams, who was banished from the village as a small boy, labelled as a thief, who returns years later with revenge in mind. Now a wealthy man he intends to buy the entire district and drown the village of Dolwyn in an act of revenge under the guise as part of a Government water reservoir project.
This was Richard Burton's first screen role, the part being especially written for him by Emlyn Williams. Richard Burton's future wife, Sybil Williams, had a small part in the film, cast as one of the villagers of Dolwyn.
Edith Evans won second place in the 1949 New York Film Critics Circle Awards for Best Actress and John Greenwood won an award for Best Musical Score at The Venice Film Festival in 1949.
The film was renamed 'Women Of Dolwyn' especially for the American market.
'The Last Days Of Dolwyn' premiered in Cardiff, attended by Richard Burton's family, on the 13th of April, 1949.
This was the only film ever directed by Emlyn Williams and marked the first appearance on film of Edith Evans since 1916.
The News Of The World, in a contemporary review of 'The Last Days Of Dolwyn', was to write prophetically of the young Richard Burton;
"This twenty-two year old possesses the fire of great acting allied to good looks, a manly bearing and an innate tenderness that renders his love scenes so movingly real. Richard Burton, this column salutes you. Like it or not, you are destined for the pinnacles of fame."
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The main title screens from the 1949 London Films production of 'The Last Days of Dolwyn', Richard Burton's debut film.
Whilst the interior filming for 'The Last Days of Dolwyn' took place at Shepperton Studios in Surrey, the exterior shots were filmed in the picturesque village of Rhydymain, Gwynedd, and this plaque was erected there by the British Film Institute and the Welsh Film Commission in 1996 to commemorate 'The Centenary of Cinema'.
Emlyn Williams' writing of 'The Last Days of Dolwyn' was in fact inspired by true events, the flooding of the small Welsh village of Llanwddyn in 1888 in order to create Lake Vymwy, a reservoir, to provide fresh water to Liverpool and the surrounding areas.
In the 1960's true life mirrored fiction when the reservoir Llyn Celyn was built in the valley of the River Tryweryn in Gwynedd to provide water to industries in Liverpool, enabled by the flooding of the village Capel Celyn.
Emlyn Williams' writing of 'The Last Days of Dolwyn' was in fact inspired by true events, the flooding of the small Welsh village of Llanwddyn in 1888 in order to create Lake Vymwy, a reservoir, to provide fresh water to Liverpool and the surrounding areas.
In the 1960's true life mirrored fiction when the reservoir Llyn Celyn was built in the valley of the River Tryweryn in Gwynedd to provide water to industries in Liverpool, enabled by the flooding of the village Capel Celyn.
'Now Barabbas Was A Robber' Warner Brothers / First National Productions, 1949
'Waterfront' Bell Pictures / General Film Distributors, 1950
An unofficial American DVD of the General Film Distributors / Bell Pictures, gritty urban drama entitled, 'Waterfront', which was originally released in 1950.
Promoted with the tag-line,'The desires and loneliness of seafaring men and their women', 'Waterfront' co-starred Robert Newton, Kathleen Harrison, Kenneth Griffith, James Hayter, Susan Shaw and Avis Scott.
The film, shot in black and white, was directed by Michael Anderson and was based on the 1934 novel written by John Brophy, who also wrote the original screenplay for the film.
Richard Burton was cast in the minor role of Ben Satherthwaite, an out-of-work ship's engineer desperate to find employment in the dockyards of Liverpool, whose life becomes entangled with the daughter of an abusive, drunkard sailor, played by Robert Newton, who returns home after having abandoned his family in the slums of Liverpool many years before.
'Waterfront' was produced by Paul Soskin Productions, under the name of Conqueror Films Limited, and was filmed entirely in the Bay District area of Liverpool.
The stirring music for the film was composed by Muir Mathison.
'Waterfront' opened to British cinema audiences on the 26th of July, 1950.
The film featured an uncredited early film appearance of 'Carry-On' actress Hattie Jacques in the role of a Music Hall singer.
The wonderful Welsh character actor Kenneth Griffith appears in 'Waterfront' in the role of the rather sleazy Maurice Bruno, he was to appear again with Richard Burton many years later in the classic 1979 film, 'The Wild Geese' in the memorable and delightful role of Medical Private Arthur Witty.
The main lead in this film, Robert Newton, would go on to be cast in a minor supporting role alongside Richard Burton in the 1953 film, 'The Desert Rats', at the time he was said to be unreliable on-set and was virtually unemployable with any major studio due to his alcoholic dependency. He was to die in obscurity in 1956 of alcohol related causes.
The film was renamed 'Waterfront Women' especially for the American market.
In an extract from a modern review, written by David Parkinson for the Radio Times, the film is described as;
"A sobering and little-seen portrait of Liverpool in the Depression. The film is undeniably melodramatic, but it has a surprisingly raw naturalism that suggests the influence of both Italian neo-realism and the proud British documentary tradition. As a seaman whose drunken binges mean misery for his family and trouble for his shipmates, Robert Newton reins in his tendency for excess, and receives solid support from the ever-dependable Kathleen Harrison and a young Richard Burton, in only his third feature."
Promoted with the tag-line,'The desires and loneliness of seafaring men and their women', 'Waterfront' co-starred Robert Newton, Kathleen Harrison, Kenneth Griffith, James Hayter, Susan Shaw and Avis Scott.
The film, shot in black and white, was directed by Michael Anderson and was based on the 1934 novel written by John Brophy, who also wrote the original screenplay for the film.
Richard Burton was cast in the minor role of Ben Satherthwaite, an out-of-work ship's engineer desperate to find employment in the dockyards of Liverpool, whose life becomes entangled with the daughter of an abusive, drunkard sailor, played by Robert Newton, who returns home after having abandoned his family in the slums of Liverpool many years before.
'Waterfront' was produced by Paul Soskin Productions, under the name of Conqueror Films Limited, and was filmed entirely in the Bay District area of Liverpool.
The stirring music for the film was composed by Muir Mathison.
'Waterfront' opened to British cinema audiences on the 26th of July, 1950.
The film featured an uncredited early film appearance of 'Carry-On' actress Hattie Jacques in the role of a Music Hall singer.
The wonderful Welsh character actor Kenneth Griffith appears in 'Waterfront' in the role of the rather sleazy Maurice Bruno, he was to appear again with Richard Burton many years later in the classic 1979 film, 'The Wild Geese' in the memorable and delightful role of Medical Private Arthur Witty.
The main lead in this film, Robert Newton, would go on to be cast in a minor supporting role alongside Richard Burton in the 1953 film, 'The Desert Rats', at the time he was said to be unreliable on-set and was virtually unemployable with any major studio due to his alcoholic dependency. He was to die in obscurity in 1956 of alcohol related causes.
The film was renamed 'Waterfront Women' especially for the American market.
In an extract from a modern review, written by David Parkinson for the Radio Times, the film is described as;
"A sobering and little-seen portrait of Liverpool in the Depression. The film is undeniably melodramatic, but it has a surprisingly raw naturalism that suggests the influence of both Italian neo-realism and the proud British documentary tradition. As a seaman whose drunken binges mean misery for his family and trouble for his shipmates, Robert Newton reins in his tendency for excess, and receives solid support from the ever-dependable Kathleen Harrison and a young Richard Burton, in only his third feature."
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The atmospheric title screens for the 1950, Bell Pictures production of 'Waterfront'.
'Waterfront' Bell Pictures / General Film Distributors, 1950
(Version Two)
A copy of the official U.K. DVD release of the 1950 urban drama, 'Waterfront'.
Released as part of a collection entitled 'The British Film' by StudioCanal in association with Film Forever and the National Lottery in 2015 and issued with the catalogue number VFD92274.
The cover notes for this edition read;
'This outstanding drama traces the turbulent life of a seaman brutalised by a life of hard work and hard drinking, and the challenges facing the three children he abandons as they struggle to make their way in Depression-era Liverpool. Featuring powerful performances from Robert Newton, Susan Shaw, Kathleen Harrison and a young Richard Burton - appearing here in only his third film - 'Waterfront' is presented in a brand-new transfer from the original film elements in its as-exhibited theatrical aspect ratio.
When ship's fireman Peter McCabe walks out on his long-suffering wife, he leaves her impoverished, with two young daughters and a boy born soon after his departure. After an absence of fourteen years McCabe returns, sacked and humiliated, trailing trouble in his wake'.
Bonus features which appear on this official DVD release include an image gallery and pages from the official 1950 'Waterfront' press book.
Released as part of a collection entitled 'The British Film' by StudioCanal in association with Film Forever and the National Lottery in 2015 and issued with the catalogue number VFD92274.
The cover notes for this edition read;
'This outstanding drama traces the turbulent life of a seaman brutalised by a life of hard work and hard drinking, and the challenges facing the three children he abandons as they struggle to make their way in Depression-era Liverpool. Featuring powerful performances from Robert Newton, Susan Shaw, Kathleen Harrison and a young Richard Burton - appearing here in only his third film - 'Waterfront' is presented in a brand-new transfer from the original film elements in its as-exhibited theatrical aspect ratio.
When ship's fireman Peter McCabe walks out on his long-suffering wife, he leaves her impoverished, with two young daughters and a boy born soon after his departure. After an absence of fourteen years McCabe returns, sacked and humiliated, trailing trouble in his wake'.
Bonus features which appear on this official DVD release include an image gallery and pages from the official 1950 'Waterfront' press book.
The interior of the official StudioCanal DVD release of 'Waterfront' featuring images of promotional material contemporary to the film's 1950 release.
'Green Grow The Rushes' Association of Cinema Technicians and British Lion Films, 1951
An unofficial American DVDR of the British Lion / A.C.T. production of the 1951 comedy film, 'Green Grow the Rushes'.
Directed by Derek N. Twist, the film was based on his own screenplay which had been co-written by Howard Clewes. The film co-starred Roger Livesey, Harcourt Williams, Arnold Ridley, Bryan Forbes and Honor Blackman.
Richard Burton plays the part of charter boat-hand and smuggler, Robert Hammond. The film was produced by John Gossage and funded, in part, by the National Film Finance Corporation and The Co-Operative Wholesale Society Bank.
The interior filming took place at the Associated British Studios based in Elstree in Kent whilst the location shooting was filmed on the coastal wetland area of Romney Marsh in the South-East of England.
The film was re-released in 1954 under the title of 'Brandy Ashore'.
The music for this delightful film was composed by Lambert Williamson.
'Green Grow The Rushes' was released to cinema audiences in Britain on the 6th of November, 1951.
The cover notes for this unofficial DVD release read;
'The British film industry was in deep trouble in the late 1940's, sufficient to justify the craft unions themselves working to secure some production for their members - one result was 'Green Grow The Rushes' (1951), a comedy directed by Derek Twist and starring Richard Burton, Roger Livesey and Honor Blackman.
The plot is a piercing look at post-war Britain, and efforts to move the nation into the modern age - that doesn't sit well with the people of Anderia Marsh, who have claimed a right to evade Government-imposed import duties and taxes, and when the Government decides to curb this right, the whole village quietly rises up in a comical rebellion.'
Directed by Derek N. Twist, the film was based on his own screenplay which had been co-written by Howard Clewes. The film co-starred Roger Livesey, Harcourt Williams, Arnold Ridley, Bryan Forbes and Honor Blackman.
Richard Burton plays the part of charter boat-hand and smuggler, Robert Hammond. The film was produced by John Gossage and funded, in part, by the National Film Finance Corporation and The Co-Operative Wholesale Society Bank.
The interior filming took place at the Associated British Studios based in Elstree in Kent whilst the location shooting was filmed on the coastal wetland area of Romney Marsh in the South-East of England.
The film was re-released in 1954 under the title of 'Brandy Ashore'.
The music for this delightful film was composed by Lambert Williamson.
'Green Grow The Rushes' was released to cinema audiences in Britain on the 6th of November, 1951.
The cover notes for this unofficial DVD release read;
'The British film industry was in deep trouble in the late 1940's, sufficient to justify the craft unions themselves working to secure some production for their members - one result was 'Green Grow The Rushes' (1951), a comedy directed by Derek Twist and starring Richard Burton, Roger Livesey and Honor Blackman.
The plot is a piercing look at post-war Britain, and efforts to move the nation into the modern age - that doesn't sit well with the people of Anderia Marsh, who have claimed a right to evade Government-imposed import duties and taxes, and when the Government decides to curb this right, the whole village quietly rises up in a comical rebellion.'
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The opening title screens for the 1951 comedy film, 'Green Grow The Rushes', directed by Derek N. Twist.
'My Cousin Rachel' Twentieth Century Fox Studios, 1952
An unofficial American DVDR of the 1952, Twentieth Century Fox production of the haunting melodrama, 'My Cousin Rachel'.
The film co-starred Olivia de Havilland, Audrey Dalton, Ronald Squire, Tudor Owen and John Sutton and was directed by Henry Koster and produced by Nunnally Johnson.
The film was based on the best-selling novel by Daphne du Maurier, with a screenplay written for this film adaption by Nunnally Johnson.
In this beautifully filmed, atmospheric melodrama, Richard Burton plays the young heir Philip Ashley, who is convinced that his beloved cousin Ambrose was murdered by his mysterious new wife Rachel, played by Olivia de Havilland.
The haunting musical score was composed by Franz Waxman which beautifully complemented the atmospheric cinematography by Joseph LaShelle.
'My Cousin Rachel' was nominated for four Academy Awards, which included Richard Burton's first nomination for Best Actor.
Richard Burton received a Golden Globe Award for 'Most Promising Newcomer of 1952'.
The entire filming of 'My Cousin Rachel' took place at the Twentieth Century Fox Studios which at that time were based in Century City, Los Angeles, California.
'My Cousin Rachel' premiered in New York on the Christmas Eve of 1952.
The New York Times, in their Boxing Day 1952 edition;
'Mr. Burton, lean and handsome, is the perfect hero of Miss du Maurier's tale. His outbursts of ecstasy and torment are in the grand romantic style'.
'Variety' magazine was to add;
'Opposite Olivia de Havilland is Richard Burton, an English actor debuting in Hollywood pictures. He creates a strong impression and undoubtedly will be in demand for further top assignments, judging by the strength he gives the role of a lovelorn suspicious man'.
Richard G. Hubler, writing in the 'Saturday Evening Post', wrote of Richard Burton's performance in 'My Cousin Rachel';
"The passion and energy he crams into his role makes Burton a throwback to the grand old ideals of acting - in the tradition of John Barrymore, Sir Henry Irving and Edmund Kean. Not that Burton's style is theirs - he is more intimate, less flamboyant - but his concept of the profession is the same. He is not afraid to emotionalize off-stage as well as on. It is hard for him to open a door, pour a drink or blow his nose without making a dramatic scene out of it!..."
The film co-starred Olivia de Havilland, Audrey Dalton, Ronald Squire, Tudor Owen and John Sutton and was directed by Henry Koster and produced by Nunnally Johnson.
The film was based on the best-selling novel by Daphne du Maurier, with a screenplay written for this film adaption by Nunnally Johnson.
In this beautifully filmed, atmospheric melodrama, Richard Burton plays the young heir Philip Ashley, who is convinced that his beloved cousin Ambrose was murdered by his mysterious new wife Rachel, played by Olivia de Havilland.
The haunting musical score was composed by Franz Waxman which beautifully complemented the atmospheric cinematography by Joseph LaShelle.
'My Cousin Rachel' was nominated for four Academy Awards, which included Richard Burton's first nomination for Best Actor.
Richard Burton received a Golden Globe Award for 'Most Promising Newcomer of 1952'.
The entire filming of 'My Cousin Rachel' took place at the Twentieth Century Fox Studios which at that time were based in Century City, Los Angeles, California.
'My Cousin Rachel' premiered in New York on the Christmas Eve of 1952.
The New York Times, in their Boxing Day 1952 edition;
'Mr. Burton, lean and handsome, is the perfect hero of Miss du Maurier's tale. His outbursts of ecstasy and torment are in the grand romantic style'.
'Variety' magazine was to add;
'Opposite Olivia de Havilland is Richard Burton, an English actor debuting in Hollywood pictures. He creates a strong impression and undoubtedly will be in demand for further top assignments, judging by the strength he gives the role of a lovelorn suspicious man'.
Richard G. Hubler, writing in the 'Saturday Evening Post', wrote of Richard Burton's performance in 'My Cousin Rachel';
"The passion and energy he crams into his role makes Burton a throwback to the grand old ideals of acting - in the tradition of John Barrymore, Sir Henry Irving and Edmund Kean. Not that Burton's style is theirs - he is more intimate, less flamboyant - but his concept of the profession is the same. He is not afraid to emotionalize off-stage as well as on. It is hard for him to open a door, pour a drink or blow his nose without making a dramatic scene out of it!..."
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The opening title credits for the 1952 Twentieth Century Fox haunting melodrama, 'My Cousin Rachel'.
'My Cousin Rachel' Twentieth Century Fox Studios
(Version Two)
A copy of the 2012 official British DVD release of the Twentieth Century Fox production of Daphne du Maurier's, 'My Cousin Rachel'.
This official edition was released in 2012 by the Twentieth Century Fox Corporation as part of 'The Hollywood Studio Collection' series of DVD releases and was issued with the catalogue number DDNF 365.
This official DVD edition includes the original American Twentieth Century Fox theatrical trailer, dating from 1952.
The cover notes for this 2012 edition read;
'Based on the best-selling novel by Daphne du Maurier, author of the peerless 'Rebecca', 'My Cousin Rachel' (1952) weaves an eerie tale of Gothic romance, set against the backdrop of the wild, rock-ribbed Cornish coast. Richard Burton, in his first American film role, stars as an anguished young Englishman, torn between dark suspicion of and an uncontrollable passion for his guardian's widow, the alluring and mysterious Rachel (Olivia de Havilland).
With atmospheric direction by Henry Koster (The Robe) and a darkly romantic score by Franz Waxman (Sunset Boulevard), 'My Cousin Rachel' is a seductive entry in the annals of cinematic ambiguity.'
This official edition was released in 2012 by the Twentieth Century Fox Corporation as part of 'The Hollywood Studio Collection' series of DVD releases and was issued with the catalogue number DDNF 365.
This official DVD edition includes the original American Twentieth Century Fox theatrical trailer, dating from 1952.
The cover notes for this 2012 edition read;
'Based on the best-selling novel by Daphne du Maurier, author of the peerless 'Rebecca', 'My Cousin Rachel' (1952) weaves an eerie tale of Gothic romance, set against the backdrop of the wild, rock-ribbed Cornish coast. Richard Burton, in his first American film role, stars as an anguished young Englishman, torn between dark suspicion of and an uncontrollable passion for his guardian's widow, the alluring and mysterious Rachel (Olivia de Havilland).
With atmospheric direction by Henry Koster (The Robe) and a darkly romantic score by Franz Waxman (Sunset Boulevard), 'My Cousin Rachel' is a seductive entry in the annals of cinematic ambiguity.'
'The Desert Rats' Twentieth Century Fox Studios, 1953
The official DVD release of the Twentieth Century Fox production of the World War II drama, 'The Desert Rats'.
The film was directed by Robert Wise and produced by Robert L. Jacks and co-starred James Mason, Robert Douglas and Robert Newton.
The screenplay for 'The Desert Rats' was written by Richard Murphy and the narration was spoken by Michael Rennie.
Richard Burton was cast as Captain 'Tammy' MacRoberts, an English officer commanding a group of Australian soldiers defending Tobruk against Erwin Rommel's Afrika Korps.
Filming took place for 'The Desert Rats' in the Yuma and Mojave Deserts of Arizona and in Palm Springs and San Diego, California. Most of the action scenes used in the film was actual World War II footage.
The film was released to American cinema audiences on the 8th of May, 1953.
This edition was released on DVD in the U.K. by Fox Studio Classics in 2005 and was issued with the catalogue number FO-SGB 0131301009. Included on this release is the original 1953 theatrical trailer for the U.K. cinema release of 'The Desert Rats'.
'The Desert Rats' was nominated for an Academy Award in 1953 for 'Best Screenplay'.
The cover notes for this 2005 Studio Classics release read;
'Richard Burton stars in this exciting film about the courageous men who held off notorious German Field Marshall Erwin Rommel, despite being hopelessly outnumbered. The year is 1941, and all that stands between Rommel and the Suez Canal is the fortress of Tobruk, which is manned only by a small Australian battalion whom Captain MacRoberts (Burton) must whip them into shape - fast!
James Mason co-stars in a stunning portrayal as Rommel in this stirring, action-packed story of the World War II heroes known as The Desert Rats'.
The film was directed by Robert Wise and produced by Robert L. Jacks and co-starred James Mason, Robert Douglas and Robert Newton.
The screenplay for 'The Desert Rats' was written by Richard Murphy and the narration was spoken by Michael Rennie.
Richard Burton was cast as Captain 'Tammy' MacRoberts, an English officer commanding a group of Australian soldiers defending Tobruk against Erwin Rommel's Afrika Korps.
Filming took place for 'The Desert Rats' in the Yuma and Mojave Deserts of Arizona and in Palm Springs and San Diego, California. Most of the action scenes used in the film was actual World War II footage.
The film was released to American cinema audiences on the 8th of May, 1953.
This edition was released on DVD in the U.K. by Fox Studio Classics in 2005 and was issued with the catalogue number FO-SGB 0131301009. Included on this release is the original 1953 theatrical trailer for the U.K. cinema release of 'The Desert Rats'.
'The Desert Rats' was nominated for an Academy Award in 1953 for 'Best Screenplay'.
The cover notes for this 2005 Studio Classics release read;
'Richard Burton stars in this exciting film about the courageous men who held off notorious German Field Marshall Erwin Rommel, despite being hopelessly outnumbered. The year is 1941, and all that stands between Rommel and the Suez Canal is the fortress of Tobruk, which is manned only by a small Australian battalion whom Captain MacRoberts (Burton) must whip them into shape - fast!
James Mason co-stars in a stunning portrayal as Rommel in this stirring, action-packed story of the World War II heroes known as The Desert Rats'.
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The opening title credits for the 1953 Twentieth Century Fox production of 'The Desert Rats'.
'The Desert Rats' Twentieth Century Fox Studios, 1953 (Version Two)
A differently packaged version for a later official U.K. release of the Twentieth Century Fox production of the World War II drama, 'The Desert Rats'.
This edition was released by Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment (Europe) in 2012 and was issued with the catalogue number FO-SGB 0131301083.
This later version contains no bonus material aside from the original 1953 theatrical trailer.
Richard Burton disliked this film but was contractually bound to take on the role due to his binding contract with Twentieth Century Fox. He was to later write that every line of his dialogue in the film sounded as if he were reading from an Army training manual.
For this film, James Mason reprised his role as Field Marshall Erwin Rommel, the role he had played two years earlier in the Twentieth Century Fox production of 'The Desert Fox'.
This was to be one of the last films made by Twentieth Century Fox using a standard ratio filming format. Just four months after the release of 'The Desert Rats' they released their first film using the ground-breaking 'Cinemascope' format, that film was to be 'The Robe' starring Richard Burton in the lead role.
This edition was released by Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment (Europe) in 2012 and was issued with the catalogue number FO-SGB 0131301083.
This later version contains no bonus material aside from the original 1953 theatrical trailer.
Richard Burton disliked this film but was contractually bound to take on the role due to his binding contract with Twentieth Century Fox. He was to later write that every line of his dialogue in the film sounded as if he were reading from an Army training manual.
For this film, James Mason reprised his role as Field Marshall Erwin Rommel, the role he had played two years earlier in the Twentieth Century Fox production of 'The Desert Fox'.
This was to be one of the last films made by Twentieth Century Fox using a standard ratio filming format. Just four months after the release of 'The Desert Rats' they released their first film using the ground-breaking 'Cinemascope' format, that film was to be 'The Robe' starring Richard Burton in the lead role.
'The Robe' Twentieth Century Fox Studios, 1953
A copy of the official release of the Twentieth Century Fox, 1953 Biblical Epic, 'The Robe'.
This spectacular film co-starred Victor Mature, Jean Simmons, Michael Rennie, Jay Robinson and Dean Jagger.
'The Robe' was directed by Henry Koster, produced by Frank Ross and was based on the best-selling novel by Lloyd C. Douglas which had been adapted for the screen by Philip Dunne.
The stirring musical score was composed and conducted by Alfred Newman.
The interior filming for 'The Robe' took place at the Twentieth Century Fox Studios in Century City, Los Angeles whilst the exterior location filming took place at the Corrigan and Iverson Ranches in the Simi Valley, California.
'The Robe' gave Richard Burton his second 'Best Actor' Academy Award nomination for his portrayal of the Roman officer Marcellus Gallio. 'The Robe' did however go on to win two Academy Awards, for 'Best Art Direction' and for 'Costume Design'.
The film was released to cinema audiences in the U.K. on the 19th of November, 1953. This DVD edition was released by Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment in 2001. Featured on this DVD is the theatrical trailer for the later 1963 cinema release of 'The Robe'.
'The Robe' was the first film to be released by Twentieth Century Fox Film Studios using the special 'Widescreen' filming technique known as 'Cinemascope'.
This spectacular film co-starred Victor Mature, Jean Simmons, Michael Rennie, Jay Robinson and Dean Jagger.
'The Robe' was directed by Henry Koster, produced by Frank Ross and was based on the best-selling novel by Lloyd C. Douglas which had been adapted for the screen by Philip Dunne.
The stirring musical score was composed and conducted by Alfred Newman.
The interior filming for 'The Robe' took place at the Twentieth Century Fox Studios in Century City, Los Angeles whilst the exterior location filming took place at the Corrigan and Iverson Ranches in the Simi Valley, California.
'The Robe' gave Richard Burton his second 'Best Actor' Academy Award nomination for his portrayal of the Roman officer Marcellus Gallio. 'The Robe' did however go on to win two Academy Awards, for 'Best Art Direction' and for 'Costume Design'.
The film was released to cinema audiences in the U.K. on the 19th of November, 1953. This DVD edition was released by Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment in 2001. Featured on this DVD is the theatrical trailer for the later 1963 cinema release of 'The Robe'.
'The Robe' was the first film to be released by Twentieth Century Fox Film Studios using the special 'Widescreen' filming technique known as 'Cinemascope'.
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The rich 'Technicolour' opening credits for the lavish Twentieth Century Fox Biblical epic, 'The Robe' from 1953.
'The Robe' Twentieth Century Fox Pictures, 1953
(Version Two)
A differently packaged official DVD release of the 1953 Twentieth Century Fox production of 'The Robe'.
This widescreen edition was released in the U.K. by Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment in 2005 and was issued with the catalogue number F1-SGB 010225C.
No bonus material features on this 2005 edition except for an extensive range of subtitles.
The cover notes for this 2005 DVD release read;
'The first movie ever filmed in 'Cinemascope', 'The Robe' was nominated for five Academy Awards in 1953, including Best Picture and Best Actor for Richard Burton. Burton stars as Marcellus Gallio, the Roman centurion charged with overseeing the crucifixion. But when he wins Christ's robe in a gambling game at the foot of the cross, his life is forever changed.
With an inspired story set to a spectacular score, featuring an all-star cast, including Victor Mature and Jean Simmons, 'The Robe' remains one of the screen's greatest Biblical epics.'
This widescreen edition was released in the U.K. by Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment in 2005 and was issued with the catalogue number F1-SGB 010225C.
No bonus material features on this 2005 edition except for an extensive range of subtitles.
The cover notes for this 2005 DVD release read;
'The first movie ever filmed in 'Cinemascope', 'The Robe' was nominated for five Academy Awards in 1953, including Best Picture and Best Actor for Richard Burton. Burton stars as Marcellus Gallio, the Roman centurion charged with overseeing the crucifixion. But when he wins Christ's robe in a gambling game at the foot of the cross, his life is forever changed.
With an inspired story set to a spectacular score, featuring an all-star cast, including Victor Mature and Jean Simmons, 'The Robe' remains one of the screen's greatest Biblical epics.'
'The Rains Of Ranchipur' Twentieth Century Fox, 1955
An unofficial American DVDR copy of the 1955 drama, 'The Rains Of Ranchipur'.
The film, originally released by 20th Century Fox, was directed by Jean Negulesco and produced by Frank Ross.
'The Rains Of Ranchipur' was based on the novel, 'The Rains Came' written by Louis Bromfield, and this 1955 version was a remake of the 1939 film, 'The Rains Came' which had starred Myrna Loy and Tyrone Power. In this later version Richard Burton was cast as the Indian Doctor Safti.
The landscape scenery for the film was filmed in Lahore, Pakistan, all other filming was undertaken at the Twentieth Century Fox ranch located in Malibu, California.
Richard Burton's co-stars in 'The Rains Of Ranchipur' were Lana Turner, Michael Rennie and Fred MacMurray.
The film was nominated for an Academy Award in 1956 for 'Best Special Effects' and was premiered to American cinema audiences on the 14th of December, 1955.
'Variety' wrote of Richard Burton's performance in their December, 1955 issue, saying;
"Burton's portrayal of Dr. Safti, the dedicated Indian doctor who falls in love with Miss. Turner, has strength and conviction and is underplayed intelligently. He registers strongly."
The film, originally released by 20th Century Fox, was directed by Jean Negulesco and produced by Frank Ross.
'The Rains Of Ranchipur' was based on the novel, 'The Rains Came' written by Louis Bromfield, and this 1955 version was a remake of the 1939 film, 'The Rains Came' which had starred Myrna Loy and Tyrone Power. In this later version Richard Burton was cast as the Indian Doctor Safti.
The landscape scenery for the film was filmed in Lahore, Pakistan, all other filming was undertaken at the Twentieth Century Fox ranch located in Malibu, California.
Richard Burton's co-stars in 'The Rains Of Ranchipur' were Lana Turner, Michael Rennie and Fred MacMurray.
The film was nominated for an Academy Award in 1956 for 'Best Special Effects' and was premiered to American cinema audiences on the 14th of December, 1955.
'Variety' wrote of Richard Burton's performance in their December, 1955 issue, saying;
"Burton's portrayal of Dr. Safti, the dedicated Indian doctor who falls in love with Miss. Turner, has strength and conviction and is underplayed intelligently. He registers strongly."
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The opening title screens to the 1955 Twentieth Century Fox production of 'The Rains of Ranchipur'
'Prince Of Players' Twentieth Century Fox Studios, 1955
An unofficial American DVDR of the 1955 Twentieth Century Fox film production of the factual historical melodrama, 'Prince Of Players'.
'Prince Of Players' co-starred Maggie McNamara, Raymond Massey, Charles Bickford, Elizabeth Sellars and John Derek and was produced and directed by Philip Dunne.
Richard Burton was cast in the role of Edwin Booth, the factual theatrical brother of the infamous Abraham Lincoln assassin, John Wilkes Booth.
The screenplay for the film was written by Moss Hart and was based on the original play of the same name, written by Eleanor Ruggles.
The American critics were very complimentary when reviewing Richard Burton's performance in the film, writing;
"It is in the scenes of the picture wherein the 'madness' of the Booths is visualised in bursts of tempestuous intemperance and thundering soliloquies that the nature of the old-time troupers' theatre is colourfully and excitingly recalled and the pathos and irony of the characters is conveyed most movingly. And it is in these scenes that Richard Burton is most impressive as Edwin Booth."
"Richard Burton, a talented young player of London's Old Vic, is excellent as a Shakespearean actor. He is equally good as the off-stage Booth."
'Variety', sometimes quite harsh in their criticism of Richard Burton's film performances, wrote a glowing review, stating;
"In the part of Edwin Booth, Burton proves why Britain's Old Vic rates him so highly. He is a performer of great competence, delighting in a part tailormade to his talents. On stage and off, he etches a portrayal that stands out with its fire and strength."
The interior shots for the film took place at the Twentieth Century Fox Studios, Century City, Los Angeles whilst the exterior location filming took place at Lone Pine, California.
The film was released to U.K. cinema audiences on January the 11th, 1955.
'Prince Of Players' co-starred Maggie McNamara, Raymond Massey, Charles Bickford, Elizabeth Sellars and John Derek and was produced and directed by Philip Dunne.
Richard Burton was cast in the role of Edwin Booth, the factual theatrical brother of the infamous Abraham Lincoln assassin, John Wilkes Booth.
The screenplay for the film was written by Moss Hart and was based on the original play of the same name, written by Eleanor Ruggles.
The American critics were very complimentary when reviewing Richard Burton's performance in the film, writing;
"It is in the scenes of the picture wherein the 'madness' of the Booths is visualised in bursts of tempestuous intemperance and thundering soliloquies that the nature of the old-time troupers' theatre is colourfully and excitingly recalled and the pathos and irony of the characters is conveyed most movingly. And it is in these scenes that Richard Burton is most impressive as Edwin Booth."
"Richard Burton, a talented young player of London's Old Vic, is excellent as a Shakespearean actor. He is equally good as the off-stage Booth."
'Variety', sometimes quite harsh in their criticism of Richard Burton's film performances, wrote a glowing review, stating;
"In the part of Edwin Booth, Burton proves why Britain's Old Vic rates him so highly. He is a performer of great competence, delighting in a part tailormade to his talents. On stage and off, he etches a portrayal that stands out with its fire and strength."
The interior shots for the film took place at the Twentieth Century Fox Studios, Century City, Los Angeles whilst the exterior location filming took place at Lone Pine, California.
The film was released to U.K. cinema audiences on January the 11th, 1955.
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The impressive opening titles for the powerful Twentieth Century Fox production of 'Prince Of Players'.
'Alexander The Great' United Artists, 1956
A copy of the official U.K. DVD release of the epic historical film,'Alexander The Great'.
With Richard Burton, in the title role as the Macedonian general and king, the film co-starred Claire Bloom, Frederic March, Stanley Baker, Michael Hordern, Peter Cushing and Harry Andrews.
The film was written, directed and produced by Robert Rossen and was distributed by United Artists.
Interior filming for 'Alexander The Great' took place at the Estudios CEA in Spain and all the outside location filming took place in and around Madrid and Andalucia.
Although Richard Burton and Stanley Baker had been friends since they were teenagers and had acted together at various times in the theatre, this was to be, sadly, the only film in which they would appear together.
'Alexander The Great' was nominated for an award by the Directors Guild of America for outstanding directorial achievement.
The stirring musical score was provided by Italian composer, Mario Nascimbene.
The Royal World Premiere of 'Alexander the Great' took place in London on March the 22nd, 1956.
The 'New York Times' was to write in 1956;
'As Alexander, Richard Burton contributes a serious and impassioned portrayal of a man inspired by but still repelled by his father. He does not seem out of place as a great military leader or as an ordinary man'.
This edition was released on DVD by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Home Entertainment in 2000 and was issued with the catalogue number 15762DVDZ1.
The cover notes for this 2000 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer release read;
'He was a fierce military commander who led huge armies into battle without a single defeat; a magnificent warrior who many believed was part god - This was Alexander the Great (Richard Burton), the legendary Greek hero hailed by his countrymen as 'The King of Kings'.
Born in 356 B.C. into a turbulent world of political unrest, educated by Aristotle (Barry Jones) and chosen to lead his people in the grand tradition of his powerful father (Fredric March), this glorious world conqueror rose above all conflict to unite the continents of Europe and Asia and become one of the most celebrated rulers of all time!
Written, produced and directed by Oscar-winner Robert Rossen and featuring the extraordinary Claire Bloom and a remarkable cast of thousands, this stunning portrait of one of history's most fascinating figures is colossal entertainment and an amazing spectacle.'
With Richard Burton, in the title role as the Macedonian general and king, the film co-starred Claire Bloom, Frederic March, Stanley Baker, Michael Hordern, Peter Cushing and Harry Andrews.
The film was written, directed and produced by Robert Rossen and was distributed by United Artists.
Interior filming for 'Alexander The Great' took place at the Estudios CEA in Spain and all the outside location filming took place in and around Madrid and Andalucia.
Although Richard Burton and Stanley Baker had been friends since they were teenagers and had acted together at various times in the theatre, this was to be, sadly, the only film in which they would appear together.
'Alexander The Great' was nominated for an award by the Directors Guild of America for outstanding directorial achievement.
The stirring musical score was provided by Italian composer, Mario Nascimbene.
The Royal World Premiere of 'Alexander the Great' took place in London on March the 22nd, 1956.
The 'New York Times' was to write in 1956;
'As Alexander, Richard Burton contributes a serious and impassioned portrayal of a man inspired by but still repelled by his father. He does not seem out of place as a great military leader or as an ordinary man'.
This edition was released on DVD by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Home Entertainment in 2000 and was issued with the catalogue number 15762DVDZ1.
The cover notes for this 2000 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer release read;
'He was a fierce military commander who led huge armies into battle without a single defeat; a magnificent warrior who many believed was part god - This was Alexander the Great (Richard Burton), the legendary Greek hero hailed by his countrymen as 'The King of Kings'.
Born in 356 B.C. into a turbulent world of political unrest, educated by Aristotle (Barry Jones) and chosen to lead his people in the grand tradition of his powerful father (Fredric March), this glorious world conqueror rose above all conflict to unite the continents of Europe and Asia and become one of the most celebrated rulers of all time!
Written, produced and directed by Oscar-winner Robert Rossen and featuring the extraordinary Claire Bloom and a remarkable cast of thousands, this stunning portrait of one of history's most fascinating figures is colossal entertainment and an amazing spectacle.'
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The opening title screens for the epic United Artists historical drama 'Alexander The Great.'
'Bitter Victory' Columbia Pictures, 1957
A copy of an official American DVD release of the Anglo-French World War II drama, 'Bitter Victory.'
'Bitter Victory' was directed by Nicholas Ray and was based on the novel 'Amere Victoire' by Rene Hardy, the suspected traitor of the French Resistance, with the screenplay being written by Gavin Lambert.
The film co-starred Curt Jurgens, Ruth Roman, Alfred Burke and Christopher Lee.
Richard Burton was cast as Captain Jim Leith, a British army officer leading a patrol on a desert mission behind enemy lines, who also happens to be the former lover of the wife of his commanding officer, played by Curt Jurgens.
The film was nominated for a Golden Lion Award at the Venice Film Festival for 'Best Direction' in 1957.
Filming for 'Bitter Victory' took place at the Victorine Studios in Nice, whilst the location shooting took place in Libya and France.
'Bitter Victory was released to U.K. cinema audiences on the 25th of January, 1958 and in America on the 3rd of March of the same year.
This edition was released on DVD by Columbia and Sony Pictures in 2005 and issued with the catalogue number 10670.
The cover notes for this 2005 American DVD release read;
'A World War II drama starring Richard Burton and Curt Jurgens as Captain Leith and Major Brand, a pair of British Army officers assigned to execute a daring commando raid on the Libyan stronghold of General Rommel.
Even before the mission begins, the tension between the two is evident. This is further exacerbated when Brand learns that Leith and his wife (Ruth Roman) were once romantically involved. Once the operation is underway, Leith must save the day when Brand's cowardice is revealed, thus putting the mission and the lives of the men in jeopardy. As they struggle through the wastes of the Sahara we learn who will live, who will die and what is the price of glory.'
'Bitter Victory' was directed by Nicholas Ray and was based on the novel 'Amere Victoire' by Rene Hardy, the suspected traitor of the French Resistance, with the screenplay being written by Gavin Lambert.
The film co-starred Curt Jurgens, Ruth Roman, Alfred Burke and Christopher Lee.
Richard Burton was cast as Captain Jim Leith, a British army officer leading a patrol on a desert mission behind enemy lines, who also happens to be the former lover of the wife of his commanding officer, played by Curt Jurgens.
The film was nominated for a Golden Lion Award at the Venice Film Festival for 'Best Direction' in 1957.
Filming for 'Bitter Victory' took place at the Victorine Studios in Nice, whilst the location shooting took place in Libya and France.
'Bitter Victory was released to U.K. cinema audiences on the 25th of January, 1958 and in America on the 3rd of March of the same year.
This edition was released on DVD by Columbia and Sony Pictures in 2005 and issued with the catalogue number 10670.
The cover notes for this 2005 American DVD release read;
'A World War II drama starring Richard Burton and Curt Jurgens as Captain Leith and Major Brand, a pair of British Army officers assigned to execute a daring commando raid on the Libyan stronghold of General Rommel.
Even before the mission begins, the tension between the two is evident. This is further exacerbated when Brand learns that Leith and his wife (Ruth Roman) were once romantically involved. Once the operation is underway, Leith must save the day when Brand's cowardice is revealed, thus putting the mission and the lives of the men in jeopardy. As they struggle through the wastes of the Sahara we learn who will live, who will die and what is the price of glory.'
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The opening titles for the 1957 Columbia Pictures production of the psychological drama, 'Bitter Victory'.
'Sea Wife' Twentieth Century Fox Studios, 1957
The official American DVD release of the DeLuxe Cinemascope Twentieth Century Fox 1957 film, 'Sea Wife', which co-starred Joan Collins, Cy Grant and Basil Sydney.
The film, directed by Bob McNaught and produced by Andre Hakim, was based on the novel 'Sea-Wyf and Biscuit', originally written by James Maurice Scott.
Richard Burton portrays a British R.A.F. officer, Michael Cannon, nicknamed Biscuit, who is marooned on a desert island with three strangers after the cargo ship on which they were travelling as evacuees is torpedoed.
'Sea Wife' had its London premiere on April the 30th, 1957.
This edition was released on DVD by Fox Home Entertainment in 2007 and the bonus features on the disc include an audio commentary by film historian Aubrey Solomon, a photo gallery, restoration comparison footage, the original 1957 theatrical trailer, pages from the 1957 'Sea Wife' press-book and photo galleries.
The musical score was composed by Kenneth V. Jones and Leonard Salzedo and includes the main theme song, 'I'll Find You' which was performed by David Whitfield.
The cover notes to this American edition of 'Sea Wife' read;
'Joan Collins and Richard Burton star in this 'engrossing' tale about four people stranded at sea and their struggle against the elements - and one another - to make it home again. Packed with excitement and suspense, this 'provocative' film is a sure-fire hit!
After a Japanese submarine sinks a British cargo ship out of Singapore, only four passengers make it onto a life raft, an R.A.F. officer (Burton), a middle-aged businessman, the ship's purser and a beautiful nun (Collins), who must keep her vocation a secret. Floating out into the ocean, their only hope lies on a small isle in the distance. But with no supplies, no food and no chance of rescue, will they be able to cheat death once again or does their destiny still lie beneath the waves?'
The film, directed by Bob McNaught and produced by Andre Hakim, was based on the novel 'Sea-Wyf and Biscuit', originally written by James Maurice Scott.
Richard Burton portrays a British R.A.F. officer, Michael Cannon, nicknamed Biscuit, who is marooned on a desert island with three strangers after the cargo ship on which they were travelling as evacuees is torpedoed.
'Sea Wife' had its London premiere on April the 30th, 1957.
This edition was released on DVD by Fox Home Entertainment in 2007 and the bonus features on the disc include an audio commentary by film historian Aubrey Solomon, a photo gallery, restoration comparison footage, the original 1957 theatrical trailer, pages from the 1957 'Sea Wife' press-book and photo galleries.
The musical score was composed by Kenneth V. Jones and Leonard Salzedo and includes the main theme song, 'I'll Find You' which was performed by David Whitfield.
The cover notes to this American edition of 'Sea Wife' read;
'Joan Collins and Richard Burton star in this 'engrossing' tale about four people stranded at sea and their struggle against the elements - and one another - to make it home again. Packed with excitement and suspense, this 'provocative' film is a sure-fire hit!
After a Japanese submarine sinks a British cargo ship out of Singapore, only four passengers make it onto a life raft, an R.A.F. officer (Burton), a middle-aged businessman, the ship's purser and a beautiful nun (Collins), who must keep her vocation a secret. Floating out into the ocean, their only hope lies on a small isle in the distance. But with no supplies, no food and no chance of rescue, will they be able to cheat death once again or does their destiny still lie beneath the waves?'
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The beautiful opening credits for the 1957 Twentieth Century Fox romantic drama 'Sea Wife' co-starring Joan Collins, Basil Sydney and Cy Grant
'Look Back In Anger' Warner Brothers Pictures,1959
A copy of the official Swedish DVD release of the classic 1958 'Kitchen Sink' drama, 'Look Back In Anger'.
With Richard Burton successfully taking on the challenge of being cast as John Osbourne's 'Angry Young Man' Jimmy Porter, the film co-starred Claire Bloom, Gary Raymond, Edith Evans, Donald Pleasence and Mary Ure.
'Look Back In Anger' was directed by Tony Richardson and produced by Harry Saltzman and Gordon Scott and was based on the original play written by John Osbourne.
The musical score was composed and performed by Chris Barber.
'Look Back In Anger' was originally released and distributed by Warner Brothers.
The interior shots were filmed at Elstree Studios, based in Borehamwood, Hertfordshire, in September 1958 whilst the outside scenes were shot in locations such as Holloway, Deptford Market, Dalston railway station and St. Mary's Roman Catholic Cemetery in Kensal Green, London.
The film was nominated for four BAFTA awards and Richard Burton himself was nominated for a Golden Globe.
'Look Back In Anger' premiered in London on the 28th of May, 1959 and opened to American cinema audiences on the 15th of September the same year.
The American magazine, 'Newsweek', reviewing the film in September 1957, wrote;
'Richard Burton plays Jimmy Porter, and he plays him at the top of his lungs as he hurls one cruel imprecation after another at his wife and his existence, he is bad tempered and bad mannered, but withal there is actually something q2uite engaging about him, and there is moving rhetoric even in his most blistering rages'.
This DVD Swedish edition was released by Atlantic Film SE in 2010 and issued with the catalogue number 4784 and is presented in a special 'Limited Edition' card case featuring a reproduction of the original U.K. film poster.
With Richard Burton successfully taking on the challenge of being cast as John Osbourne's 'Angry Young Man' Jimmy Porter, the film co-starred Claire Bloom, Gary Raymond, Edith Evans, Donald Pleasence and Mary Ure.
'Look Back In Anger' was directed by Tony Richardson and produced by Harry Saltzman and Gordon Scott and was based on the original play written by John Osbourne.
The musical score was composed and performed by Chris Barber.
'Look Back In Anger' was originally released and distributed by Warner Brothers.
The interior shots were filmed at Elstree Studios, based in Borehamwood, Hertfordshire, in September 1958 whilst the outside scenes were shot in locations such as Holloway, Deptford Market, Dalston railway station and St. Mary's Roman Catholic Cemetery in Kensal Green, London.
The film was nominated for four BAFTA awards and Richard Burton himself was nominated for a Golden Globe.
'Look Back In Anger' premiered in London on the 28th of May, 1959 and opened to American cinema audiences on the 15th of September the same year.
The American magazine, 'Newsweek', reviewing the film in September 1957, wrote;
'Richard Burton plays Jimmy Porter, and he plays him at the top of his lungs as he hurls one cruel imprecation after another at his wife and his existence, he is bad tempered and bad mannered, but withal there is actually something q2uite engaging about him, and there is moving rhetoric even in his most blistering rages'.
This DVD Swedish edition was released by Atlantic Film SE in 2010 and issued with the catalogue number 4784 and is presented in a special 'Limited Edition' card case featuring a reproduction of the original U.K. film poster.
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The opening credits to the 1959 Woodfall production of John Osborne's 'Look Back In Anger'.
'The Bramble Bush' Warner Brothers Pictures,1960
An unofficial American DVDR recording of the 1960 Warner Brothers drama, 'The Bramble Bush'.
This controversial film of 1960 co-starred Angie Dickinson, Barbara Rush and Jack Carson.
The film was directed by Daniel Petrie and was based on the novel by Charles Mergendahl which in-turn was adapted for the big screen by Milton Sperling and Philip Yordan.
In a film dealing with such subjects as euthanasia, blackmail and adultery, Richard Burton was cast as Guy Montford, a doctor forced to stand trial for the mercy-killing of an old friend.
'The Bramble Bush' opened to American cinema audiences on February the 24th, 1960.
This controversial film of 1960 co-starred Angie Dickinson, Barbara Rush and Jack Carson.
The film was directed by Daniel Petrie and was based on the novel by Charles Mergendahl which in-turn was adapted for the big screen by Milton Sperling and Philip Yordan.
In a film dealing with such subjects as euthanasia, blackmail and adultery, Richard Burton was cast as Guy Montford, a doctor forced to stand trial for the mercy-killing of an old friend.
'The Bramble Bush' opened to American cinema audiences on February the 24th, 1960.
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The stark, yet visually striking, animated opening credits to the 1960 Warner Brothers production of 'The Bramble Bush'.
'Ice Palace' Warner Brothers Pictures, 1960
An unofficial American DVDR recording of the 1960 Warner Brothers film, 'Ice Palace'.
This epic historical film saga from 1960 co-starred Robert Ryan, Carolyn Jones, Jim Backus and Martha Hyer.
The film was directed by Vincent Sherman and produced by Harry Kleiner and was based on the novel of the same name by Edna Ferber.
Richard Burton was cast in the role of Zeb Kennedy in a complicated love-triangle drama, which unfolds over a number of years, in the style similar to Edna Ferber's previous novel, 'Giant', (the film of which starred James Dean and Elizabeth Taylor).
The film also focuses on the development of Alaska from 1918 until it achieved statehood in 1958.
The film was shot, in part, in Petersburg, Alaska as well as at the Mendenhall Glacier.
'Ice Palace' opened to American cinema audiences on the 2nd of January, 1960.
This epic historical film saga from 1960 co-starred Robert Ryan, Carolyn Jones, Jim Backus and Martha Hyer.
The film was directed by Vincent Sherman and produced by Harry Kleiner and was based on the novel of the same name by Edna Ferber.
Richard Burton was cast in the role of Zeb Kennedy in a complicated love-triangle drama, which unfolds over a number of years, in the style similar to Edna Ferber's previous novel, 'Giant', (the film of which starred James Dean and Elizabeth Taylor).
The film also focuses on the development of Alaska from 1918 until it achieved statehood in 1958.
The film was shot, in part, in Petersburg, Alaska as well as at the Mendenhall Glacier.
'Ice Palace' opened to American cinema audiences on the 2nd of January, 1960.
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The opening credits to the spectacular Warner Brothers adaption of the Edna Ferber novel, 'Ice Palace'.
'The Longest Day' Twentieth Century Fox Studios,1962
A copy of the official 'Special Edition' U.K. DVD release of the 1962 classic World War II, D-Day film, 'The Longest Day'.
The film features an array of big name stars such as Henry Fonda, John Wayne, Robert Mitchum, Richard Todd, Rod Steiger, Sean Connery and many more.
Richard Burton, on a break from filming 'Cleopatra', was cast in the small role of Flying Officer David Campbell.
'The Longest Day' was based on the best-selling book of the same name, written by Cornelius Ryan.
The film was directed by Darryl F. Zanuck, Ken Annakin, Andrew Marton, Gerd Oswald and Bernhard Wicki.
'The Longest Day' was released by Twentieth Century Fox, produced by Darryl F. Zanuck and premiered in London on October the 23rd, 1962.
This release is the stunning two-disc 60th Anniversary Special Edition Box Set edition.
The special features included on this collection include two documentaries; 'D-Day-The Longest Day' and 'D-Day Revisited', assorted cinematic trailers and a twelve page commemorative booklet.
'The Longest Day' won two Academy Awards, for 'Best Special Effects' and for 'Best Cinematography' and was nominated for 'Best Art Direction' and 'Best Picture of 1962'. This magnificent film also won a 'Laurel Award' for 'Top Action Drama of 1962'.
The cover notes for this stunning '60th Anniversary Special Edition' DVD read;
'On June 6, 1944 the Allied Invasion of France marked the beginning of the end of Nazi domination over Europe. the attack involved 3,000,000 men, 11,000 planes and 4,000 ships, comprising the largest armada the world has ever seen.
Presented in its original black and white version, 'The Longest Day' is a vivid, hour-by-hour re-creation of this historic event.
Featuring a stellar international cast, and told from the perspectives of both sides, it is a fascinating look at the massive preparations, mistakes and random events that determined the outcome of one of the biggest battles in history. Winner of two Oscars (Special Effects and Cinematography), 'The Longest Day' ranks as one of Hollywood's truly great war films'.
The film features an array of big name stars such as Henry Fonda, John Wayne, Robert Mitchum, Richard Todd, Rod Steiger, Sean Connery and many more.
Richard Burton, on a break from filming 'Cleopatra', was cast in the small role of Flying Officer David Campbell.
'The Longest Day' was based on the best-selling book of the same name, written by Cornelius Ryan.
The film was directed by Darryl F. Zanuck, Ken Annakin, Andrew Marton, Gerd Oswald and Bernhard Wicki.
'The Longest Day' was released by Twentieth Century Fox, produced by Darryl F. Zanuck and premiered in London on October the 23rd, 1962.
This release is the stunning two-disc 60th Anniversary Special Edition Box Set edition.
The special features included on this collection include two documentaries; 'D-Day-The Longest Day' and 'D-Day Revisited', assorted cinematic trailers and a twelve page commemorative booklet.
'The Longest Day' won two Academy Awards, for 'Best Special Effects' and for 'Best Cinematography' and was nominated for 'Best Art Direction' and 'Best Picture of 1962'. This magnificent film also won a 'Laurel Award' for 'Top Action Drama of 1962'.
The cover notes for this stunning '60th Anniversary Special Edition' DVD read;
'On June 6, 1944 the Allied Invasion of France marked the beginning of the end of Nazi domination over Europe. the attack involved 3,000,000 men, 11,000 planes and 4,000 ships, comprising the largest armada the world has ever seen.
Presented in its original black and white version, 'The Longest Day' is a vivid, hour-by-hour re-creation of this historic event.
Featuring a stellar international cast, and told from the perspectives of both sides, it is a fascinating look at the massive preparations, mistakes and random events that determined the outcome of one of the biggest battles in history. Winner of two Oscars (Special Effects and Cinematography), 'The Longest Day' ranks as one of Hollywood's truly great war films'.
'The Longest Day' Twentieth Century Fox Studios,1962 (Version Two)
A copy of the standard British DVD release of Darryl F. Zanuck's Twentieth Century Fox production of 'The Longest Day'.
This edition is presented as a two disc collection with extra features which include three original theatrical trailers for the Twentieth Century Fox films, 'The Longest Day', 'Tora! Tora! Tora!' and 'Patton', and a World War II documentary entitled, 'D-Day Revisited'.
This DVD release also incorporates a wide range of subtitles.
This edition was released by Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment in 2001 and was issued with the catalogue number F1-SGB 01021 DVD.
This edition is presented as a two disc collection with extra features which include three original theatrical trailers for the Twentieth Century Fox films, 'The Longest Day', 'Tora! Tora! Tora!' and 'Patton', and a World War II documentary entitled, 'D-Day Revisited'.
This DVD release also incorporates a wide range of subtitles.
This edition was released by Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment in 2001 and was issued with the catalogue number F1-SGB 01021 DVD.
'The Longest Day' Twentieth Century Fox Studios, 1962 (Version Three)
Another standard British DVD release of the Academy Award winning Twentieth Century Fox production of 'The Longest Day'.
This standard edition was released by Twentiethth Century Fox Home Entertainment as part of their 'Studio Classics' series.
This version was released in 2005 with this differing cover design and in a single-disc format with no extra material and no added subtitles.
Issued by Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment with the catalogue number F1-SGB 01021011009.
This standard edition was released by Twentiethth Century Fox Home Entertainment as part of their 'Studio Classics' series.
This version was released in 2005 with this differing cover design and in a single-disc format with no extra material and no added subtitles.
Issued by Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment with the catalogue number F1-SGB 01021011009.
'Cleopatra' Twentieth Century Fox Studios, 1963
A copy of the absolutely stunning official U.K. 'Special Edition' DVD release of the 1963 epic film 'Cleopatra'.
The film starred Elizabeth Taylor in the title role and co-starred Richard Burton as Mark Anthony, Rex Harrison as Caesar, Roddy McDowell, Martin Landau, Hume Cronyn and George Cole.
This epic film was directed by Joseph L. Mankiewicz and Darryl F. Zanuck and was produced by Walter Wanger with a screenplay written by Sidney Buchman, Ben Hecht, Ranald MacDougall and Joseph L. Mankiewicz.
The film was based on the book 'The Life and Times of Cleopatra', written by Carlo Maurice Franzero.
'Cleopatra' was nominated for nine Academy Awards, winning four, as well as being nominated for four Golden Globes.
'Cleopatra' premiered in New York on June the 12th, 1963 and in London on July the 31st of the same year.
This version is a newly restored edition and is beautifully packaged in a laminated gold effect presentation box with a fold-out gold cover which also includes an eight page booklet. This edition was released as a deluxe edition three disc set and was distributed by Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment with the catalogue number F1OGB 01143DVD.
Packed with bonus material including an audio commentary by Martin Landau, Chris and Tom Mankiewicz and Jack Brodsky, a two hour documentary entitled, ' The Film That Changed History', and a featurette entitled 'The Fourth Star Of Cleopatra'.
Also included are Movietone News- New York Premiere. Movietone News- Hollywood Premiere, three theatrical trailers, three advance trailers and five photo galleries.
The film starred Elizabeth Taylor in the title role and co-starred Richard Burton as Mark Anthony, Rex Harrison as Caesar, Roddy McDowell, Martin Landau, Hume Cronyn and George Cole.
This epic film was directed by Joseph L. Mankiewicz and Darryl F. Zanuck and was produced by Walter Wanger with a screenplay written by Sidney Buchman, Ben Hecht, Ranald MacDougall and Joseph L. Mankiewicz.
The film was based on the book 'The Life and Times of Cleopatra', written by Carlo Maurice Franzero.
'Cleopatra' was nominated for nine Academy Awards, winning four, as well as being nominated for four Golden Globes.
'Cleopatra' premiered in New York on June the 12th, 1963 and in London on July the 31st of the same year.
This version is a newly restored edition and is beautifully packaged in a laminated gold effect presentation box with a fold-out gold cover which also includes an eight page booklet. This edition was released as a deluxe edition three disc set and was distributed by Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment with the catalogue number F1OGB 01143DVD.
Packed with bonus material including an audio commentary by Martin Landau, Chris and Tom Mankiewicz and Jack Brodsky, a two hour documentary entitled, ' The Film That Changed History', and a featurette entitled 'The Fourth Star Of Cleopatra'.
Also included are Movietone News- New York Premiere. Movietone News- Hollywood Premiere, three theatrical trailers, three advance trailers and five photo galleries.
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The opening title screens for the epic Twentieth Century Fox production of 'Cleopatra'.
'Cleopatra' Twentieth Century Fox,1963 (Version Two)
A later, standard U.K. two-disc DVD release of the Richard Burton / Elizabeth Taylor 1963 Twentieth Century Fox production of 'Cleopatra'.
This version was released by Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment in 2013 and was issued with the catalogue number F1-SGB 0114301086.
This edition features a wide range of subtitles and includes audio commentaries from Chris Mankiewicz, Martin Landau and Jack Brodsky.
In an extract taken from the cover notes...
Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton and Rex Harrison star in this sweeping tale of power and betrayal - the legendary story of the Queen of the Nile and her conquest of Julius Caesar and Marc Anthony. Here is the truly unforgettable portrayal of the beguiling beauty who seduced two of Rome's greatest soldiers and changed the course of history. Breath-taking in scope and grandeur, the picture won Oscars for cinematography, art direction, costumes and special effects.
This version was released by Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment in 2013 and was issued with the catalogue number F1-SGB 0114301086.
This edition features a wide range of subtitles and includes audio commentaries from Chris Mankiewicz, Martin Landau and Jack Brodsky.
In an extract taken from the cover notes...
Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton and Rex Harrison star in this sweeping tale of power and betrayal - the legendary story of the Queen of the Nile and her conquest of Julius Caesar and Marc Anthony. Here is the truly unforgettable portrayal of the beguiling beauty who seduced two of Rome's greatest soldiers and changed the course of history. Breath-taking in scope and grandeur, the picture won Oscars for cinematography, art direction, costumes and special effects.
'The V.I.P.s' Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios, 1963
A copy of the official American DVD release of the 1963 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer film, 'The V.I.P.s'.
The film co-starred Elizabeth Taylor, Louis Jourdan, Maggie Smith, Rod Taylor, Orson Welles and Margaret Rutherford.
'The V.I.P.'s' was directed by Anthony Asquith and produced by Anatole de Grunwald.
Richard Burton, fresh from the success and scandal of 'Cleopatra', is cast as millionaire Paul Andros, whose wife Frances, played by Elizabeth Taylor, is attempting to leave him to be with her playboy lover, portrayed by Louis Jourdan.
The screenplay was written by Terence Rattigan and according to Rattigan in later interviews, the screenplay was based on the true story of actress Vivien Leigh's attempt to leave her then husband, Laurence Olivier to be with the actor Peter Finch, only to be thwarted by fog delaying their flight from Heathrow Airport.
Margaret Rutherford, in a wonderful performance, won an Academy Award, as well as a Golden Globe for 'Best Supporting Actress'.
The film was also nominated for two BAFTA's, for 'Best British Cinematography', and to Maggie Smith for 'Best Promising Newcomer'.
The interior shots for 'The V.I.P.'s' were filmed at the Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer British Studios based at Borehamwood, Hertfordshire, whilst the airport scenes were filmed on location at Heathrow Airport in the London Borough of Hillingdon.
The film was released to American cinema-goers on the 19th of September, 1963.
This edition was released on DVD by Warner Brothers and Turner Entertainment as part of a four DVD box-set entitled 'The Burton / Taylor Collection' in 2006 and issued with the catalogue number 79480.
The cover notes read;
'Time to board yet?
For elite passengers awaiting London to U.S. flights, take-off can't occur soon enough. But then fog rolls in, grounding air traffic. Over the next fateful night, the jet-setters must face problems and not flee them.
First-class stars book passage for romantic melodrama mixed with wry comic flourishes in 'The V.I.P.s'. Frances (Elizabeth Taylor) is running from her neglectful husband (Richard Burton) into the arms of suave Marc (Louis Jourdan). Filmmaker Max (Orson Welles) is dodging the taxman. Harried entrepreneur Les (Rod Taylor) is blind to the romantic devotion of his secretary (Maggie Smith). And a dotty Duchess (Margaret Rutherford won an Oscar, Golden Globe and National Board of review Awards for her delightful performance) is determined to save her ancestral manor.'
No bonus material appears on this American DVD release.
This film also saw the first appearance in a Richard Burton film of Brook Williams, the youngest son of Emlyn Williams. Brook Williams had known Richard Burton since he was a child and had come to regard Burton somewhat as a father-figure and in later years, as employer a close friend. He was employed by Richard Burton up until Burton's death, mainly as a personal assistant and advisor. Brook Williams had small cameo roles in fifteen Richard Burton's films, the last film being 'Wagner' in which he was cast in three separate roles.
The film co-starred Elizabeth Taylor, Louis Jourdan, Maggie Smith, Rod Taylor, Orson Welles and Margaret Rutherford.
'The V.I.P.'s' was directed by Anthony Asquith and produced by Anatole de Grunwald.
Richard Burton, fresh from the success and scandal of 'Cleopatra', is cast as millionaire Paul Andros, whose wife Frances, played by Elizabeth Taylor, is attempting to leave him to be with her playboy lover, portrayed by Louis Jourdan.
The screenplay was written by Terence Rattigan and according to Rattigan in later interviews, the screenplay was based on the true story of actress Vivien Leigh's attempt to leave her then husband, Laurence Olivier to be with the actor Peter Finch, only to be thwarted by fog delaying their flight from Heathrow Airport.
Margaret Rutherford, in a wonderful performance, won an Academy Award, as well as a Golden Globe for 'Best Supporting Actress'.
The film was also nominated for two BAFTA's, for 'Best British Cinematography', and to Maggie Smith for 'Best Promising Newcomer'.
The interior shots for 'The V.I.P.'s' were filmed at the Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer British Studios based at Borehamwood, Hertfordshire, whilst the airport scenes were filmed on location at Heathrow Airport in the London Borough of Hillingdon.
The film was released to American cinema-goers on the 19th of September, 1963.
This edition was released on DVD by Warner Brothers and Turner Entertainment as part of a four DVD box-set entitled 'The Burton / Taylor Collection' in 2006 and issued with the catalogue number 79480.
The cover notes read;
'Time to board yet?
For elite passengers awaiting London to U.S. flights, take-off can't occur soon enough. But then fog rolls in, grounding air traffic. Over the next fateful night, the jet-setters must face problems and not flee them.
First-class stars book passage for romantic melodrama mixed with wry comic flourishes in 'The V.I.P.s'. Frances (Elizabeth Taylor) is running from her neglectful husband (Richard Burton) into the arms of suave Marc (Louis Jourdan). Filmmaker Max (Orson Welles) is dodging the taxman. Harried entrepreneur Les (Rod Taylor) is blind to the romantic devotion of his secretary (Maggie Smith). And a dotty Duchess (Margaret Rutherford won an Oscar, Golden Globe and National Board of review Awards for her delightful performance) is determined to save her ancestral manor.'
No bonus material appears on this American DVD release.
This film also saw the first appearance in a Richard Burton film of Brook Williams, the youngest son of Emlyn Williams. Brook Williams had known Richard Burton since he was a child and had come to regard Burton somewhat as a father-figure and in later years, as employer a close friend. He was employed by Richard Burton up until Burton's death, mainly as a personal assistant and advisor. Brook Williams had small cameo roles in fifteen Richard Burton's films, the last film being 'Wagner' in which he was cast in three separate roles.
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The opening titles for the 1964 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer production of 'The V.I.P.s'
'Hamlet' Warner Brothers Pictures / Theatrofilms, 1964
An unofficial American DVDR copy of the 1964 stage production of 'Hamlet', which was directed by John Gielgud (stage production) and Bill Colleran (film) and was produced by Alexander Cohen, Alfred W. Crown and John Heyman.
The original, official DVD release of 'Hamlet' was distributed through Theatrofilms, a division of Warner Brothers.
This spectacular version of Shakespeare's 'Hamlet' co-starred Hume Cronyn, Eileen Herlie, Alfred Drake and George Rose and featured the voice of John Gielgud.
This film was basically a filmed record of the stage production of 'Hamlet' which was performed at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre, New York, on the 30th of June and the 1st of July, 1964 which was shown in cinemas using the process of 'Electronovision' on the 23rd and 24th of September that year. This production of 'Hamlet' was deliberately staged in the style of a 'dress rehearsal' but performed in front of a live audience.
This DVD was restored by Paul Brownstein and Sean Coughlin in collaboration with the National Film and Television Archive of the British Film Institute.
This unofficial DVDR release contains previously unseen Richard Burton interview footage and a short documentary entitled, 'Burton Talks Electronovision'.
All prints of this film were previously thought to have been destroyed by contractual agreement after the initial cinema run of 'Hamlet' in 1964. Luckily however, one copy was discovered hidden in Richard Burton's garage in Switzerland shortly after his death in 1984 by his widow, Sally. In 1995 she graciously agreed to its restoration and release, firstly on VHS Video follow a few years later later on DVD.
The original, official DVD release of 'Hamlet' was distributed through Theatrofilms, a division of Warner Brothers.
This spectacular version of Shakespeare's 'Hamlet' co-starred Hume Cronyn, Eileen Herlie, Alfred Drake and George Rose and featured the voice of John Gielgud.
This film was basically a filmed record of the stage production of 'Hamlet' which was performed at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre, New York, on the 30th of June and the 1st of July, 1964 which was shown in cinemas using the process of 'Electronovision' on the 23rd and 24th of September that year. This production of 'Hamlet' was deliberately staged in the style of a 'dress rehearsal' but performed in front of a live audience.
This DVD was restored by Paul Brownstein and Sean Coughlin in collaboration with the National Film and Television Archive of the British Film Institute.
This unofficial DVDR release contains previously unseen Richard Burton interview footage and a short documentary entitled, 'Burton Talks Electronovision'.
All prints of this film were previously thought to have been destroyed by contractual agreement after the initial cinema run of 'Hamlet' in 1964. Luckily however, one copy was discovered hidden in Richard Burton's garage in Switzerland shortly after his death in 1984 by his widow, Sally. In 1995 she graciously agreed to its restoration and release, firstly on VHS Video follow a few years later later on DVD.
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The theatrical opening title screens for the 1964 warner Brothers production of John Gielgud's 'Hamlet'.
'Becket' Paramount Pictures, 1964
A copy of the official restored DVD release of the highly Oscar nominated Paramount Studio's production of 'Becket'.
This outstanding historical drama co-starred Peter O'Toole, Sian Phillips, John Gielgud, Pamela Brown and Martita Hunt.
Directed by Peter Glenville and based on the play 'Becket or the Honour of God' written by Jean Anouilh, the screenplay for the film was written by Edward Anhalt.
This 1964 production of 'Becket' was produced by Hal B. Wallis.
Richard Burton and Peter O'Toole were both nominated for 'Best Actor' Awards, both losing out, the film however was the winner of two BAFTAs and two Golden Globes.
The musical score for the film was composed by Laurence Rosenthal
The interior filming of 'Becket' took place at Shepperton Studios in Surrey, whilst the exterior historical locations included Alnwick and Bamburgh Castles in Northumberland. The scene in which the meeting took place between Becket and The King of France, portrayed by Sir John Gielgud, was filmed on Bamburgh beach.
'Becket' premiered in London on March the 25th, 1964.
This official U.K. edition was digitally restored to the highest quality by Second Sight in 2007 and issued with the catalogue number 2NDVD 3119.
The bonus material available on this release includes a commentary by Peter O'Toole, a special documentary entitled, 'A Tapestry Of Music', an interview with the editor of 'Becket', Anne V Coates, the original theatrical trailer and a lobby card gallery.
The cover notes for this wonderful and newly restored edition of 'Becket' read;
'Becket' is one of the great historical epics and features one of cinema's most legendary pairings; Richard Burton and Peter O'Toole.
The story tells of the tempestuous friendship between King Henry II (Peter O'Toole) and Thomas Becket (Richard Burton).
The King appoints his trusted companion to the esteemed position of Archbishop of Canterbury, believing his loyalty will give him control over the church. However, Becket takes his new duties seriously and his devotion to God soon brings him into direct conflict with the state and his lifelong friend. Now a thorn in his side, the King exclaims, 'Who will rid me of this meddlesome priest?'
Recently rediscovered and beautifully restored, Peter Glenville's lost masterpiece is available for the first time in almost twenty years.'
This outstanding historical drama co-starred Peter O'Toole, Sian Phillips, John Gielgud, Pamela Brown and Martita Hunt.
Directed by Peter Glenville and based on the play 'Becket or the Honour of God' written by Jean Anouilh, the screenplay for the film was written by Edward Anhalt.
This 1964 production of 'Becket' was produced by Hal B. Wallis.
Richard Burton and Peter O'Toole were both nominated for 'Best Actor' Awards, both losing out, the film however was the winner of two BAFTAs and two Golden Globes.
The musical score for the film was composed by Laurence Rosenthal
The interior filming of 'Becket' took place at Shepperton Studios in Surrey, whilst the exterior historical locations included Alnwick and Bamburgh Castles in Northumberland. The scene in which the meeting took place between Becket and The King of France, portrayed by Sir John Gielgud, was filmed on Bamburgh beach.
'Becket' premiered in London on March the 25th, 1964.
This official U.K. edition was digitally restored to the highest quality by Second Sight in 2007 and issued with the catalogue number 2NDVD 3119.
The bonus material available on this release includes a commentary by Peter O'Toole, a special documentary entitled, 'A Tapestry Of Music', an interview with the editor of 'Becket', Anne V Coates, the original theatrical trailer and a lobby card gallery.
The cover notes for this wonderful and newly restored edition of 'Becket' read;
'Becket' is one of the great historical epics and features one of cinema's most legendary pairings; Richard Burton and Peter O'Toole.
The story tells of the tempestuous friendship between King Henry II (Peter O'Toole) and Thomas Becket (Richard Burton).
The King appoints his trusted companion to the esteemed position of Archbishop of Canterbury, believing his loyalty will give him control over the church. However, Becket takes his new duties seriously and his devotion to God soon brings him into direct conflict with the state and his lifelong friend. Now a thorn in his side, the King exclaims, 'Who will rid me of this meddlesome priest?'
Recently rediscovered and beautifully restored, Peter Glenville's lost masterpiece is available for the first time in almost twenty years.'
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The opening title screens for the 1964 Paramount Pictures historical drama, 'Becket'.
'The Night Of The Iguana' Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, 1964
A copy of the official DVD release of John Huston's masterpiece, 'The Night Of The Iguana'.
This award winning classic Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer film co-starred Ava Gardner, Deborah Kerr and Sue Lyon.
The film was based upon the Tennessee Williams play of the same name which was originally written in 1948.
Richard Burton was cast as as the drunken, de-frocked priest, Laurence Shannon, trying to find his way back to God.
The film was directed by John Huston and was produced by Ray Stark.
'The Night Of The Iguana' won an Academy Award for 'Best Costume Design' and was nominated for 'Best Art Direction' and 'Best Cinematography'.
Ava Gardner won a BAFTA for 'Best Foreign Actress' and the film was also nominated for five Golden Globes and two Golden Laurels.
'The Night Of The Iguana' was released across the United States on August the 6th, 1964.
Thanks to the success of 'The Night Of The iguana', the sleepy town of Puerto Vallarta became, and still remains to this day, a thriving tourist attraction. The Burton's fell in love with the town and bought a stunning villa, Casa Kimberley, and a statue of John Huston was erected there as a mark of the town's respect.
This official U.K. DVD release was issued by Warner Brothers and Turner Entertainment in 2006 with the catalogue number Z1 67742.
The bonus material included on the disc includes a documentary entitled 'Huston's Gamble', a vintage featurette, 'On The Trail Of The Iguana' and a selection of theatrical trailers.
The cover notes for this 2006 release read;
'Man and Woman. Love and lust. Ruin and redemption. One night, they all meet'
"A man has got just so much in his emotional bank balance. But mine has run out."
'In a remote Mexican seaside town, a fallen Episcopal priest struggles to pull his shattered life together. And three women - an earthy hotel owner, an ethereal artist and a hot-eyed willful teenager - can help save him. Or destroy him.
With an outstanding cast headed by Richard Burton, Ava Gardner and Deborah Kerr, direction by legendary film-maker John Huston and a steamy screenplay based on Tennessee Williams' acclaimed stage play, 'The Night of the Iguana' pulses with conflicting passions and a surprising edge of knowing humour. Winner of one Academy Award and nominated for three more, the film explores the dark night of one man's soul - and illuminates the difference between dreams and the bittersweet surrender to reality.'
This award winning classic Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer film co-starred Ava Gardner, Deborah Kerr and Sue Lyon.
The film was based upon the Tennessee Williams play of the same name which was originally written in 1948.
Richard Burton was cast as as the drunken, de-frocked priest, Laurence Shannon, trying to find his way back to God.
The film was directed by John Huston and was produced by Ray Stark.
'The Night Of The Iguana' won an Academy Award for 'Best Costume Design' and was nominated for 'Best Art Direction' and 'Best Cinematography'.
Ava Gardner won a BAFTA for 'Best Foreign Actress' and the film was also nominated for five Golden Globes and two Golden Laurels.
'The Night Of The Iguana' was released across the United States on August the 6th, 1964.
Thanks to the success of 'The Night Of The iguana', the sleepy town of Puerto Vallarta became, and still remains to this day, a thriving tourist attraction. The Burton's fell in love with the town and bought a stunning villa, Casa Kimberley, and a statue of John Huston was erected there as a mark of the town's respect.
This official U.K. DVD release was issued by Warner Brothers and Turner Entertainment in 2006 with the catalogue number Z1 67742.
The bonus material included on the disc includes a documentary entitled 'Huston's Gamble', a vintage featurette, 'On The Trail Of The Iguana' and a selection of theatrical trailers.
The cover notes for this 2006 release read;
'Man and Woman. Love and lust. Ruin and redemption. One night, they all meet'
"A man has got just so much in his emotional bank balance. But mine has run out."
'In a remote Mexican seaside town, a fallen Episcopal priest struggles to pull his shattered life together. And three women - an earthy hotel owner, an ethereal artist and a hot-eyed willful teenager - can help save him. Or destroy him.
With an outstanding cast headed by Richard Burton, Ava Gardner and Deborah Kerr, direction by legendary film-maker John Huston and a steamy screenplay based on Tennessee Williams' acclaimed stage play, 'The Night of the Iguana' pulses with conflicting passions and a surprising edge of knowing humour. Winner of one Academy Award and nominated for three more, the film explores the dark night of one man's soul - and illuminates the difference between dreams and the bittersweet surrender to reality.'
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The striking title screen to John Huston's incredible adaption of the Tennessee Williams stage play, The Night of the Iguana'.
'Zulu' Paramount Pictures,1964
A copy of he official U.K. 'Special Collectors Edition' DVD release of the classic 1964 film, 'Zulu'.
The film starred Stanley Baker, Michael Caine, Jack Hawkins and Ivor Emmanuel, who was also from Richard Burton's birthplace of Pontrhydyfen.
'Zulu' was directed by Cy Endfield, who also wrote the screenplay, along with John Prebble, and the film itself was produced by Stanley Baker.
The musical score was written by the legendary composer John Barry.
'Zulu' was released in cinemas on the 22nd of January, 1964.
This special edition DVD was released by Paramount Pictures in 2002 and was issued with the catalogue number PHE 8086.
The bonus features included on this 'Special Edition' DVD include the original 1964 theatrical trailer, an audio commentary and a short documentary entitled, 'The Making Of Zulu'.
This official DVD release of 'Zulu' is only included in this list of Richard Burton films due to the fact that Richard Burton narrates the introduction to the film as well as the 'Victory Roll' during the end credits. Richard Burton's recording of these took place in Paris on the 21st of September, 1963.
The film starred Stanley Baker, Michael Caine, Jack Hawkins and Ivor Emmanuel, who was also from Richard Burton's birthplace of Pontrhydyfen.
'Zulu' was directed by Cy Endfield, who also wrote the screenplay, along with John Prebble, and the film itself was produced by Stanley Baker.
The musical score was written by the legendary composer John Barry.
'Zulu' was released in cinemas on the 22nd of January, 1964.
This special edition DVD was released by Paramount Pictures in 2002 and was issued with the catalogue number PHE 8086.
The bonus features included on this 'Special Edition' DVD include the original 1964 theatrical trailer, an audio commentary and a short documentary entitled, 'The Making Of Zulu'.
This official DVD release of 'Zulu' is only included in this list of Richard Burton films due to the fact that Richard Burton narrates the introduction to the film as well as the 'Victory Roll' during the end credits. Richard Burton's recording of these took place in Paris on the 21st of September, 1963.
'The Spy Who Came In From The Cold'
Paramount Pictures, 1965
A copy of the official DVD release of the classic Cold War thriller, 'The Spy Who Came In From The Cold'.
The film co-starred Claire Bloom, Michael Hordern, Osker Werner and Robert Hardy.
The film was directed by Martin Ritt and was adapted from the John Le Carre's 1963 spy novel by screenwriters Paul Dehn and Guy Trosper.
The interior filming for the film took place at the Ardmore Studios, County Wicklow, Ireland, and Shepperton Studios, Surrey, whilst various U.K. locations were chosen for the exterior shooting including Wormwood Scrubs Prison, Battersea Park, Fleet Street, Westminster and Trafalger Square. Further afield, the locations included Amsterdam Airport, Noordwijk in the Netherlands and Smithfield Market in Dublin.
The film of 'The Spy Who Came In From The Cold' was released by Paramount Pictures and produced by Salem Films.
Richard Burton was nominated for his fourth 'Best Actor Award' for his portrayal of the spy Alec Leamas, but had to settle for a BAFTA for 'Best British Actor' instead.
The film was released to American cinema audiences on the 16th of December, 1965, followed by a London Premiere on the 13th of January, 1966.
The 'New Yorker', reviewing the film in January, 1966, was to write;
'As the burnt-out hero, Richard Burton is superb. He has shaken off the lethargy with which he approached his past movie roles, and has made himself over into Leamas by some secret process of shrinkage and premature aging; the result is a masterly portrait of a small, sagging, exhausted and embittered man'.
This official U.K. DVD edition was released by Paramount DVD in 2006 and was issued with the catalogue number NC 1024976. The cover notes read;
'Forget James Bond...and step into the dour and chilling world of spies and counterspies. 'Oscar' nominee Richard Burton is the burnt-out British agent who refuses to 'come in from the cold' to take a desk job - but instead launches into the most dangerous assignment of his career, stalking East German agent (and Golden Globe winner) Oskar Werner. John Le Carre's best-selling novel provides the basis for this breath-taking thriller of espionage, intrigue, crosses and double-crosses. First-rate performances from the entire cast are matched by a tension-packed and brilliantly plotted screenplay, with masterful direction from Martin Ritt.'
The film co-starred Claire Bloom, Michael Hordern, Osker Werner and Robert Hardy.
The film was directed by Martin Ritt and was adapted from the John Le Carre's 1963 spy novel by screenwriters Paul Dehn and Guy Trosper.
The interior filming for the film took place at the Ardmore Studios, County Wicklow, Ireland, and Shepperton Studios, Surrey, whilst various U.K. locations were chosen for the exterior shooting including Wormwood Scrubs Prison, Battersea Park, Fleet Street, Westminster and Trafalger Square. Further afield, the locations included Amsterdam Airport, Noordwijk in the Netherlands and Smithfield Market in Dublin.
The film of 'The Spy Who Came In From The Cold' was released by Paramount Pictures and produced by Salem Films.
Richard Burton was nominated for his fourth 'Best Actor Award' for his portrayal of the spy Alec Leamas, but had to settle for a BAFTA for 'Best British Actor' instead.
The film was released to American cinema audiences on the 16th of December, 1965, followed by a London Premiere on the 13th of January, 1966.
The 'New Yorker', reviewing the film in January, 1966, was to write;
'As the burnt-out hero, Richard Burton is superb. He has shaken off the lethargy with which he approached his past movie roles, and has made himself over into Leamas by some secret process of shrinkage and premature aging; the result is a masterly portrait of a small, sagging, exhausted and embittered man'.
This official U.K. DVD edition was released by Paramount DVD in 2006 and was issued with the catalogue number NC 1024976. The cover notes read;
'Forget James Bond...and step into the dour and chilling world of spies and counterspies. 'Oscar' nominee Richard Burton is the burnt-out British agent who refuses to 'come in from the cold' to take a desk job - but instead launches into the most dangerous assignment of his career, stalking East German agent (and Golden Globe winner) Oskar Werner. John Le Carre's best-selling novel provides the basis for this breath-taking thriller of espionage, intrigue, crosses and double-crosses. First-rate performances from the entire cast are matched by a tension-packed and brilliantly plotted screenplay, with masterful direction from Martin Ritt.'
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The bleak, yet striking, opening credits from the superb Cold-War Spy Thriller, 'The Spy Who Came In From The Cold.'
'The Sandpiper' Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer / Filmways, 1965
A copy of the official American DVD release of the Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor romantic drama, 'The Sandpiper'.
The film co-starred Eva Marie Saint and Charles Bronson.
'The Sandpiper' was directed by Vincente Minnelli and produced by Martin Ransohoff, on whose short story the film was based. The screenplay for the film was written by Irene Kamp.
Richard Burton was cast in the role of Dr. Edward Hewitt, the headmaster of an Episcopal boarding school, who embarks on a complicated extra-marital affair with an artistic single mother, Laura Reynolds, played by Elizabeth Taylor.
'The Sandpiper' received an Academy Award, a Grammy and a Golden Laurel for 'Best Original Song', the haunting, 'The Shadow Of Your Smile'. The musical score was also nominated for a Golden Globe.
'The Sandpiper' was released to American cinema audiences on June the 3rd, 1965 and had the U.K. Gala Premiere at The Empire, Leicester Square on the 8th of September the same year.
This official DVD edition was released on DVD by Warner Brothers and Turner Entertainment as part of the four disc box-set collection entitled, 'The Burton / Taylor Collection' in 2006 and issued with the catalogue number 79479.
The bonus material which features on this official DVD release includes two featurettes, 'The Big Sur', narrated by Richard Burton and 'A Statue For The Sandpiper' which focuses on the wooden carving of a naked Elizabeth Taylor which features as an integral part of the 'Sandpiper' story-line.
The cover notes to this American DVD edition of 'The Sandpiper' read;
'Laura Reynolds (Elizabeth Taylor) is a free spirit, living in rustic Bohemian splendour in an oceanfront Big Sur home. Minister Edward Hewitt (Richard Burton), a school headmaster, lives a life as constrained as his clerical collar. Now his world is changing. Blessed with a devoted wife (Eva Marie Saint), he must come to terms with his love for another woman, Any guess who she is?
Love was in the air. So was music in the form of 1965's Oscar-winning 'Best Song', The Shadow of Your Smile. And fans were at theatres, eager to witness on screen the charismatic chemistry that made Taylor and Burton the decade's most scrutinised off-screen couple. Academy Award winner Vincente Minnelli directs this bittersweet tale that was one of its year's top box-office hits'.
The film co-starred Eva Marie Saint and Charles Bronson.
'The Sandpiper' was directed by Vincente Minnelli and produced by Martin Ransohoff, on whose short story the film was based. The screenplay for the film was written by Irene Kamp.
Richard Burton was cast in the role of Dr. Edward Hewitt, the headmaster of an Episcopal boarding school, who embarks on a complicated extra-marital affair with an artistic single mother, Laura Reynolds, played by Elizabeth Taylor.
'The Sandpiper' received an Academy Award, a Grammy and a Golden Laurel for 'Best Original Song', the haunting, 'The Shadow Of Your Smile'. The musical score was also nominated for a Golden Globe.
'The Sandpiper' was released to American cinema audiences on June the 3rd, 1965 and had the U.K. Gala Premiere at The Empire, Leicester Square on the 8th of September the same year.
This official DVD edition was released on DVD by Warner Brothers and Turner Entertainment as part of the four disc box-set collection entitled, 'The Burton / Taylor Collection' in 2006 and issued with the catalogue number 79479.
The bonus material which features on this official DVD release includes two featurettes, 'The Big Sur', narrated by Richard Burton and 'A Statue For The Sandpiper' which focuses on the wooden carving of a naked Elizabeth Taylor which features as an integral part of the 'Sandpiper' story-line.
The cover notes to this American DVD edition of 'The Sandpiper' read;
'Laura Reynolds (Elizabeth Taylor) is a free spirit, living in rustic Bohemian splendour in an oceanfront Big Sur home. Minister Edward Hewitt (Richard Burton), a school headmaster, lives a life as constrained as his clerical collar. Now his world is changing. Blessed with a devoted wife (Eva Marie Saint), he must come to terms with his love for another woman, Any guess who she is?
Love was in the air. So was music in the form of 1965's Oscar-winning 'Best Song', The Shadow of Your Smile. And fans were at theatres, eager to witness on screen the charismatic chemistry that made Taylor and Burton the decade's most scrutinised off-screen couple. Academy Award winner Vincente Minnelli directs this bittersweet tale that was one of its year's top box-office hits'.
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The stunning opening credits from the 1965 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer romantic drama, 'The Sandpiper'
'Who's Afraid Of Virginia Woolf ?' Warner Brothers, 1966
An official copy of the stunning two-disc 'Special Edition' DVD release of the Warner Brothers production of Edward Albee's, 'Who's Afraid Of Virginia Woolf ?'
This film masterpiece co-starred Elizabeth Taylor, George Segal and Sandy Dennis.
The film was directed by Mike Nichols from an original screenplay written by Ernest Lehman, based on the historic and controversial play by Edward Albee.
'Who's Afraid Of Virginia Woolf' was nominated for thirteen Academy Awards, winning five including 'Best Actress' for Elizabeth Taylor and 'Best Supporting Actress' for Sandy Dennis.
In 1966, 'Who's Afraid Of Virginia Woolf?' was the only film ever to be nominated in every eligible category at the Academy Awards.
'Newsweek' wrote of Burton's performance in this powerful drama;
"Burton's performance is a marvel of disciplined compassion: a man, no longer young, who despises himself but still reaches spasmodically for whatever tenderness he can find from whatever source he can tap. With the self-contained authority of a great actor, he plays the part as if no one in the world has ever heard of Richard Burton."
The original film was released to American cinema audiences on June the 22nd, 1966.
This 'Special Edition' DVD is part of the American four-disc box-set, 'The Burton /Taylor Collection', which was released by Warner Brothers and Turner Entertainment in 2006 and issued with the catalogue number 82109.
The cover notes to this outstanding DVD release read;
'Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton are ideal as malevolent marrieds Martha and George in first-time film director Mike Nichols' searing film of Edward Albee's ground-breaking 'Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?'
Taylor won her second Academy Award (and New York Film Critics, National Board of review and British Film Academy Best Actress Awards). Burton matches her as her emotionally spent spouse. And George Segal and 'Best Supporting Actress Oscar winner Sandy Dennis score as another couple straying into their destructive path. The movie won a total of five Academy Awards and remains after forty years a taboo-toppling landmark.'
The many fabulous bonus features which appear on this 'Special Edition' DVD include an audio commentary by director Mike Nichols, an Elizabeth Taylor documentary entitled, 'An Intimate Portrait', two featurettes, 'A Daring Work Of Raw Excellence' and 'Too Shocking For It's Time', Mike Nichols Interview Footage from 1966, Sandy Dennis's screen test for the role of Honey and a selection of theatrical trailers for the Warner Brothers Burton / Taylor DVD Collection.
This film masterpiece co-starred Elizabeth Taylor, George Segal and Sandy Dennis.
The film was directed by Mike Nichols from an original screenplay written by Ernest Lehman, based on the historic and controversial play by Edward Albee.
'Who's Afraid Of Virginia Woolf' was nominated for thirteen Academy Awards, winning five including 'Best Actress' for Elizabeth Taylor and 'Best Supporting Actress' for Sandy Dennis.
In 1966, 'Who's Afraid Of Virginia Woolf?' was the only film ever to be nominated in every eligible category at the Academy Awards.
'Newsweek' wrote of Burton's performance in this powerful drama;
"Burton's performance is a marvel of disciplined compassion: a man, no longer young, who despises himself but still reaches spasmodically for whatever tenderness he can find from whatever source he can tap. With the self-contained authority of a great actor, he plays the part as if no one in the world has ever heard of Richard Burton."
The original film was released to American cinema audiences on June the 22nd, 1966.
This 'Special Edition' DVD is part of the American four-disc box-set, 'The Burton /Taylor Collection', which was released by Warner Brothers and Turner Entertainment in 2006 and issued with the catalogue number 82109.
The cover notes to this outstanding DVD release read;
'Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton are ideal as malevolent marrieds Martha and George in first-time film director Mike Nichols' searing film of Edward Albee's ground-breaking 'Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?'
Taylor won her second Academy Award (and New York Film Critics, National Board of review and British Film Academy Best Actress Awards). Burton matches her as her emotionally spent spouse. And George Segal and 'Best Supporting Actress Oscar winner Sandy Dennis score as another couple straying into their destructive path. The movie won a total of five Academy Awards and remains after forty years a taboo-toppling landmark.'
The many fabulous bonus features which appear on this 'Special Edition' DVD include an audio commentary by director Mike Nichols, an Elizabeth Taylor documentary entitled, 'An Intimate Portrait', two featurettes, 'A Daring Work Of Raw Excellence' and 'Too Shocking For It's Time', Mike Nichols Interview Footage from 1966, Sandy Dennis's screen test for the role of Honey and a selection of theatrical trailers for the Warner Brothers Burton / Taylor DVD Collection.
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The opening credits to the controversial and ground-breaking 1966 Warner Brothers film, 'Who's Afraid Of Virginia Woolf?'
The Richard Burton & Elizabeth Taylor Film Collection Cover
Warner Brothers, 2006
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The cover for the 2006 Warner Brothers Box-Set Edition of 'The Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton DVD Film Collection'.
'The Taming Of The Shrew' Columbia Pictures, 1967
A copy of the official DVD release of the Columbia Pictures film, 'The Taming Of The Shrew'.
This marvellous film version of the William Shakespeare comedy play co-starred Elizabeth Taylor, Cyril Cusack, Victor Spinetti, Michael York and Natasha Pyne.
The screenplay for the film was written by Paul Dehn and was based on the William Shakespeare comedy of the same name.
Richard Burton was superbly cast in the role of Petruchio and Elizabeth Taylor perfectly cast as Kate.
The film was directed by Franco Zeffirelli and produced by Royal Films International.
'The Taming Of The Shrew' was nominated for an Academy Award for 'Best Costume Design and Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor were both nominated for BAFTA's for 'Best British Actor and Actress'.
The film was shot entirely in Italy at the Dino De Laurentis Cinematografica Studios in Rome.
'The Taming Of The Shrew' premiered in U.K. cinemas on March the 3rd, 1967.
This U.K. edition was released on DVD by Columbia Tristar Home Video in 2001 and issued with the catalogue number CDR 10015.
The bonus material on this release include a vintage 'Making Of'' featurette, the original theatrical trailer and mini-biographies of the two main stars.
The cover notes for this 2001 DVD release read;
'Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton sparkle and amuse as Katharina and Petruchio in William Shakespeare's comic look at male chauvinism and women's lib in the 16th century. Petruchio, a poverty-stricken gentleman from Verona, journey's to Padua in search of a wealthy wife. There he encounters the fiery Katharina, a self-willed shrew who leads Petruchio on a merry chase before he successfully circumvents her attempts to avoid marriage. Their honeymoon becomes a humourous battle of wit and insult, with Kate as determined to maintain her independence as Petruchio is to 'tame' her. When the embattled couple returns to Padua, Kate helps Petruchio win a wager that his is the most obedient of wives. But in reality, the shrewish Kate has found a more effective way to dominate her mate.'
This marvellous film version of the William Shakespeare comedy play co-starred Elizabeth Taylor, Cyril Cusack, Victor Spinetti, Michael York and Natasha Pyne.
The screenplay for the film was written by Paul Dehn and was based on the William Shakespeare comedy of the same name.
Richard Burton was superbly cast in the role of Petruchio and Elizabeth Taylor perfectly cast as Kate.
The film was directed by Franco Zeffirelli and produced by Royal Films International.
'The Taming Of The Shrew' was nominated for an Academy Award for 'Best Costume Design and Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor were both nominated for BAFTA's for 'Best British Actor and Actress'.
The film was shot entirely in Italy at the Dino De Laurentis Cinematografica Studios in Rome.
'The Taming Of The Shrew' premiered in U.K. cinemas on March the 3rd, 1967.
This U.K. edition was released on DVD by Columbia Tristar Home Video in 2001 and issued with the catalogue number CDR 10015.
The bonus material on this release include a vintage 'Making Of'' featurette, the original theatrical trailer and mini-biographies of the two main stars.
The cover notes for this 2001 DVD release read;
'Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton sparkle and amuse as Katharina and Petruchio in William Shakespeare's comic look at male chauvinism and women's lib in the 16th century. Petruchio, a poverty-stricken gentleman from Verona, journey's to Padua in search of a wealthy wife. There he encounters the fiery Katharina, a self-willed shrew who leads Petruchio on a merry chase before he successfully circumvents her attempts to avoid marriage. Their honeymoon becomes a humourous battle of wit and insult, with Kate as determined to maintain her independence as Petruchio is to 'tame' her. When the embattled couple returns to Padua, Kate helps Petruchio win a wager that his is the most obedient of wives. But in reality, the shrewish Kate has found a more effective way to dominate her mate.'
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The opening credits to Franco Zeffirelli's spectacular 1967 adaption of William Shakespeare's 'The Taming of the Shrew'
'Doctor Faustus' Columbia Pictures, 1967
An official Korean DVD release of the 1967 Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor film, 'Doctor Faustus'.
Richard Burton financed this production of Christopher Marlowe's 'The Tragical History Of Doctor Faustus' which co-starred Elizabeth Taylor in a non-speaking role as Helen Of Troy, Nevill Coghill and members of the Oxford University Dramatic Society.
The film was co-produced and directed by Richard Burton and Nevill Coghill and was filmed entirely in Rome.
'Doctor Faustus' had its official U.K. premiere on the 10th of October 1967 followed by a release to American audiences on the 6th of February, 1968.
No bonus material is included on this DVD.
Richard Burton financed this production of Christopher Marlowe's 'The Tragical History Of Doctor Faustus' which co-starred Elizabeth Taylor in a non-speaking role as Helen Of Troy, Nevill Coghill and members of the Oxford University Dramatic Society.
The film was co-produced and directed by Richard Burton and Nevill Coghill and was filmed entirely in Rome.
'Doctor Faustus' had its official U.K. premiere on the 10th of October 1967 followed by a release to American audiences on the 6th of February, 1968.
No bonus material is included on this DVD.
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The opening title screens for the 1967 Columbia Pictures production of 'Doctor Faustus', Directed by Nevill Coghill and Richard Burton
'The Comedians' Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios,1967
A copy of an official American DVD release of the Warner Brothers film, 'The Comedians'.
The film co-starred Elizabeth Taylor, Alec Guinness, Peter Ustinov and Lillian Gish and was directed and produced by Peter Glenville.
'The Comedians' was based upon the novel by Graham Greene, who also wrote the screenplay for this film adaption.
Despite it's title, 'The Comedians' is a dark film, set in Haiti during the Papa Doc regime. Richard Burton was cast as Brown, a hotel owner who, apart from having the complication of having an affair with the wife of the Uruguayan ambassador, his life is also blighted by his inability to sell his hotel and flee Haiti, which to his despair is sinking deeper and deeper in barbarism and poverty.
'The Comedians' was filmed in The Republic of Benin, West Africa and in Nice, France.
Lillian Gish was nominated for a Golden Globe for 'Best Supporting Actress'.
'The Comedians' was released to cinema audiences on October the 31st, 1967.
This official copy was released on DVD by Warner Brothers and Turner Entertainment in 2006 as part of the four disc box-set, 'The Burton / Taylor Collection' which was issued with the catalogue number 79481.
A bonus featurette entitled 'The Comedians In Africa' is the only bonus material which features on this American DVD.
The synopsis of the film, taken from the cover notes, reads;
'A poor nation can mean riches...for the corrupt. In an absorbing screenplay based on his novel, master of intrigue Graham Greene (The Third Man, The Quiet American) sets passions both romantic and political against the backdrop of Haiti during the brutal rule of Papa Doc Duvalier, Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor lead a who's-who cast of stars who portray diplomats, imposters, adulterers, hanger's-on, the indolent and even a pair of pacifist vegetarians - all caught up in the strongman's reign of terror. From the discovery of a dead body in the bottom of a pool to a harrowing showdown with Papa Doc's ruthless secret police, 'The Comedians' tells a story as disturbing and redeeming as mankind's conflicted heart'.
The film co-starred Elizabeth Taylor, Alec Guinness, Peter Ustinov and Lillian Gish and was directed and produced by Peter Glenville.
'The Comedians' was based upon the novel by Graham Greene, who also wrote the screenplay for this film adaption.
Despite it's title, 'The Comedians' is a dark film, set in Haiti during the Papa Doc regime. Richard Burton was cast as Brown, a hotel owner who, apart from having the complication of having an affair with the wife of the Uruguayan ambassador, his life is also blighted by his inability to sell his hotel and flee Haiti, which to his despair is sinking deeper and deeper in barbarism and poverty.
'The Comedians' was filmed in The Republic of Benin, West Africa and in Nice, France.
Lillian Gish was nominated for a Golden Globe for 'Best Supporting Actress'.
'The Comedians' was released to cinema audiences on October the 31st, 1967.
This official copy was released on DVD by Warner Brothers and Turner Entertainment in 2006 as part of the four disc box-set, 'The Burton / Taylor Collection' which was issued with the catalogue number 79481.
A bonus featurette entitled 'The Comedians In Africa' is the only bonus material which features on this American DVD.
The synopsis of the film, taken from the cover notes, reads;
'A poor nation can mean riches...for the corrupt. In an absorbing screenplay based on his novel, master of intrigue Graham Greene (The Third Man, The Quiet American) sets passions both romantic and political against the backdrop of Haiti during the brutal rule of Papa Doc Duvalier, Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor lead a who's-who cast of stars who portray diplomats, imposters, adulterers, hanger's-on, the indolent and even a pair of pacifist vegetarians - all caught up in the strongman's reign of terror. From the discovery of a dead body in the bottom of a pool to a harrowing showdown with Papa Doc's ruthless secret police, 'The Comedians' tells a story as disturbing and redeeming as mankind's conflicted heart'.
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The opening titles for the 1967 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios production of 'The Comedians'.
'Where Eagles Dare' Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios, 1968
A copy of the official U.K. DVD release of the Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer World War II classic drama, 'Where Eagles Dare'.
Richard Burton was cast in the role of Major John Smith, leading a group of commandos on a mission to infiltrate a Nazi fortress high in the Bavarian Alps.
This classic film also starred Clint Eastwood, Mary Ure, Michael Hordern and Ingrid Pitt.
'Where Eagles dare' was directed by Brian G. Hutton and was based on the best-selling novel of the same name by Alistair MacLean, who also wrote the screenplay for this film adaption.
The interior filming took place at the Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer British studios located at Borehamwood, Hertfordshire and the stunning exterior locations featured in the film were filmed in Salzburg, Austria.
'Where Eagles Dare' was produced by Elliott Kastner and was nominated for two Laurel Awards.
'Where Eagles Dare' had it's London premiere on the 4th of December, 1968.
This official edition was released on DVD by Warner Brothers and Turner Entertainment in 2010 and issued with the catalogue number VFC31384.
The bonus material which features on this release includes two featurettes, 'Where Eagles Dare: On Location' and 'The Making Of Where Eagles Dare' and the original 1969 theatrical trailer.
Richard Burton was cast in the role of Major John Smith, leading a group of commandos on a mission to infiltrate a Nazi fortress high in the Bavarian Alps.
This classic film also starred Clint Eastwood, Mary Ure, Michael Hordern and Ingrid Pitt.
'Where Eagles dare' was directed by Brian G. Hutton and was based on the best-selling novel of the same name by Alistair MacLean, who also wrote the screenplay for this film adaption.
The interior filming took place at the Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer British studios located at Borehamwood, Hertfordshire and the stunning exterior locations featured in the film were filmed in Salzburg, Austria.
'Where Eagles Dare' was produced by Elliott Kastner and was nominated for two Laurel Awards.
'Where Eagles Dare' had it's London premiere on the 4th of December, 1968.
This official edition was released on DVD by Warner Brothers and Turner Entertainment in 2010 and issued with the catalogue number VFC31384.
The bonus material which features on this release includes two featurettes, 'Where Eagles Dare: On Location' and 'The Making Of Where Eagles Dare' and the original 1969 theatrical trailer.
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The striking opening credits for the 1969 Metro-Goldwyn -Mayer Wartime thriller, 'Where Eagles Dare'.
'Where Eagles Dare' Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios, 1968 (Version Two)
An earlier, differently packaged release of the 1968 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, World War II adventure film, 'Where Eagles Dare'.
This official edition was released as part of the Warner Brother's 'Essential War Collection' series in 2005 by Warner Brothers and Turner Entertainment and issued with the catalogue number Z1-65186.
This version contains the same bonus features as the above release, namely the 'Making Of' and 'On Location: Where Eagles Dare' featurettes and the original cinematic trailer.
This 2005 edition was issued in a special 'Limited Edition' laminated presentation card cover.
The cover notes for this 2005 Warner Brothers release read;
'The mission is clear. Get in. Get the General. Get out. Stay alive. But high command should issue an additional imperative. Commandos charged with rescuing a U.S. General from a heavily guarded Alpine fortress should also be told to trust nothing - including the search-and-rescue orders they just received.
Clint Eastwood and Richard Burton go 'Where Eagles Dare' in this wildly suspenseful and twist-filled hit written by action-master Alistair MacLean and directed by Brian G. Hutton. Known for his incisive dramatic roles, Burton ventures into the realm of movie pyrotechnics with powerful effectiveness. And Eastwood's remarkable cool-fire presence heightens one searing action sequence after another. The film soared like an eagle at the box-office too. It became Eastwood's then-largest hit and it's studio's number-one money-maker of the year.'
This official edition was released as part of the Warner Brother's 'Essential War Collection' series in 2005 by Warner Brothers and Turner Entertainment and issued with the catalogue number Z1-65186.
This version contains the same bonus features as the above release, namely the 'Making Of' and 'On Location: Where Eagles Dare' featurettes and the original cinematic trailer.
This 2005 edition was issued in a special 'Limited Edition' laminated presentation card cover.
The cover notes for this 2005 Warner Brothers release read;
'The mission is clear. Get in. Get the General. Get out. Stay alive. But high command should issue an additional imperative. Commandos charged with rescuing a U.S. General from a heavily guarded Alpine fortress should also be told to trust nothing - including the search-and-rescue orders they just received.
Clint Eastwood and Richard Burton go 'Where Eagles Dare' in this wildly suspenseful and twist-filled hit written by action-master Alistair MacLean and directed by Brian G. Hutton. Known for his incisive dramatic roles, Burton ventures into the realm of movie pyrotechnics with powerful effectiveness. And Eastwood's remarkable cool-fire presence heightens one searing action sequence after another. The film soared like an eagle at the box-office too. It became Eastwood's then-largest hit and it's studio's number-one money-maker of the year.'
'Boom!' Universal Pictures, 1968
A copy of the official U.K. DVD release of the 1968 film, 'Boom!'
This obscure film co-starred Elizabeth Taylor and Noel Coward.
The film, directed by Joseph Losey and produced by John Heyman was based on the Tennessee Williams play, 'The Milk Train Doesn't Stop Here Anymore'.
Richard Burton plays a mysterious character called Chris Flanders, who may or may not be 'The Angel Of Death', sent to visit the terminally ill Flora 'Sissy' Goforth ( played by Elizabeth Taylor) who is living in a mansion on a secluded island.
The interior shots for 'Boom!' were filmed at the Dino De Laurentis Studios, Rome whilst the incredibly beautiful location chosen for the exterior filming was located in Sardinia.
The musical score was written by John Barry.
'Boom!' was released to rather confused cinema audiences on May the 28th, 1968.
This version was released on DVD in 2009 by Universal and Second Sight DVD and issued with the catalogue number 2NDVD3169. The synopsis of the film, taken from the cover notes, reads;
'The wealthy, self-absorbed eccentric Sissy Goforth has taken up residence on a secluded Mediterranean island where she dictates her memoirs, flies into rages and screams insults at her servants. Her health now failing, she drinks, takes pills and has a doctor give her injections to ease the pain. Into her reclusive life comes a stranger who manages to climb to her villa and survive a guard dog attack before introducing himself as a poet. Though attracted by the visitor she soon discovers he has a reputation for appearing when wealthy women are about to meet their demise and is known locally as the Angel of Death.'
This obscure film co-starred Elizabeth Taylor and Noel Coward.
The film, directed by Joseph Losey and produced by John Heyman was based on the Tennessee Williams play, 'The Milk Train Doesn't Stop Here Anymore'.
Richard Burton plays a mysterious character called Chris Flanders, who may or may not be 'The Angel Of Death', sent to visit the terminally ill Flora 'Sissy' Goforth ( played by Elizabeth Taylor) who is living in a mansion on a secluded island.
The interior shots for 'Boom!' were filmed at the Dino De Laurentis Studios, Rome whilst the incredibly beautiful location chosen for the exterior filming was located in Sardinia.
The musical score was written by John Barry.
'Boom!' was released to rather confused cinema audiences on May the 28th, 1968.
This version was released on DVD in 2009 by Universal and Second Sight DVD and issued with the catalogue number 2NDVD3169. The synopsis of the film, taken from the cover notes, reads;
'The wealthy, self-absorbed eccentric Sissy Goforth has taken up residence on a secluded Mediterranean island where she dictates her memoirs, flies into rages and screams insults at her servants. Her health now failing, she drinks, takes pills and has a doctor give her injections to ease the pain. Into her reclusive life comes a stranger who manages to climb to her villa and survive a guard dog attack before introducing himself as a poet. Though attracted by the visitor she soon discovers he has a reputation for appearing when wealthy women are about to meet their demise and is known locally as the Angel of Death.'
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The title screens for the 1968 John Heyman production of the film version of 'Boom!'.
'Candy' Cinerama Releasing Corporation, 1968
A copy of an unofficial American DVDR of the 1968 film, 'Candy'.
The film was directed by Christian Marquand and produced by Robert Haggiag.
The screenplay for 'Candy' was written by Buck Henry and was based on the 1958 novel of the same name, originally written by Terry Southern.
Richard Burton was cast in a minor role as the eccentric poet MacPhisto, an over-the-top parody of Dylan Thomas, which Richard Burton portrayed with relish.
The film co-starred Ewa Aulin, Marlon Brando, Walter Matthau, Ringo Starr, James Coburn, John Astin, Charles Aznavour and John Huston.
Ewa Aulin was nominated for a Golden Globe for 'Most Promising Newcomer of 1968'.
Filming for 'Candy' took place at Fort Wadsworth, Staten Island, New York and in Rome.
'Candy' was released in American cinemas on December the 17th, 1968.The film, now hailed as somewhat of a cult-classic, was not received well by the critics on its initial release in 1968, in fact the New York Times wrote;
'This movie, directed by Christian Marquand, manages to compromise, by its relentless, crawling, bloody lack of talent, almost anyone who had anything to do with it. Richard Burton, as a poet-seducer, gives a firm, delighted, irrefutable demonstration of his lack of any comic talent whatsoever.'
The film was directed by Christian Marquand and produced by Robert Haggiag.
The screenplay for 'Candy' was written by Buck Henry and was based on the 1958 novel of the same name, originally written by Terry Southern.
Richard Burton was cast in a minor role as the eccentric poet MacPhisto, an over-the-top parody of Dylan Thomas, which Richard Burton portrayed with relish.
The film co-starred Ewa Aulin, Marlon Brando, Walter Matthau, Ringo Starr, James Coburn, John Astin, Charles Aznavour and John Huston.
Ewa Aulin was nominated for a Golden Globe for 'Most Promising Newcomer of 1968'.
Filming for 'Candy' took place at Fort Wadsworth, Staten Island, New York and in Rome.
'Candy' was released in American cinemas on December the 17th, 1968.The film, now hailed as somewhat of a cult-classic, was not received well by the critics on its initial release in 1968, in fact the New York Times wrote;
'This movie, directed by Christian Marquand, manages to compromise, by its relentless, crawling, bloody lack of talent, almost anyone who had anything to do with it. Richard Burton, as a poet-seducer, gives a firm, delighted, irrefutable demonstration of his lack of any comic talent whatsoever.'
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The rather simplistic opening title screens for the 1968 film, 'Candy.'
'Candy' Deluxe Collectors Edition
Cinerama Releasing Corporation, 1968
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A copy of the official American 'Limited Edition' release of the 1968 comedy film, 'Candy'. This deluxe release was issued in a round metal tin in a limited edition run of just 16,000 copies. Each tin is numbered and this copy is number 3,666.
This limited edition DVD package was released by Anchor Bay Entertainment Incorporated in 2001 and was issued with the serial number DV11636.
The cover notes for this edition read;
"Candy Christian (Ewa Aulin) is an innocent yet lucious high school student when fate sends her on a far-out journey of sexual discovery. On her trippy travels, Candy encounters lust and lunacy at the hands - and other parts - of a drunken poet (Richard Burton), a Mexican gardener (Ringo Starr), a patriotic general (Walter Matthau), a mad surgeon (James Coburn), and a mystic guru (Marlon Brando).
Can the world's most stalwart members get their own sweet piece of Candy? Or will a final freaky twist swallow her whole forever?"
Also included in the limited edition set are six collectors cards featuring the main cast members, Ewa Aulin, Richard Burton, James Coburn, Walter Matthau, Marlon Brando and Ringo Starr.
Richard Burton's card reads on the reverse;
"Brando wasn't a bankable actor at the time," recalled Candy co-star John Astin, "but Burton was. He was the honest guy in the business, more in demand than anybody, and Marlon got an outline to him. When Burton agreed to do this movie, everything fell into place. For Burton, I think it was a lark for which he got paid a lot of money. For guys like me, Coburn and Matthau, it was a chance to be in a picture with Burton and Brando."
"Marlon went out of his way to get that stupid movie going and bring Burton into it," remembered Brando confidante Philip Rhodes, "He was sending Burton presents, which even included shipping him one of the first video cameras ever made when Burton was in Africa."
Richard Burton arrived at the Rome production with wife Elizabeth Taylor. "Richard and Elizabeth turned out to be really good friends," Ringo Starr said. "One fabulous thing he did was to read 'I Am The Walrus' off the album sleeve in that voice of his. It was just amazing. We'd go and stay with them on their boat and I drove Richard crazy because I used to play games with his head. I would say, "God the English language. What a lot of crap." He would explode. I'd say, "Shakespeare? Give us a break!" It was just a little game I'd play with him. And he'd always fall for it and get angry and send me off the boat. "Get off my boat, you little whippersnapper!"
This limited edition DVD package was released by Anchor Bay Entertainment Incorporated in 2001 and was issued with the serial number DV11636.
The cover notes for this edition read;
"Candy Christian (Ewa Aulin) is an innocent yet lucious high school student when fate sends her on a far-out journey of sexual discovery. On her trippy travels, Candy encounters lust and lunacy at the hands - and other parts - of a drunken poet (Richard Burton), a Mexican gardener (Ringo Starr), a patriotic general (Walter Matthau), a mad surgeon (James Coburn), and a mystic guru (Marlon Brando).
Can the world's most stalwart members get their own sweet piece of Candy? Or will a final freaky twist swallow her whole forever?"
Also included in the limited edition set are six collectors cards featuring the main cast members, Ewa Aulin, Richard Burton, James Coburn, Walter Matthau, Marlon Brando and Ringo Starr.
Richard Burton's card reads on the reverse;
"Brando wasn't a bankable actor at the time," recalled Candy co-star John Astin, "but Burton was. He was the honest guy in the business, more in demand than anybody, and Marlon got an outline to him. When Burton agreed to do this movie, everything fell into place. For Burton, I think it was a lark for which he got paid a lot of money. For guys like me, Coburn and Matthau, it was a chance to be in a picture with Burton and Brando."
"Marlon went out of his way to get that stupid movie going and bring Burton into it," remembered Brando confidante Philip Rhodes, "He was sending Burton presents, which even included shipping him one of the first video cameras ever made when Burton was in Africa."
Richard Burton arrived at the Rome production with wife Elizabeth Taylor. "Richard and Elizabeth turned out to be really good friends," Ringo Starr said. "One fabulous thing he did was to read 'I Am The Walrus' off the album sleeve in that voice of his. It was just amazing. We'd go and stay with them on their boat and I drove Richard crazy because I used to play games with his head. I would say, "God the English language. What a lot of crap." He would explode. I'd say, "Shakespeare? Give us a break!" It was just a little game I'd play with him. And he'd always fall for it and get angry and send me off the boat. "Get off my boat, you little whippersnapper!"
The six cast-member collectors cards which are included in the 'Limited Edition' 2001 box-set of 'Candy'.
'Staircase' Twentieth Century Fox Studios, 1969
An unofficial copy of an American DVDR of the 1969 Twentieth Century Fox production of the controversial film adaption of 'Staircase'.
This cult-classic film co-starred Rex Harrison and Cathleen Nesbitt.
The film was directed by Stanley Donen and was based on the play by Charles Dyer, who also wrote the screenplay for this film adaption.
Richard Burton and Rex Harrison play an aging gay couple, who work together as hairdressers in the West End of London, coming to terms with their volatile past together, and the possibility of a future without each other due to an up-coming court case.
The two main characters are names Charles Dyer, the real-life writer of the play , and Harry C. Leeds, which is an anagram of his name.
Rarely seen on television, this film has adopted somewhat of a 'cult-status'. At the time of the film's initial release it was slated by the critics. The film critic Roger Ebert wrote..."Staircase is an unpleasant exercise in bad taste, Stanley Donen gives us no warmth, humour or even the dregs of understanding. He exploits the improbable team of Rex Harrison and Richard Burton as a sideshow attraction". However, on the other side of the scale the esteemed film critic Armond White stated that 'Staircase' was...."A rare Hollywood movie to depict gay experience with wisdom, humour and warmth. A lost treasure."
The American entertainment magazine, 'Variety' in their August 1969 edition, wrote;
'Harrison, as the flighty dagger-tongued roommate of fellow 'hair-stylist' Richard Burton, offers a portrait of a bitter, disenchanted man living in terror of being alone. Burton, almost stoic in his less theatrical role, commands respect and, at the same time, sympathy. Harrison and Burton have dared risky roles and have triumphed'.
The musical score for 'Staircase' was composed by comedian, musician and actor, Dudley Moore.
The continual 'rising staircase' animation of the title credits for the film, which featured both actor's names rising in succession, was intended so that neither Rex Harrison or Richard Burton names were credited above the other.
The exterior filming for Staircase' took place at various locations around London and Paris whilst the interior filming took place entirely at the Studios de Billancourt, Boulogne-Billancourt, Hauts de Seine, France due to tax reasons.
The Royal Charity Premiere of 'Staircase' took place at The Carlton Cinema, Haymarket, London, in the presence of Her Royal Highness Princess Margaret, on the 22nd of October, 1969.
This cult-classic film co-starred Rex Harrison and Cathleen Nesbitt.
The film was directed by Stanley Donen and was based on the play by Charles Dyer, who also wrote the screenplay for this film adaption.
Richard Burton and Rex Harrison play an aging gay couple, who work together as hairdressers in the West End of London, coming to terms with their volatile past together, and the possibility of a future without each other due to an up-coming court case.
The two main characters are names Charles Dyer, the real-life writer of the play , and Harry C. Leeds, which is an anagram of his name.
Rarely seen on television, this film has adopted somewhat of a 'cult-status'. At the time of the film's initial release it was slated by the critics. The film critic Roger Ebert wrote..."Staircase is an unpleasant exercise in bad taste, Stanley Donen gives us no warmth, humour or even the dregs of understanding. He exploits the improbable team of Rex Harrison and Richard Burton as a sideshow attraction". However, on the other side of the scale the esteemed film critic Armond White stated that 'Staircase' was...."A rare Hollywood movie to depict gay experience with wisdom, humour and warmth. A lost treasure."
The American entertainment magazine, 'Variety' in their August 1969 edition, wrote;
'Harrison, as the flighty dagger-tongued roommate of fellow 'hair-stylist' Richard Burton, offers a portrait of a bitter, disenchanted man living in terror of being alone. Burton, almost stoic in his less theatrical role, commands respect and, at the same time, sympathy. Harrison and Burton have dared risky roles and have triumphed'.
The musical score for 'Staircase' was composed by comedian, musician and actor, Dudley Moore.
The continual 'rising staircase' animation of the title credits for the film, which featured both actor's names rising in succession, was intended so that neither Rex Harrison or Richard Burton names were credited above the other.
The exterior filming for Staircase' took place at various locations around London and Paris whilst the interior filming took place entirely at the Studios de Billancourt, Boulogne-Billancourt, Hauts de Seine, France due to tax reasons.
The Royal Charity Premiere of 'Staircase' took place at The Carlton Cinema, Haymarket, London, in the presence of Her Royal Highness Princess Margaret, on the 22nd of October, 1969.
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The opening title screens for the Twentieth Century Fox production of 'Staircase'.
'Anne Of The Thousand Days' Universal Pictures, 1970
A copy of the official U.K. DVD release of the Academy Award winning film 'Anne Of The Thousand Days.'
This historical drama co-starred Genevieve Bujold, Anthony Quayle, John Colicos and Irene Papas.
The film was directed by Charles Jarrott and was produced by Hal B. Wallis.
The screenplay for the film was written by Bridget Boland, John Hale and Richard Sokolove and was based on the book of the same name written by Maxwell Anderson.
'Anne Of The Thousand Days' was nominated for ten Academy Awards including the sixth 'Best Actor' nomination for Richard Burton, it did however win the Academy Award for 'Best Costume Design'.
Interior filming for 'Anne Of The Thousand Days' took place at Pinewood Studios, Buckinghamshire, whilst the beautiful and historic exterior locations included Anne Boleyn's childhood home of Hever Castle, the Plantagenent Manor House of Puttenden, Surrey, Richmond Park and various locations in Greenwich including the Old Royal Naval College, the former palace of Henry VIII.
Elizabeth Taylor had a brief, uncredited cameo in the film, playing a masked courtesan who interrupts Queen Katherine's prayers, Kate Burton also made her screen debut in the film.
'Anne Of The Thousand Days' was chosen for the 1970 Royal Film Performance and went on general release in the U.K. on February the 23rd, 1969.
The American entertainment magazine was to write in their August 1969 edition;
'With Richard Burton as Henry VIII and Genevieve Bujold in the title role of Anne Boleyn, 'Anne of the Thousand Days' is a stunning-acted, sumptuous, grand scale wide-screen drama of a royal bedchamber and political intrigues that created the Church of England and caused the beheading of 'A Man For All Seasons'...Although Burton's portrayal is sensitive, vivid and arresting, and treats the Tudor debaucher with considerably more sympathy than popular history has, it is still basically an unsympathetic role'.
This edition was released on DVD by Universal in 2005 and issued with the catalogue number Universal 824 137 9.
The cover notes to this 2005 DVD release read;
'Richard Burton and Genevieve Bujold star as King Henry VIII of England and Anne Boleyn in this emotionally charged drama about one of history's most famous tragic love affairs. Nominated for nine Academy Awards, this magnificent Hal Wallis production features stunning Technicolour photography and outstanding Oscar-winning period costumes.
Co-starring Irene Papas and Anthony Quayle, 'Anne of the Thousand Days', set against the pageantry and political intrigue of 16th century England traces the ill-fated marriage between Anne and her King, from its spirited beginning to its tragic finale.'
This historical drama co-starred Genevieve Bujold, Anthony Quayle, John Colicos and Irene Papas.
The film was directed by Charles Jarrott and was produced by Hal B. Wallis.
The screenplay for the film was written by Bridget Boland, John Hale and Richard Sokolove and was based on the book of the same name written by Maxwell Anderson.
'Anne Of The Thousand Days' was nominated for ten Academy Awards including the sixth 'Best Actor' nomination for Richard Burton, it did however win the Academy Award for 'Best Costume Design'.
Interior filming for 'Anne Of The Thousand Days' took place at Pinewood Studios, Buckinghamshire, whilst the beautiful and historic exterior locations included Anne Boleyn's childhood home of Hever Castle, the Plantagenent Manor House of Puttenden, Surrey, Richmond Park and various locations in Greenwich including the Old Royal Naval College, the former palace of Henry VIII.
Elizabeth Taylor had a brief, uncredited cameo in the film, playing a masked courtesan who interrupts Queen Katherine's prayers, Kate Burton also made her screen debut in the film.
'Anne Of The Thousand Days' was chosen for the 1970 Royal Film Performance and went on general release in the U.K. on February the 23rd, 1969.
The American entertainment magazine was to write in their August 1969 edition;
'With Richard Burton as Henry VIII and Genevieve Bujold in the title role of Anne Boleyn, 'Anne of the Thousand Days' is a stunning-acted, sumptuous, grand scale wide-screen drama of a royal bedchamber and political intrigues that created the Church of England and caused the beheading of 'A Man For All Seasons'...Although Burton's portrayal is sensitive, vivid and arresting, and treats the Tudor debaucher with considerably more sympathy than popular history has, it is still basically an unsympathetic role'.
This edition was released on DVD by Universal in 2005 and issued with the catalogue number Universal 824 137 9.
The cover notes to this 2005 DVD release read;
'Richard Burton and Genevieve Bujold star as King Henry VIII of England and Anne Boleyn in this emotionally charged drama about one of history's most famous tragic love affairs. Nominated for nine Academy Awards, this magnificent Hal Wallis production features stunning Technicolour photography and outstanding Oscar-winning period costumes.
Co-starring Irene Papas and Anthony Quayle, 'Anne of the Thousand Days', set against the pageantry and political intrigue of 16th century England traces the ill-fated marriage between Anne and her King, from its spirited beginning to its tragic finale.'
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The striking opening title screens for the Universal Pictures production of the historical drama, 'Anne of the Thousand Days'.
'Raid On Rommel' Universal Pictures,1971
A copy of the official U.K. DVD release of the 1971 World War II drama, ' Raid On Rommel'.
This wartime drama co-starred John Colicos, Clinton Greyn and Wolfgang Preiss.
The film was originally intended as a 'Made-for-Television' film, with Richard Burton cast as British army captain Alex Foster, who after allowing his company to be captured by a German convoy, plans to infiltrate the Libyan port of Tobruk.
In this hastily filmed production, most of the action footage was left over film from the 1967 film 'Tobruk', and the storyline was basically the same.
Filming for 'Raid On Rommel' took place in the Mojave Desert, Arizona and in San Felipe, Mexico.
The film was directed by Henry Hathaway and produced by Harry Tatelman with a screenplay written by Richard M. Bluel.
'Raid On Rommel' was released in cinemas on February the 12th, 1971.
This edition was released on DVD by Universal Pictures in 1999 with the catalogue number 820 30. The cover notes for this edition read;
'Richard Burton is a British intelligence officer who leads a daring attack on the German shore defences at Tobruk in this explosive WWII drama. Infiltrating a German P.O.W. convoy, Captain Foster (Burton) learns that the commandos he hoped to link up with have been almost completely wiped out, and the prisoners belong to a British medical unit. Aided by Mackenzie, (John Colicos), one of the surviving commandos, he vows to carry on his mission, which is further complicated by the presence of an Italian general's mistress (Danille de Metz). Together, Foster and Mac whip the ragtag band of P.O.W.'s into a fighting force that impersonates and overthrows it's captors - only to stumble into an unexpected meeting with Rommel (Wolfgang Preiss) !'
This wartime drama co-starred John Colicos, Clinton Greyn and Wolfgang Preiss.
The film was originally intended as a 'Made-for-Television' film, with Richard Burton cast as British army captain Alex Foster, who after allowing his company to be captured by a German convoy, plans to infiltrate the Libyan port of Tobruk.
In this hastily filmed production, most of the action footage was left over film from the 1967 film 'Tobruk', and the storyline was basically the same.
Filming for 'Raid On Rommel' took place in the Mojave Desert, Arizona and in San Felipe, Mexico.
The film was directed by Henry Hathaway and produced by Harry Tatelman with a screenplay written by Richard M. Bluel.
'Raid On Rommel' was released in cinemas on February the 12th, 1971.
This edition was released on DVD by Universal Pictures in 1999 with the catalogue number 820 30. The cover notes for this edition read;
'Richard Burton is a British intelligence officer who leads a daring attack on the German shore defences at Tobruk in this explosive WWII drama. Infiltrating a German P.O.W. convoy, Captain Foster (Burton) learns that the commandos he hoped to link up with have been almost completely wiped out, and the prisoners belong to a British medical unit. Aided by Mackenzie, (John Colicos), one of the surviving commandos, he vows to carry on his mission, which is further complicated by the presence of an Italian general's mistress (Danille de Metz). Together, Foster and Mac whip the ragtag band of P.O.W.'s into a fighting force that impersonates and overthrows it's captors - only to stumble into an unexpected meeting with Rommel (Wolfgang Preiss) !'
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Another rather simple opening title screen sequence for the 1971 'low-budget' Universal Pictures production of the film, 'Raid On Rommel'.
'Under Milk Wood' The Rank Organisation / Timon Films 1972
A copy of the 'Special Anniversary Edition' of Dylan Thomas' s 'Under Milk Wood'.
This edition was released in the U.K. by Majestic Films (Universal Pictures Limited) in 2003 and issued with the catalogue number DVD 8211022-11.
This 1972 film version of 'Under Milk Wood' was directed by Andrew Sinclair and produced by Timon Films and co-starred Elizabeth Taylor, Peter O'Toole, Ryan Davies, Vivien Merchant, David Jason, Angharad Rees, Glynis Johns, Victor Spinetti, Sian Phillips, Rachel Thomas and many other famous Welsh actors and actresses of the day.
The original film version was distributed by Rank Films.
'Under Milk Wood' was entirely filmed on location in Lower Town, Fishguard, Pembrokeshire, West Wales with stunning cinematography provided by Robert Huke.
The haunting musical score was composed by Brian Gascoigne.
The entire budget for the film was underwritten by Richard Burton as he was so eager to have the work of Dylan Thomas made available to a worldwide audience.
The film version of 'Under Milk Wood' was released in cinemas in the U.K. on January the 27th, 1972.
In 2012 the director, Andrew Sinclair very kindly gave the rights to the film to the people of Wales.
The bonus material on this special edition include the directors introduction, a special documentary written by Andrew Sinclair, entitled, 'Dylan On Dylan', a directors commentary, a Richard Burton interview, an Andrew Sinclair interview and the original theatrical trailer.
The cover notes for this 'Special Anniversary Edition' DVD read;
'Legendary Hollywood icons Richard Burton, Elizabeth Taylor and Peter O'Toole star in the screen adaption of Dylan Thomas' classic play.
A celebration of life and death, the film follows the people and events in a small Welsh harbour village, on one spring day.
Captain Cat (O'Toole), the blind sea captain, awake or asleep, yearns for Rosie Probert (Taylor), the greatest passion of his youth. Richard Burton plays the key role of the first voice, an all-seeing compassionate narrator.'
Also included in this edition is a special 'Limited Edition card cover and booklet.
The 'Limited Edition' protective card cover was kindly donated to the Richard Burton Museum Collection by my wonderful son, Alex.
This edition was released in the U.K. by Majestic Films (Universal Pictures Limited) in 2003 and issued with the catalogue number DVD 8211022-11.
This 1972 film version of 'Under Milk Wood' was directed by Andrew Sinclair and produced by Timon Films and co-starred Elizabeth Taylor, Peter O'Toole, Ryan Davies, Vivien Merchant, David Jason, Angharad Rees, Glynis Johns, Victor Spinetti, Sian Phillips, Rachel Thomas and many other famous Welsh actors and actresses of the day.
The original film version was distributed by Rank Films.
'Under Milk Wood' was entirely filmed on location in Lower Town, Fishguard, Pembrokeshire, West Wales with stunning cinematography provided by Robert Huke.
The haunting musical score was composed by Brian Gascoigne.
The entire budget for the film was underwritten by Richard Burton as he was so eager to have the work of Dylan Thomas made available to a worldwide audience.
The film version of 'Under Milk Wood' was released in cinemas in the U.K. on January the 27th, 1972.
In 2012 the director, Andrew Sinclair very kindly gave the rights to the film to the people of Wales.
The bonus material on this special edition include the directors introduction, a special documentary written by Andrew Sinclair, entitled, 'Dylan On Dylan', a directors commentary, a Richard Burton interview, an Andrew Sinclair interview and the original theatrical trailer.
The cover notes for this 'Special Anniversary Edition' DVD read;
'Legendary Hollywood icons Richard Burton, Elizabeth Taylor and Peter O'Toole star in the screen adaption of Dylan Thomas' classic play.
A celebration of life and death, the film follows the people and events in a small Welsh harbour village, on one spring day.
Captain Cat (O'Toole), the blind sea captain, awake or asleep, yearns for Rosie Probert (Taylor), the greatest passion of his youth. Richard Burton plays the key role of the first voice, an all-seeing compassionate narrator.'
Also included in this edition is a special 'Limited Edition card cover and booklet.
The 'Limited Edition' protective card cover was kindly donated to the Richard Burton Museum Collection by my wonderful son, Alex.
The cover, booklet and inner cover of the 2003 'Special Edition' release of Andrew Sinclair's 'Under Milk Wood'.
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Many more items relating to the 1972 Rank / Timon Films release of 'Under Milk Wood', including the original U.K. film poster, can be found on the 'Richard Burton Film Memorabilia', 'Books and Magazines', 'The Recorded Burton Voice' and 'The Dylan Thomas Collection' pages of this website.
'Villain' Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios,1971
A copy of the official U.K. DVD release of the 1971 cult crime thriller, 'Villain'.
Richard Burton was cast as ruthless East End gangster Vic Dakin, and was supported by a fine supporting cast of actors which included Ian McShane, Nigel Davenport, T. P. McKenna, Joss Ackland and Colin Welland.
'Villain' was directed by Michael Tuchner.
The screenplay for the film was written by Dick Clement and Ian La Frenais and adapted from the James Barlow novel which was originally titled 'The Burden Of Proof'.
'Villain' was released in British cinemas on May the 26th, 1971.
Filming for 'Villain' took place in various locations around London including Battersea, Notting Hill, Kilburn, Hounslow, Wandsworth and Chiswick. Aside from a brief scene filmed in Brighton the only other scene filmed outside of London was the spectacular wages snatch which was filmed on the Southern Industrial Estate in Bracknell, Berkshire.
This edition was released on DVD by Studio Canal and Optimum Releasing in 2007 and issued with the catalogue number OPTD 1057.
The cover notes for this 2007 edition read;
'Sadistic London gang leader Vic Dakin's (Richard Burton) character is based on the original real life gangster Ronnie Kray. Vic becomes worried about a potential police informer that could bring him down in his criminal empire. His downfall comes however in him moving from his protection racket into armed robbery, where he plans a payroll robbery and directs the blackmailing of Members of Parliament with a taste for unorthodox sex. Scotland Yard police inspector Matthews is moving in on the gang and approaches the hospitalised gang member Frank for a confession. Will Frank confess all before Vic can silence him?
Written by Dick Clement and Ian La Frenais, 'Villain' uses a very authentic dialogue as well as a plot that is an anecdote which pays off with a speech by Burton which is not dissimilar to that of Al Pacino's great restaurant rant in 'Scarface'.
'Villain' has all the conventions of the traditional British gangster movie.'
Richard Burton was cast as ruthless East End gangster Vic Dakin, and was supported by a fine supporting cast of actors which included Ian McShane, Nigel Davenport, T. P. McKenna, Joss Ackland and Colin Welland.
'Villain' was directed by Michael Tuchner.
The screenplay for the film was written by Dick Clement and Ian La Frenais and adapted from the James Barlow novel which was originally titled 'The Burden Of Proof'.
'Villain' was released in British cinemas on May the 26th, 1971.
Filming for 'Villain' took place in various locations around London including Battersea, Notting Hill, Kilburn, Hounslow, Wandsworth and Chiswick. Aside from a brief scene filmed in Brighton the only other scene filmed outside of London was the spectacular wages snatch which was filmed on the Southern Industrial Estate in Bracknell, Berkshire.
This edition was released on DVD by Studio Canal and Optimum Releasing in 2007 and issued with the catalogue number OPTD 1057.
The cover notes for this 2007 edition read;
'Sadistic London gang leader Vic Dakin's (Richard Burton) character is based on the original real life gangster Ronnie Kray. Vic becomes worried about a potential police informer that could bring him down in his criminal empire. His downfall comes however in him moving from his protection racket into armed robbery, where he plans a payroll robbery and directs the blackmailing of Members of Parliament with a taste for unorthodox sex. Scotland Yard police inspector Matthews is moving in on the gang and approaches the hospitalised gang member Frank for a confession. Will Frank confess all before Vic can silence him?
Written by Dick Clement and Ian La Frenais, 'Villain' uses a very authentic dialogue as well as a plot that is an anecdote which pays off with a speech by Burton which is not dissimilar to that of Al Pacino's great restaurant rant in 'Scarface'.
'Villain' has all the conventions of the traditional British gangster movie.'
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The opening titles for the 1971 Gangster film 'Villain', which co-starred Ian McShane, Nigel Davenport and Joss Ackland.
'The Assassination Of Trotsky' Dino de Laurentis Cinematografica,1972
A copy of an official Swedish DVD release of the 1972 factual drama, 'The Assassination of Trotsky'.
With Richard Burton cast in the title role of Leon Trotsky, the film co-starred Alain Delon, Romy Schnieder and Valentina Cortese and was directed by Joseph Losey with a screenplay written by Nicholas Mosley, the eldest son of Sir Oswald Mosley, founder of the British Union Of Fascists.
'The Assassination Of Trotsky was produced by Dino de Laurentis Cinematografica and was filmed entirely on location in Italy and Mexico.
The film was released to U.K. cinema audiences on the 20th of April, 1972.
This edition was released on DVD in Sweden and Norway by Scantrade Entertainment in 2007 and was issued with the catalogue number 1107.
With Richard Burton cast in the title role of Leon Trotsky, the film co-starred Alain Delon, Romy Schnieder and Valentina Cortese and was directed by Joseph Losey with a screenplay written by Nicholas Mosley, the eldest son of Sir Oswald Mosley, founder of the British Union Of Fascists.
'The Assassination Of Trotsky was produced by Dino de Laurentis Cinematografica and was filmed entirely on location in Italy and Mexico.
The film was released to U.K. cinema audiences on the 20th of April, 1972.
This edition was released on DVD in Sweden and Norway by Scantrade Entertainment in 2007 and was issued with the catalogue number 1107.
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The opening title screens from the harrowing 1972 factual drama, 'The Assassination of Trotsky'.
'Bluebeard' Gloria Film / Barnabe Productions,1972
A copy of an official American DVD release of the Gothic horror thriller, 'Bluebeard'.
The film co-starred Raquel Welch, Joey Heatherton, Nathalie Delon, Karin Schubert, Sybil Danning and Virna Lisi.
'Bluebeard' was directed by Edward Dmytryk and was adapted from a screenplay written by Dmytryk along with Ennio De Concini which was based loosely on the classic novel written by Charles Perrault.
The haunting musical score was written by Ennio Morricone.
The entire filming of 'Bluebeard' took place in Budapest and Lazio, Italy between the 10th of February and late March of 1972.
'Bluebeard' was released in U.K. cinemas on the 1st of September, 1972.
This American edition was released on DVD by Lionsgate and Studio Canal in 2007.
The cover notes for this American edition read;
'Part camp, part horror and totally wild, this one-of-a-kind sexy thriller stars Richard Burton as a wife-murdering aristocrat, Joey Heatherton as his seventh bride Anne, and six dazzling international starlets including Raquel Welch, Nathalie Delon and Virna Lisi as his previous wives.
after Anne accidentally discovers frozen bodies in their castle's freezer, she confronts her husband, who is compelled to confess how he killed all his previous wives. When he explains that he must now kill her too Anne is convinced she can outsmart him by talking her way out of it.'
The film co-starred Raquel Welch, Joey Heatherton, Nathalie Delon, Karin Schubert, Sybil Danning and Virna Lisi.
'Bluebeard' was directed by Edward Dmytryk and was adapted from a screenplay written by Dmytryk along with Ennio De Concini which was based loosely on the classic novel written by Charles Perrault.
The haunting musical score was written by Ennio Morricone.
The entire filming of 'Bluebeard' took place in Budapest and Lazio, Italy between the 10th of February and late March of 1972.
'Bluebeard' was released in U.K. cinemas on the 1st of September, 1972.
This American edition was released on DVD by Lionsgate and Studio Canal in 2007.
The cover notes for this American edition read;
'Part camp, part horror and totally wild, this one-of-a-kind sexy thriller stars Richard Burton as a wife-murdering aristocrat, Joey Heatherton as his seventh bride Anne, and six dazzling international starlets including Raquel Welch, Nathalie Delon and Virna Lisi as his previous wives.
after Anne accidentally discovers frozen bodies in their castle's freezer, she confronts her husband, who is compelled to confess how he killed all his previous wives. When he explains that he must now kill her too Anne is convinced she can outsmart him by talking her way out of it.'
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The opening titles from the 1972 film adaption of Edward Dmytryk's ''Bluebeard'.
'Hammersmith Is Out' J. Cornelius Crean Films Inc, 1972
An unofficial American DVDR copy of the 1972 dark comedy 'Hammersmith is Out.'
The film co-starred Elizabeth Taylor, Peter Ustinov, Beau Bridges and George Raft.
'Hammersmith Is Out' was directed by Peter Ustinov and produced by Alex Lucas and distributed by Cinerama.
The screenplay was written by Stanford Whitmore, the story itself being loosely based on the legend of Faust.
Richard Burton was cast in the role of 'Hammersmith', an escaped inmate from a mental asylum. For her performance in the film, Elizabeth Taylor won a Silver Bear for 'Best Actress' at the Berlin International Film Festival.
Although set in The United States, 'Hammersmith Is Out' was filmed entirely in Mexico, and was released in cinemas across the United States on May the 12th, 1972.
The film co-starred Elizabeth Taylor, Peter Ustinov, Beau Bridges and George Raft.
'Hammersmith Is Out' was directed by Peter Ustinov and produced by Alex Lucas and distributed by Cinerama.
The screenplay was written by Stanford Whitmore, the story itself being loosely based on the legend of Faust.
Richard Burton was cast in the role of 'Hammersmith', an escaped inmate from a mental asylum. For her performance in the film, Elizabeth Taylor won a Silver Bear for 'Best Actress' at the Berlin International Film Festival.
Although set in The United States, 'Hammersmith Is Out' was filmed entirely in Mexico, and was released in cinemas across the United States on May the 12th, 1972.
'Divorce His; Divorce Hers' World Film Services, 1973
A copy of the official U.K. DVD release of the 1973 two-part, American television drama entitled, 'Divorce His, Divorce Hers'.
This television drama co-starred Elizabeth Taylor, Carrie Nye, Rudolph Walker, Eva Griffith and Barry Foster.
This moving drama was tag-lined with the words, 'There are two sides to every story...'
This well-written television film sees Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor perfectly cast as Martin and Jane Reynolds, and reveals in two parts, first from the husband's perspective, then the wife's, the complexities of a failing eighteen-year old marriage.
This was to be the first and only television film in which Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor would appear together and would prove to be their last screen appearance together.
Television critic, Clive James was to write of this drama;
"After movies as monumentally lousy as 'Bluebeard' and 'Hammersmith Is Out' it was good to see Burton chipping some of the rust off his technique''.
'Divorce His, Divorce Hers' was the first film to be directed by Warris Hussain and adapted from a screenplay written by John Hopkins, previously best known for his work on the classic 1965 James Bond film, 'Thunderball'.
The musical soundtrack was written by composer Stanley Myers, who as well as composing the soundtrack to the later Richard Burton film 'Absolution' had composed over sixty other film scores, and was also the composer of the famous guitar composition, 'Cavatina'.
The interior filming for this drama took place at the Bavaria Studios, Munich and the location filming took place in Acapulco and Rome. The film was originally to be set and filmed in and around the city of Bristol, but due to the harsh tax laws in the U.K. at that time it was decided that it would be financially beneficial for the Burton's that the film was made out of the country.
The two parts of 'Divorce His, Divorce Hers' were first shown on American television on the 6th and 7th of February, 1973 as part of the' ABC Movie of the Week' season.
This official DVD edition was released by River Records and was issued with the catalogue number PPDVD 1009. The cover notes for this official DVD release read;
'Jane (Elizabeth Taylor) and Martin Reynolds (Richard Burton) live La Dolce Vita in Rome in the early '70's and after eighteen years come to the slow and painful end of their marriage.
This is the story of a crumbling relationship told first from the husband's point of view and then in the second half told from the wife's. A couple with very different needs, Burton plays a businessman who is uncommunicative and aloof, and Taylor is his wife who will do anything to get his attention, eventually the relationship borders on sadomasochisms as he tires of her manipulative games and she is increasingly frustrated with this dearth of attention and her mundane 'normal' family life, as she tells him at one point, "It's no fun behaving badly if you're not going to punish me".
The beauty of Taylor is breath-taking and Burton, with his powerful voice, is immensely attractive. Both give terrific performances in this Love / Hate scenario and it is fascinating to watch these fabulous on and off screen lovers battle each other, both experts in the chaos of divorce themselves in their own real life relationship.'
This television drama co-starred Elizabeth Taylor, Carrie Nye, Rudolph Walker, Eva Griffith and Barry Foster.
This moving drama was tag-lined with the words, 'There are two sides to every story...'
This well-written television film sees Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor perfectly cast as Martin and Jane Reynolds, and reveals in two parts, first from the husband's perspective, then the wife's, the complexities of a failing eighteen-year old marriage.
This was to be the first and only television film in which Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor would appear together and would prove to be their last screen appearance together.
Television critic, Clive James was to write of this drama;
"After movies as monumentally lousy as 'Bluebeard' and 'Hammersmith Is Out' it was good to see Burton chipping some of the rust off his technique''.
'Divorce His, Divorce Hers' was the first film to be directed by Warris Hussain and adapted from a screenplay written by John Hopkins, previously best known for his work on the classic 1965 James Bond film, 'Thunderball'.
The musical soundtrack was written by composer Stanley Myers, who as well as composing the soundtrack to the later Richard Burton film 'Absolution' had composed over sixty other film scores, and was also the composer of the famous guitar composition, 'Cavatina'.
The interior filming for this drama took place at the Bavaria Studios, Munich and the location filming took place in Acapulco and Rome. The film was originally to be set and filmed in and around the city of Bristol, but due to the harsh tax laws in the U.K. at that time it was decided that it would be financially beneficial for the Burton's that the film was made out of the country.
The two parts of 'Divorce His, Divorce Hers' were first shown on American television on the 6th and 7th of February, 1973 as part of the' ABC Movie of the Week' season.
This official DVD edition was released by River Records and was issued with the catalogue number PPDVD 1009. The cover notes for this official DVD release read;
'Jane (Elizabeth Taylor) and Martin Reynolds (Richard Burton) live La Dolce Vita in Rome in the early '70's and after eighteen years come to the slow and painful end of their marriage.
This is the story of a crumbling relationship told first from the husband's point of view and then in the second half told from the wife's. A couple with very different needs, Burton plays a businessman who is uncommunicative and aloof, and Taylor is his wife who will do anything to get his attention, eventually the relationship borders on sadomasochisms as he tires of her manipulative games and she is increasingly frustrated with this dearth of attention and her mundane 'normal' family life, as she tells him at one point, "It's no fun behaving badly if you're not going to punish me".
The beauty of Taylor is breath-taking and Burton, with his powerful voice, is immensely attractive. Both give terrific performances in this Love / Hate scenario and it is fascinating to watch these fabulous on and off screen lovers battle each other, both experts in the chaos of divorce themselves in their own real life relationship.'
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The opening title screens for the first pat of the made-for-television drama, 'Divorce His; Divorce Hers'.
'Divorce His; Divorce Hers' World Film Services, 1973
(Version Two)
A differently packaged official DVD release of the two-part television drama, 'Divorce His, Divorce Hers', released by Dynamic Entertainment Limited in 2003 and issued with the catalogue number DYNDVD 1002.
The cover notes for this edition read;
"The legendary film couple Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor, whose sensational private lives and two marriages were almost as explosive as many of the films in which they starred, deliver memorable and stunning performances in 'Divorce His; Divorce Hers', a 1973 made-for-television movie which actually reflected the torment of their own real-life volatile relationship.
'Divorce His; Divorce Hers' , about a couple in the throes of breaking up after more than twenty years of marriage, examines the powerful feelings and passions that are aroused when such a break up occurs. This electrifying two-part film tells the story from each partner's own perspective, and Taylor and Burton's emotional performances probably rate among the best of their long careers.
'Divorce His; Divorce Hers' could have been based on Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton's own real-life tumultuous marriage which, when this was filmed in the early Seventies, was also heading for the rocks. Barry Foster, Eva Griffith and Ronald Radd also appear in this terrific film tour-de-force, which accurately mirrors all the emotions, guilt, anger and passion engendered when a marriage disintegrates."
The cover notes for this edition read;
"The legendary film couple Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor, whose sensational private lives and two marriages were almost as explosive as many of the films in which they starred, deliver memorable and stunning performances in 'Divorce His; Divorce Hers', a 1973 made-for-television movie which actually reflected the torment of their own real-life volatile relationship.
'Divorce His; Divorce Hers' , about a couple in the throes of breaking up after more than twenty years of marriage, examines the powerful feelings and passions that are aroused when such a break up occurs. This electrifying two-part film tells the story from each partner's own perspective, and Taylor and Burton's emotional performances probably rate among the best of their long careers.
'Divorce His; Divorce Hers' could have been based on Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton's own real-life tumultuous marriage which, when this was filmed in the early Seventies, was also heading for the rocks. Barry Foster, Eva Griffith and Ronald Radd also appear in this terrific film tour-de-force, which accurately mirrors all the emotions, guilt, anger and passion engendered when a marriage disintegrates."
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The opening title screens for the second part of the made-for-television drama, 'Divorce His; Divorce Hers'.
'Massacre In Rome' National General Pictures, 1973
A copy of the official U.K. DVD release of the factual wartime drama, 'Massacre In Rome'.
This definitive restored widescreen edition was released by Argent Films Limited in 2010 and was issued with the catalogue number VFD40176, and contains an extra four minutes of footage previously unseen in the original cinema release.
The film was also known as 'Rappresaglia' and 'Death In Rome' and was promoted with the tag-line, 'Hitler Ordered it. The Vatican wouldn't stop it. The world would never forgive it.' This dark, factual World War II drama co-starred Marcello Mastroianni and Leo McKern and was directed by George Pan Cosmatos and produced by Carlo Ponti.
The musical score for the film was composed by Ennio Morricone.
Filming for 'Massacre In Rome' took place in Lazio and Rome.
The cover notes to this 2010 release read;
'Massacre In Rome' depicts one of the worst atrocities of the War which took place in Nazi occupied Rome sparking a searing political outrage; Did the Vatican, then led by Pope Pius XII (referred to by some as 'Hitler's Pope) kowtow to Nazism? After Italian Partisans killed thirty-three soldiers by exploding a roadside bomb, Hitler ordered the immediate execution of ten Roman citizens for each dead soldier. When the Vatican withdrew from the matter, a deadly confrontation ensued between a priest and a Nazi Officer Kappler who had been ordered to administer what would become one of the most heinous war crimes; the massacre of three hundred and thirty-five civilians.
Director Cosmatos and writer Robert Katz crank up the tension in this nerve-wracking dramatization of Katz's own, highly contentious, 1967 best-seller, 'Death In Rome', in which he blamed Pope Pius XII for the massacre, and for which the author was sued by the Pope's heirs and sentenced to jail. The controversy continues to date as the present Pope, Benedict XVI, has just declared Pius XII 'venerable' - the first step towards Sainthood.'
'Massacre In Rome' was first shown in cinemas on October the 4th, 1973.
The film was based on the book 'Death In Rome' by Robert Katz, which tells the story of the Ardentine Massacre which took place on the 24th of March, 1944, when, as a reprisal for an Italian partisan attack, the Germans rounded up and executed three hundred Italians. Richard Burton portrays the factual Gestapo chief, Herbert Kappler.
This definitive restored widescreen edition was released by Argent Films Limited in 2010 and was issued with the catalogue number VFD40176, and contains an extra four minutes of footage previously unseen in the original cinema release.
The film was also known as 'Rappresaglia' and 'Death In Rome' and was promoted with the tag-line, 'Hitler Ordered it. The Vatican wouldn't stop it. The world would never forgive it.' This dark, factual World War II drama co-starred Marcello Mastroianni and Leo McKern and was directed by George Pan Cosmatos and produced by Carlo Ponti.
The musical score for the film was composed by Ennio Morricone.
Filming for 'Massacre In Rome' took place in Lazio and Rome.
The cover notes to this 2010 release read;
'Massacre In Rome' depicts one of the worst atrocities of the War which took place in Nazi occupied Rome sparking a searing political outrage; Did the Vatican, then led by Pope Pius XII (referred to by some as 'Hitler's Pope) kowtow to Nazism? After Italian Partisans killed thirty-three soldiers by exploding a roadside bomb, Hitler ordered the immediate execution of ten Roman citizens for each dead soldier. When the Vatican withdrew from the matter, a deadly confrontation ensued between a priest and a Nazi Officer Kappler who had been ordered to administer what would become one of the most heinous war crimes; the massacre of three hundred and thirty-five civilians.
Director Cosmatos and writer Robert Katz crank up the tension in this nerve-wracking dramatization of Katz's own, highly contentious, 1967 best-seller, 'Death In Rome', in which he blamed Pope Pius XII for the massacre, and for which the author was sued by the Pope's heirs and sentenced to jail. The controversy continues to date as the present Pope, Benedict XVI, has just declared Pius XII 'venerable' - the first step towards Sainthood.'
'Massacre In Rome' was first shown in cinemas on October the 4th, 1973.
The film was based on the book 'Death In Rome' by Robert Katz, which tells the story of the Ardentine Massacre which took place on the 24th of March, 1944, when, as a reprisal for an Italian partisan attack, the Germans rounded up and executed three hundred Italians. Richard Burton portrays the factual Gestapo chief, Herbert Kappler.
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The opening title screens to the powerful World War II factual drama, 'Massacre In Rome', released in 1973
'Massacre In Rome' National General Pictures, 1973
(Version Two)
An earlier edition of the factual wartime drama, 'Massacre In Rome'
This differently packaged version was released in 2000 and was released by M.I.A Video and Surf Films with the catalogue number DVB 1018.
No bonus material features on this official DVD release
The synopsis of the film is included on the cover notes and reads;
Rome 1944-The last days of the Nazi occupation.
A group of partisans plan an attack on a German Wehrmacht 'police' column.
At German Headquarters, Lt Col. Herbert Kappler (portrayed by Richard Burton), the Gestapo chief, warns his commanding officer General Kurt Maezler (played by Leo McKern) not to allow the column to march the next day for fear of an attack.
Tension mounts as the partisans carry out their bomb attack with thirty-two Germans dead and then seek refuge with Father Antonelli (Marcello Mastroianni). The German High Command gives orders for one of the war's most unforgivable acts of revenge - 'The Massacre Of Rome'.
This differently packaged version was released in 2000 and was released by M.I.A Video and Surf Films with the catalogue number DVB 1018.
No bonus material features on this official DVD release
The synopsis of the film is included on the cover notes and reads;
Rome 1944-The last days of the Nazi occupation.
A group of partisans plan an attack on a German Wehrmacht 'police' column.
At German Headquarters, Lt Col. Herbert Kappler (portrayed by Richard Burton), the Gestapo chief, warns his commanding officer General Kurt Maezler (played by Leo McKern) not to allow the column to march the next day for fear of an attack.
Tension mounts as the partisans carry out their bomb attack with thirty-two Germans dead and then seek refuge with Father Antonelli (Marcello Mastroianni). The German High Command gives orders for one of the war's most unforgivable acts of revenge - 'The Massacre Of Rome'.
'Sutjeska' American International Pictures, 1973
An official DVD release of the 1973 World War II historical Partisan drama, 'The Battle Of Sutjeska'.
'The Battle Of Sutjeska', also known as simply 'Sutjeska' and also as 'The Fifth Offensive' co-starred Irene Papas and Gunter Meisner.
The film was directed by Stipe Delic and was produced by Nikola Popovic. The screenplay for the film was written by Branimir Scepanovic, Sergei Bondarchuk and Wolf Mankowitz.
The original film was distributed by American International Pictures and was released to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the 1943 Yugoslavian Partisan battle of Sutjeska, which was led by Marshal Tito, whom Richard Burton portrays in the film. The film remains to this day one of the most expensive ever made in Yugoslavia.
'The Battle Of Sujeska' was selected for the 'Best Foreign Language' film at the 46th Academy Awards, but was not accepted as a nominee.
'The Battle Of Sutjeska' was released in Yugoslavia on the 3rd of July, 1973.
The filming took place entirely in the mountain ranges, plains and National Parks of Montenegro, Yugoslavia.
This version is a completely subtitled film as it was filmed using Serbo-Croatian, German and English languages
This edition was released by Arrow Films in 2010 and issued with the catalogue number FCD412.
'This Yugoslavian epic was made for the 30th anniversary of the Battle of Sutjeska, the toughest battle Yugoslav Partisans had to fight in World War Two.
Portraying the struggle of the Partisans against the might of the German army and the military exploits of Marshall Tito (Richard Burton) who is instrumental in resisting Nazi efforts to exterminate his countrymen. He leads the Partisans on a dangerous trek to safety, culminating in a climatic battle at the Sutjeska River.'
'The Battle Of Sutjeska', also known as simply 'Sutjeska' and also as 'The Fifth Offensive' co-starred Irene Papas and Gunter Meisner.
The film was directed by Stipe Delic and was produced by Nikola Popovic. The screenplay for the film was written by Branimir Scepanovic, Sergei Bondarchuk and Wolf Mankowitz.
The original film was distributed by American International Pictures and was released to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the 1943 Yugoslavian Partisan battle of Sutjeska, which was led by Marshal Tito, whom Richard Burton portrays in the film. The film remains to this day one of the most expensive ever made in Yugoslavia.
'The Battle Of Sujeska' was selected for the 'Best Foreign Language' film at the 46th Academy Awards, but was not accepted as a nominee.
'The Battle Of Sutjeska' was released in Yugoslavia on the 3rd of July, 1973.
The filming took place entirely in the mountain ranges, plains and National Parks of Montenegro, Yugoslavia.
This version is a completely subtitled film as it was filmed using Serbo-Croatian, German and English languages
This edition was released by Arrow Films in 2010 and issued with the catalogue number FCD412.
'This Yugoslavian epic was made for the 30th anniversary of the Battle of Sutjeska, the toughest battle Yugoslav Partisans had to fight in World War Two.
Portraying the struggle of the Partisans against the might of the German army and the military exploits of Marshall Tito (Richard Burton) who is instrumental in resisting Nazi efforts to exterminate his countrymen. He leads the Partisans on a dangerous trek to safety, culminating in a climatic battle at the Sutjeska River.'
'The Battle Of Sutjeska' International Pictures, 1973
(Version Two)
This U.K. DVD version of 'The Battle Of Sutjeska' was released with the alternative title of 'The Fifth Offensive'.
This official U.K. copy was released by Arrow Films in 2012 and was issued with the catalogue number FCD580.
This version differs from the above edition of 'The Battle Of Sutjeska' as it has been restored to the original soundtrack in which the languages used are Spanish, German and English.
This official U.K. copy was released by Arrow Films in 2012 and was issued with the catalogue number FCD580.
This version differs from the above edition of 'The Battle Of Sutjeska' as it has been restored to the original soundtrack in which the languages used are Spanish, German and English.
'The Voyage' / 'Il Viaggio' United Artists, 1974
A copy of the official DVD release of the 1974 film 'The Voyage', also known by the alternative original titles of 'Il Viaggio' and 'The Journey'.
This romantic drama was directed by Vittorio De Sica, with Richard Burton cast in the role of Cesare Braggi and co-starred Sophia Loren and Ian Bannen.
Sophia Loren won two 'Best Actress' awards at the 1974 San Sebastian International Film Festival for her portrayal of Adriana.
'The Voyage' was based on the short story by Nobel Prize winning author Luigi Pirandello and opened in cinemas on the 11th of March, 1974.
Filming took place in and around Milan, Naples and Sicily whilst the interior shooting took place at the Dear Studios in Rome.
The production company for 'the Voyage' was the Compagnia Cinematografica Champion and was originally distributed through United Artists.
The musical score for the film was composed and performed by the son of Vittorio De Sica, Manuel.
'The Voyage' / Il Viaggio' was to be legendary film director Vittorio De Sica's final completed film.
This edition was released on DVD by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Home Entertainment in association with United Artists and Optimum Classic DVD in 2008 and issued with the catalogue number OPTD135.
The cover notes for this edition read;
'Celebrated director Vittorio De Sica was the father of post-war Italian neo realism. Making his mark with the unforgettable classic 'The Bicycle Thieves'. De Sica not only changed the face of cinema but changed the lives of his audience with his unique approach to film making and his touching, realistic and compassionate portrayal of the human condition. 'The Voyage' was his final film and remains as heart-breaking today as on its original release in the mid-seventies. Based on a short novel by Nobel Prize winning author Luigi Pirandello, 'The Voyage' is a moving tale of love, life and resolution. Elegantly directed, it follows the tragic circumstances surrounding a love triangle involving two Sicilian brothers and the object of their desire, Adriana De Mauro.'
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The opening screen credits for the 1974 United Artists production of 'The Voyage'.
'Brief Encounter' ITC Entertainment, 1974
The second film in a row to star Richard Burton appearing alongside Sophia Loren.
This is the 1974 Anglo / Italian re-make of Noel Coward's 'Brief Encounter' which in turn was based on Coward's play 'Still Life', originally written in 1936.
The film was adapted from the classic 1945 film starring Trevor Howard and Celia Johnson. This version, with Richard Burton cast in the role of Dr. Alec Harvey, the role made famous by Trevor Howard in the 1945 version, co-starred Sophia Loren, Jack Hedley, Rosemary Leach and features a wonderful cameo appearance from John Le Mesurier.
'Brief Encounter' was directed by Alan Bridges and produced by Cecil Clarke, Carlo Ponti, Sophia Loren's husband, and Denis Holt and was based on an original contemporary screenplay written by John Bowen.
The filming of 'Brief Encounter' took place in and around Winchester in Hampshire, Brockenhurst railway station and the New Forest.
This was a 'Made For Television' film for the Hallmark Hall Of Fame, distributed by ITC Films and was first shown on the American television channel, NBC on the 12th of November, 1974.
This edition was released on DVD by Infinity Media Holdings and Granada Ventures in 2006 and was issued with the catalogue number INF275. The bonus features included on this edition include biographies of both Richard Burton and Sophia Loren, an in-depth background feature of the film and a photo gallery.
The synopsis of the film, which forms the cover notes for this 2006 DVD release, read;
'The combined star-power of two of cinema's 'greats' _ Richard Burton and Sophia Loren - illuminates this update of one of the most poignant cinematic love stories of all time.
'Brief Encounter' is Noel Coward's classic tale of a doomed romance. When unhappily married doctor Alec Harvey (Richard Burton) removes a piece of grit from the eye of fellow train-traveller Anna Jesson (Sophia Loren), little do they suspect that this chance encounter will turn into a passionate relationship. Alec relentlessly pursues Anna, but she is tormented by guilt as the fantasy dream becomes a nightmare of deceit, and she realises she is betraying both her husband and children.'
This is the 1974 Anglo / Italian re-make of Noel Coward's 'Brief Encounter' which in turn was based on Coward's play 'Still Life', originally written in 1936.
The film was adapted from the classic 1945 film starring Trevor Howard and Celia Johnson. This version, with Richard Burton cast in the role of Dr. Alec Harvey, the role made famous by Trevor Howard in the 1945 version, co-starred Sophia Loren, Jack Hedley, Rosemary Leach and features a wonderful cameo appearance from John Le Mesurier.
'Brief Encounter' was directed by Alan Bridges and produced by Cecil Clarke, Carlo Ponti, Sophia Loren's husband, and Denis Holt and was based on an original contemporary screenplay written by John Bowen.
The filming of 'Brief Encounter' took place in and around Winchester in Hampshire, Brockenhurst railway station and the New Forest.
This was a 'Made For Television' film for the Hallmark Hall Of Fame, distributed by ITC Films and was first shown on the American television channel, NBC on the 12th of November, 1974.
This edition was released on DVD by Infinity Media Holdings and Granada Ventures in 2006 and was issued with the catalogue number INF275. The bonus features included on this edition include biographies of both Richard Burton and Sophia Loren, an in-depth background feature of the film and a photo gallery.
The synopsis of the film, which forms the cover notes for this 2006 DVD release, read;
'The combined star-power of two of cinema's 'greats' _ Richard Burton and Sophia Loren - illuminates this update of one of the most poignant cinematic love stories of all time.
'Brief Encounter' is Noel Coward's classic tale of a doomed romance. When unhappily married doctor Alec Harvey (Richard Burton) removes a piece of grit from the eye of fellow train-traveller Anna Jesson (Sophia Loren), little do they suspect that this chance encounter will turn into a passionate relationship. Alec relentlessly pursues Anna, but she is tormented by guilt as the fantasy dream becomes a nightmare of deceit, and she realises she is betraying both her husband and children.'
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The title screens from the 1974 Cecil Clarke and Carlo Ponti production of 'Brief Encounter' which co-starred Sophia Loren
'The Klansman' Paramount Pictures, 1974
A copy of the official U.K. DVD release of the 1974 film, 'The Klansman'.
Advertised as 'An explosive and dark story of racial intolerance and bigotry in the Deep South', the film co-starred Lee Marvin, Linda Evans and O.J. Simpson and was directed by Terence Young and produced by William D. Alexander and Bill Travers.
The original film was distributed by Paramount Pictures.
'The Klansman' was based on the 'Pulitzer Prize' winning book of the same name written by William Bradford Huie, with the screenplay being written by Millard Kaufman and Samuel Fuller. The drama centers on a liberal landowner, played by Richard Burton, in conflict with the Ku Klux Klan.
The entire filming for 'The Klansman' took place in the American town of Oroville, California.
The film was released to American cinema audiences on the 25th of October, 1974.
This DVD edition was released by DEL DVD in 2004 with the catalogue number DEL2007.
The cover notes for this 2004 release read;
'Based on a controversial novel by William Bradford Huie, the 1974 movie 'The Klansman' stars Richard Burton., Lee Marvin and Linda Evans in an explosive and dark drama about the Klu Klux Klan and a militant black community, set in the Deep South of the United States.
When a local woman Nancy Poteet (Linda Evans) is raped in a small Alabama town that is renowned as a hotbed for Klu Klux Klan activity, emotions soon flare up and get out of hand - particularly when the local Klan, headed by the town Mayor (David Huddleston) falsely accuse an innocent black youth of being the perpetrator.
Lee Marvin as Sheriff Bascomb takes on the Klu Klux Klan, with explosive consequences. Temperatures quickly soar beyond boiling point as the inevitable showdown between the Klan and the black community erupts.
This electrifying drama, which exposes a racial intolerance and bigotry in the darkest sense, also stars Richard Burton as Breck Stancill and O.J. Simpson in the role of Garth.'
Advertised as 'An explosive and dark story of racial intolerance and bigotry in the Deep South', the film co-starred Lee Marvin, Linda Evans and O.J. Simpson and was directed by Terence Young and produced by William D. Alexander and Bill Travers.
The original film was distributed by Paramount Pictures.
'The Klansman' was based on the 'Pulitzer Prize' winning book of the same name written by William Bradford Huie, with the screenplay being written by Millard Kaufman and Samuel Fuller. The drama centers on a liberal landowner, played by Richard Burton, in conflict with the Ku Klux Klan.
The entire filming for 'The Klansman' took place in the American town of Oroville, California.
The film was released to American cinema audiences on the 25th of October, 1974.
This DVD edition was released by DEL DVD in 2004 with the catalogue number DEL2007.
The cover notes for this 2004 release read;
'Based on a controversial novel by William Bradford Huie, the 1974 movie 'The Klansman' stars Richard Burton., Lee Marvin and Linda Evans in an explosive and dark drama about the Klu Klux Klan and a militant black community, set in the Deep South of the United States.
When a local woman Nancy Poteet (Linda Evans) is raped in a small Alabama town that is renowned as a hotbed for Klu Klux Klan activity, emotions soon flare up and get out of hand - particularly when the local Klan, headed by the town Mayor (David Huddleston) falsely accuse an innocent black youth of being the perpetrator.
Lee Marvin as Sheriff Bascomb takes on the Klu Klux Klan, with explosive consequences. Temperatures quickly soar beyond boiling point as the inevitable showdown between the Klan and the black community erupts.
This electrifying drama, which exposes a racial intolerance and bigotry in the darkest sense, also stars Richard Burton as Breck Stancill and O.J. Simpson in the role of Garth.'
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The opening title screens for the controversial 1974 film, 'The Klansman', which co-starred Lee Marvin and Linda Evans
'Equus' United Artists, 1977
A copy of the official DVD release of the Award-winning psychological drama, 'Equus'.
Directed by Sidney Lumet and produced by Elliott Kastner, the film was adapted from the stage play (in which Richard Burton also starred on Broadway) by Peter Shaffer, who also wrote the screenplay.
The film co-starred Peter Firth, Jenny Agutter, Joan Plowright, Harry Andrews and Colin Blakely.
The stunning cinematography was by Oswald Morris
The haunting musical score for 'Equus' was composed by Richard Rodney Bennett.
This was to be the last film for which Richard Burton was nominated for an Academy Award, however Jenny Agutter won an Academy Award and a BAFTA for 'Best Actress' and the film was nominated in three other categories.
Richard Burton won a Golden Globe award for his outstanding portrayal of Dr. Martin Dysart.
'Equus' was filmed entirely in Canada and was originally distributed by United Artists.
The film was released to U.K. cinema audiences on October the 14th, 1977.
This DVD edition was released in the U.K. by MGM Home Entertainment in 2004 with the catalogue number 15804DVDMZ1.
The cover notes for this DVD edition read;
'This Oscar-nominated adaption of Peter Schaffer's Tony Award-winning play erupts on the screen with the same power and passion as the stage original. Richard Burton gives one of his best performances ever in this elegant and provocative tale of myth and magic.
What would drive Alan Strang (Peter Firth), a troubled adolescent stable boy, to blind six horses with a metal spike? Psychiatrist Martin Dysart (Burton) investigates these unspeakable acts and delves deep into Alan's psyche, confronting the mysteries of sexual passion and madness - as well as the dark demons buried within his own soul'.
Directed by Sidney Lumet and produced by Elliott Kastner, the film was adapted from the stage play (in which Richard Burton also starred on Broadway) by Peter Shaffer, who also wrote the screenplay.
The film co-starred Peter Firth, Jenny Agutter, Joan Plowright, Harry Andrews and Colin Blakely.
The stunning cinematography was by Oswald Morris
The haunting musical score for 'Equus' was composed by Richard Rodney Bennett.
This was to be the last film for which Richard Burton was nominated for an Academy Award, however Jenny Agutter won an Academy Award and a BAFTA for 'Best Actress' and the film was nominated in three other categories.
Richard Burton won a Golden Globe award for his outstanding portrayal of Dr. Martin Dysart.
'Equus' was filmed entirely in Canada and was originally distributed by United Artists.
The film was released to U.K. cinema audiences on October the 14th, 1977.
This DVD edition was released in the U.K. by MGM Home Entertainment in 2004 with the catalogue number 15804DVDMZ1.
The cover notes for this DVD edition read;
'This Oscar-nominated adaption of Peter Schaffer's Tony Award-winning play erupts on the screen with the same power and passion as the stage original. Richard Burton gives one of his best performances ever in this elegant and provocative tale of myth and magic.
What would drive Alan Strang (Peter Firth), a troubled adolescent stable boy, to blind six horses with a metal spike? Psychiatrist Martin Dysart (Burton) investigates these unspeakable acts and delves deep into Alan's psyche, confronting the mysteries of sexual passion and madness - as well as the dark demons buried within his own soul'.
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The opening screen titles for the 1977 harrowing United Artists psychological drama, 'Equus'.
'Exorcist II The Heretic' Warner Brothers Studios, 1977
A copy of the 'Special Edition' Box-Set DVD release of the 1977 horror film 'Exorcist II The Heretic', the supposed sequel to the 1973 William Friedkin classic horror film 'The Exorcist.'
Richard Burton was cast in the role of Father Phillip Lamont in a film which failed to ignite the box-office and audiences alike due to a very confusing script and storyline.
The film co-starred Linda Blair, Max Von Sydow, Louise Fletcher and James Earl Jones.
'The Heretic' was directed by John Boorman and based on a screenplay written by William Goodhart. The film was produced by John Boorman with the assistance of Richard Lederer and released through Warner Brothers.
The musical score for the film was composed by Ennio Morricone
The interior filming for 'Exorcist II The Heretic' took place at the Warner Brothers Burbank Studios in California whilst the exterior shooting included various locations in Utah, Arizona, New York and the famous Hitchcock Steps, located in Georgetown, Washington.
'Exorcist II The Heretic' was first shown in U.K. cinemas on the 15th of September, 1977.
This 'Special Edition' DVD was issued as part of a deluxe three-disc box set entitled, 'The Exorcist Trilogy' released in 2002 with the catalogue number Z1 23725. The bonus material which features on the 'Exorcist II' disc include an alternative opening scene and various theatrical trailers.
Richard Burton was cast in the role of Father Phillip Lamont in a film which failed to ignite the box-office and audiences alike due to a very confusing script and storyline.
The film co-starred Linda Blair, Max Von Sydow, Louise Fletcher and James Earl Jones.
'The Heretic' was directed by John Boorman and based on a screenplay written by William Goodhart. The film was produced by John Boorman with the assistance of Richard Lederer and released through Warner Brothers.
The musical score for the film was composed by Ennio Morricone
The interior filming for 'Exorcist II The Heretic' took place at the Warner Brothers Burbank Studios in California whilst the exterior shooting included various locations in Utah, Arizona, New York and the famous Hitchcock Steps, located in Georgetown, Washington.
'Exorcist II The Heretic' was first shown in U.K. cinemas on the 15th of September, 1977.
This 'Special Edition' DVD was issued as part of a deluxe three-disc box set entitled, 'The Exorcist Trilogy' released in 2002 with the catalogue number Z1 23725. The bonus material which features on the 'Exorcist II' disc include an alternative opening scene and various theatrical trailers.
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Directed by John Boorman, the Exorcist II takes place four years later, with the young girl Regan still haunted by her exorcism. Father Lamont and Dr. Gene Tuskin work together trying to clear the last corners of Regan's spiritual disorder. They trace the evil power back to Africa and the cult of the locust.'
'The Wild Geese' The Rank Film Organisation, 1978
A copy of the official DVD release of the 1978 action film, 'The Wild Geese'.
The film co-starred a host of stars of stage and screen including Richard Harris, Roger Moore, Hardy Kruger, Frank Finlay, Stewart Granger, Jack Watson, Kenneth Griffith, Ronald Fraser and Patrick Allen.
The film, based upon the novel 'The Thin White Line' by Daniel Carney, was directed by Andrew V. McLaglen and produced by Euan Lloyd.
The interior filming for 'The Wild Geese' took place at the Twickenham Film Studios in Middlesex, the stunning locations chosen for the exterior shooting were filmed in the Northern Transvaal and Messina, South Africa.
This U.K. DVD edition was released by Mosaic and Victory Films in 2004 with the catalogue number D093867.
The bonus features on this disc include an audio commentary by Sir Roger Moore, 'The Last Of The Gentleman Producers' documentary and footage of the original Royal Charity Premiere which took place on the 6th of July, 1978.
'The Wild Geese' won a Golden Screen Award in 1980.
The cover notes to this official U.K. DVD release read;
'Their home is the battlefield. Their calling is war. Their only loyalty is to each other. They are the Wild Geese, fifty crack mercenary paratroopers commanded by fearless veteran Colonel Faulkner (Richard Burton).
Their mission: To land in a remote and hostile corner of Africa, free the one man who can change as nation's destiny, seize the airport and make their escape...
But while the Wild Geese are fighting and dying in the African sun, sinister forces in the corridors of power are working to seal their fate.'
This DVD is complete with a limited edition colour booklet, written by Jonathan Sothcott and Tony Earnshaw, which traces the history of the making of ''The Wild Geese'.
Interestingly, Richard Burton was due to reprise his role of Colonel Faulkner in the sequel, 'Wild Geese II' and was to begin filming in the late August of 1984, but died shortly before filming could commence. Upon hearing of Richard Burton's death, Roger Moore, who was also signed-up to appear in the film, declined to be involved in the project as a mark of respect to his friend. 'Wild Geese II' was dedicated to Richard Burton's memory and his name appears on the title credits.
The film co-starred a host of stars of stage and screen including Richard Harris, Roger Moore, Hardy Kruger, Frank Finlay, Stewart Granger, Jack Watson, Kenneth Griffith, Ronald Fraser and Patrick Allen.
The film, based upon the novel 'The Thin White Line' by Daniel Carney, was directed by Andrew V. McLaglen and produced by Euan Lloyd.
The interior filming for 'The Wild Geese' took place at the Twickenham Film Studios in Middlesex, the stunning locations chosen for the exterior shooting were filmed in the Northern Transvaal and Messina, South Africa.
This U.K. DVD edition was released by Mosaic and Victory Films in 2004 with the catalogue number D093867.
The bonus features on this disc include an audio commentary by Sir Roger Moore, 'The Last Of The Gentleman Producers' documentary and footage of the original Royal Charity Premiere which took place on the 6th of July, 1978.
'The Wild Geese' won a Golden Screen Award in 1980.
The cover notes to this official U.K. DVD release read;
'Their home is the battlefield. Their calling is war. Their only loyalty is to each other. They are the Wild Geese, fifty crack mercenary paratroopers commanded by fearless veteran Colonel Faulkner (Richard Burton).
Their mission: To land in a remote and hostile corner of Africa, free the one man who can change as nation's destiny, seize the airport and make their escape...
But while the Wild Geese are fighting and dying in the African sun, sinister forces in the corridors of power are working to seal their fate.'
This DVD is complete with a limited edition colour booklet, written by Jonathan Sothcott and Tony Earnshaw, which traces the history of the making of ''The Wild Geese'.
Interestingly, Richard Burton was due to reprise his role of Colonel Faulkner in the sequel, 'Wild Geese II' and was to begin filming in the late August of 1984, but died shortly before filming could commence. Upon hearing of Richard Burton's death, Roger Moore, who was also signed-up to appear in the film, declined to be involved in the project as a mark of respect to his friend. 'Wild Geese II' was dedicated to Richard Burton's memory and his name appears on the title credits.
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The stunning opening credits which are accompanied by the haunting title song,'The Flight of the Wild Geese' performed by Joan Armatrading.
'The Medusa Touch' ITC Entertainment, 1978
A copy of the official U.K. 'Special Edition' DVD release of the 1978 psychological thriller, 'The Medusa Touch'.
This tense psychological thriller co-starred Lee Remick, Lino Ventura, Harry Andrews, Derek Jacobi and Jeremy Brett.
The film was directed by Jack Gold and was based on the original 1975 novel by Peter Van Greenaway, with the screenplay written by John Briley.
Richard Burton was perfectly cast in the powerful role of John Morlar, an author who discovers he has the gift of being able to cause catastrophic occurrences with the use of his telekinetic power.
The film was produced by Anne V. Coates and Jack Gold.
Interior shots for 'The Medusa Touch' took place at Pinewood Studios, Buckinghamshire whilst various locations in London, including The Cenotaph and St. James's Park were used for outside filming. 'Minster Cathedral', as the building was named in the dramatic finale to the film, was in fact Bristol Cathedral.
'The Medusa Touch' opened to American cinema audiences on the 14th of April, 1978.
This 'Special Edition' DVD was released by ITC Entertainment in 2008 with the catalogue number 7952515 and has been 'High Definition' digitally restored.
A 'Limited Edition' colour booklet is included with this 'Special Edition' 2008 DVD release, written by novelist and critic, Kim Newman.
Extras on this release include high-definition digital restoration, an audio commentary by Jack Gold, 'Behind The Scenes' footage entitled 'Destroying The Abbey', the original theatrical trailer and an image gallery.
The synopsis, taken from the cover notes to this 'Special Edition' release read;
'John Morlar (Richard Burton) a well-known novelist, is savagely attacked in his London flat. Barely alive, he is taken to hospital. Detective Brunel (Lino Ventura) is assigned to the case. He comes across Morlar's journal, which leads him to a mysterious woman named Zonfeld (Lee Remick) who is Morlar's doctor.
Zonfeld discloses that her patient is obsessed. He feels he bears an awesome telekinetic power - the power to 'will' destruction and death. He can make airplanes crash, buildings crumble, start raging fires and unleash mighty floods. he believes he possesses the gift of evil, and dangerously demonstrates his power. What at first seems preposterous soon becomes sickeningly real. Morlar is able to wreak havoc at will. Brunel desperately wants to stop the next tragedy, but can he kill this man? If released from his mortal confines how far can the power of his mind roam?
Directed by Jack Gold from a script by John Briley, 'The Medusa Touch' is a highly effective, face paced thriller which ends in a spectacular and spine-chilling climax. The 'Special Edition' of the film is sourced from the brand new HD digitally restored master and is presented in its original aspect ratio.'
This tense psychological thriller co-starred Lee Remick, Lino Ventura, Harry Andrews, Derek Jacobi and Jeremy Brett.
The film was directed by Jack Gold and was based on the original 1975 novel by Peter Van Greenaway, with the screenplay written by John Briley.
Richard Burton was perfectly cast in the powerful role of John Morlar, an author who discovers he has the gift of being able to cause catastrophic occurrences with the use of his telekinetic power.
The film was produced by Anne V. Coates and Jack Gold.
Interior shots for 'The Medusa Touch' took place at Pinewood Studios, Buckinghamshire whilst various locations in London, including The Cenotaph and St. James's Park were used for outside filming. 'Minster Cathedral', as the building was named in the dramatic finale to the film, was in fact Bristol Cathedral.
'The Medusa Touch' opened to American cinema audiences on the 14th of April, 1978.
This 'Special Edition' DVD was released by ITC Entertainment in 2008 with the catalogue number 7952515 and has been 'High Definition' digitally restored.
A 'Limited Edition' colour booklet is included with this 'Special Edition' 2008 DVD release, written by novelist and critic, Kim Newman.
Extras on this release include high-definition digital restoration, an audio commentary by Jack Gold, 'Behind The Scenes' footage entitled 'Destroying The Abbey', the original theatrical trailer and an image gallery.
The synopsis, taken from the cover notes to this 'Special Edition' release read;
'John Morlar (Richard Burton) a well-known novelist, is savagely attacked in his London flat. Barely alive, he is taken to hospital. Detective Brunel (Lino Ventura) is assigned to the case. He comes across Morlar's journal, which leads him to a mysterious woman named Zonfeld (Lee Remick) who is Morlar's doctor.
Zonfeld discloses that her patient is obsessed. He feels he bears an awesome telekinetic power - the power to 'will' destruction and death. He can make airplanes crash, buildings crumble, start raging fires and unleash mighty floods. he believes he possesses the gift of evil, and dangerously demonstrates his power. What at first seems preposterous soon becomes sickeningly real. Morlar is able to wreak havoc at will. Brunel desperately wants to stop the next tragedy, but can he kill this man? If released from his mortal confines how far can the power of his mind roam?
Directed by Jack Gold from a script by John Briley, 'The Medusa Touch' is a highly effective, face paced thriller which ends in a spectacular and spine-chilling climax. The 'Special Edition' of the film is sourced from the brand new HD digitally restored master and is presented in its original aspect ratio.'
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The haunting opening title screens for the 1978 ITC Entertainment production of the psychological thriller, 'The Medusa Touch'.
'Absolution' Universal Pictures, 1979
An official DVD release of the 1979 psychological thriller, 'Absolution', which was also known by the alternative title of 'Murder By Confession'.
The film co-starred Dominic Guard, Andrew Keir, Sharon Duce, Brook Williams, Brian Glover, Dai Bradley, (famous for his early role as Billy Casper in 'Kes'), and Scottish comedian, Billy Connolly in his debut film role.
'Absolution' was directed by Anthony Page and was based on an unperformed play entitled, 'Play With A Gypsy', written by Anthony Shaffer, twin brother of 'Equus' writer Peter Shaffer.
The atmospheric musical score for the film was composed by Stanley Myers.
Richard Burton is in fine, powerful performance in the role of Father Goddard, a priest at a Catholic boy's school, who is tricked into a lethal mind game by two of his pupils.
Many important scenes were cut from the final edit of the film, scenes which, had they been retained would make more sense of the conflict between the main three characters.
Sadly, Richard Burton turned down the opportunity of playing King Lear on stage in Canada to take part in this film, a role he longed to play, and a role which would have surely confirmed his status as a major force on the theatrical stage.
In his own autobiography, entitled 'Billy', Billy Connolly wrote that during the filming of the forest scene, he had to lie perfectly still wearing 'dead' make-up and was half covered with leaves and soil in a hastily dug grave. Richard Burton approached the horrific scene, digging with his own hands to move away the debris of leaves and earth from Billy's face in a very highly-charged powerful scene...and had to lean over the horrific discovery of Billy's dead body with fear and dread on his face. However Billy couldn't keep a straight face for his own close-up during this scene as Richard Burton had burst into song at the top of his voice, out of shot, with a verse of 'I Belong To Glasgow' !
The poem which Richard Burton reads to Dominic Guard in an early scene of the film was completely ad-libbed. Richard Burton chose to read 'The Leaden Echo And The Golden Echo' by Gerard Manley Hopkins, a poem notoriously difficult to quote, and a poem which he loved. He also continued with an improvised discussion about the poem with the young actor.
The film critic, Dragan Antulov wrote of the film;
"Absolution takes place in isolated yet realistic settings, and the real source of the tension is within the characters. Shaffer never takes sides and until the very end the audience is left to sympathise with different characters, never quite certain who among them is good or bad. Because of that constant uncertainty, the atmosphere of the film is very dark and unusually the bitter ending comes as something quite natural".
The interior filming for 'Absolution' took place at Pinewood Studios, Buckinghamshire, whilst the actual location used for the boy's school was Ellesmere College in Shropshire.
The U.K. Premiere of 'Absolution' took place at the St. Martins Lane Cinema, London in December of 1978 but didn't actually go on general release until 1981.
'Absolution' was produced by Elliott Kastner and was distributed by Universal Pictures.
This edition was released by 20th Century DVD with the catalogue number EL0283.
The synopsis, taken from the cover notes for this edition, read;
'Father Goddard, played by Richard Burton is a rigid, opinionated priest and schoolmaster of a Catholic Boy's Public School, he favours some pupils and cruelly rejects others, but affects them all with his discipline and regulations.
Neurotic Benji is Goddard's favourite pupil and Arthur is his weak, snivelling classmate who worships him and pesters him with unceasing chatter. Benji barely tolerates this unwelcome adulation.
Then Blakie, the traveller, arrives who answers to no man and acknowledges no authority and he becomes a herald of death as a despicable murder occurs.'
The film co-starred Dominic Guard, Andrew Keir, Sharon Duce, Brook Williams, Brian Glover, Dai Bradley, (famous for his early role as Billy Casper in 'Kes'), and Scottish comedian, Billy Connolly in his debut film role.
'Absolution' was directed by Anthony Page and was based on an unperformed play entitled, 'Play With A Gypsy', written by Anthony Shaffer, twin brother of 'Equus' writer Peter Shaffer.
The atmospheric musical score for the film was composed by Stanley Myers.
Richard Burton is in fine, powerful performance in the role of Father Goddard, a priest at a Catholic boy's school, who is tricked into a lethal mind game by two of his pupils.
Many important scenes were cut from the final edit of the film, scenes which, had they been retained would make more sense of the conflict between the main three characters.
Sadly, Richard Burton turned down the opportunity of playing King Lear on stage in Canada to take part in this film, a role he longed to play, and a role which would have surely confirmed his status as a major force on the theatrical stage.
In his own autobiography, entitled 'Billy', Billy Connolly wrote that during the filming of the forest scene, he had to lie perfectly still wearing 'dead' make-up and was half covered with leaves and soil in a hastily dug grave. Richard Burton approached the horrific scene, digging with his own hands to move away the debris of leaves and earth from Billy's face in a very highly-charged powerful scene...and had to lean over the horrific discovery of Billy's dead body with fear and dread on his face. However Billy couldn't keep a straight face for his own close-up during this scene as Richard Burton had burst into song at the top of his voice, out of shot, with a verse of 'I Belong To Glasgow' !
The poem which Richard Burton reads to Dominic Guard in an early scene of the film was completely ad-libbed. Richard Burton chose to read 'The Leaden Echo And The Golden Echo' by Gerard Manley Hopkins, a poem notoriously difficult to quote, and a poem which he loved. He also continued with an improvised discussion about the poem with the young actor.
The film critic, Dragan Antulov wrote of the film;
"Absolution takes place in isolated yet realistic settings, and the real source of the tension is within the characters. Shaffer never takes sides and until the very end the audience is left to sympathise with different characters, never quite certain who among them is good or bad. Because of that constant uncertainty, the atmosphere of the film is very dark and unusually the bitter ending comes as something quite natural".
The interior filming for 'Absolution' took place at Pinewood Studios, Buckinghamshire, whilst the actual location used for the boy's school was Ellesmere College in Shropshire.
The U.K. Premiere of 'Absolution' took place at the St. Martins Lane Cinema, London in December of 1978 but didn't actually go on general release until 1981.
'Absolution' was produced by Elliott Kastner and was distributed by Universal Pictures.
This edition was released by 20th Century DVD with the catalogue number EL0283.
The synopsis, taken from the cover notes for this edition, read;
'Father Goddard, played by Richard Burton is a rigid, opinionated priest and schoolmaster of a Catholic Boy's Public School, he favours some pupils and cruelly rejects others, but affects them all with his discipline and regulations.
Neurotic Benji is Goddard's favourite pupil and Arthur is his weak, snivelling classmate who worships him and pesters him with unceasing chatter. Benji barely tolerates this unwelcome adulation.
Then Blakie, the traveller, arrives who answers to no man and acknowledges no authority and he becomes a herald of death as a despicable murder occurs.'
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The opening titles for the Universal Pictures production of the thriller, 'Absolution'.
'Lovespell' Paramount Pictures, 1979
A copy of the official American DVD release of the 1979 historical drama, 'Lovespell'.
The film co-starred Kate Mulgrew, Nicholas Clay, Cyril Cusack, Niall Toibin, Geraldine Fitzgerald and Niall O'Brien.
'Lovespell' was directed by Tom Donovan and was produced by Tom Hayes, Douglas Hughes, Claire Labine and Thomas H. Ryan.
The screenplay was written by producer Claire Labine and was based on the medieval legend of Tristan and Isolde, a tale originally written by Sir Thomas Mallory.
Filming for 'Lovespell' took place entirely on location in Ireland and was produced by Paramount Pictures and distributed by John Lucas Limited.
Although completed and ready for distribution in 1979 the film was not released in U.K.
cinemas until 1982.
The stunning special colourised cinematography was filmed by Richard H. Kline.
The musical score, written especially for the film by Paddy Moloney, was performed by the Irish musical group, The Chieftains.
This DVD edition was released by the Shanarchie Entertainment Corporation in 2004 with the catalogue number Shanarchie 303.
The cover notes for this 2004 American DVD release read;
'Set in the ninth century, 'Lovespell' is the legendary story of Isolt (Kate Mulgrew), Druid priestess and daughter of an Irish king, and the spell she casts on two extraordinary men; Mark (Richard Burton) King of Cornwall and Tristan (Nicholas Clay), Mark's nephew and surrogate son.
Captivated on a mission to Ireland by Isolt's spirit and beauty,, Mark decides he must have her for his queen. Tristan delivers Mark's proposal but becomes equally infatuated with Isolt, who also falls in love with him. Isolt impetuously prepares and drinks with Tristan a druid potion that will bind them 'through life, and death and into the hands of God'. Mark discovers the young lovers and flies into a jealous rage but the potion's magic proves immutable. Tristan and Isolt struggle fiercely to regain each other and do...in death.
Richard Burton is magnificent as the love stricken King, torn apart by raging anger and unrequited love, betrayed by his most trusted friend. The film is beautifully shot in brilliant tones which bring alive the greens of the Irish countryside and the magnificence of Medieval pageantry.'
The film co-starred Kate Mulgrew, Nicholas Clay, Cyril Cusack, Niall Toibin, Geraldine Fitzgerald and Niall O'Brien.
'Lovespell' was directed by Tom Donovan and was produced by Tom Hayes, Douglas Hughes, Claire Labine and Thomas H. Ryan.
The screenplay was written by producer Claire Labine and was based on the medieval legend of Tristan and Isolde, a tale originally written by Sir Thomas Mallory.
Filming for 'Lovespell' took place entirely on location in Ireland and was produced by Paramount Pictures and distributed by John Lucas Limited.
Although completed and ready for distribution in 1979 the film was not released in U.K.
cinemas until 1982.
The stunning special colourised cinematography was filmed by Richard H. Kline.
The musical score, written especially for the film by Paddy Moloney, was performed by the Irish musical group, The Chieftains.
This DVD edition was released by the Shanarchie Entertainment Corporation in 2004 with the catalogue number Shanarchie 303.
The cover notes for this 2004 American DVD release read;
'Set in the ninth century, 'Lovespell' is the legendary story of Isolt (Kate Mulgrew), Druid priestess and daughter of an Irish king, and the spell she casts on two extraordinary men; Mark (Richard Burton) King of Cornwall and Tristan (Nicholas Clay), Mark's nephew and surrogate son.
Captivated on a mission to Ireland by Isolt's spirit and beauty,, Mark decides he must have her for his queen. Tristan delivers Mark's proposal but becomes equally infatuated with Isolt, who also falls in love with him. Isolt impetuously prepares and drinks with Tristan a druid potion that will bind them 'through life, and death and into the hands of God'. Mark discovers the young lovers and flies into a jealous rage but the potion's magic proves immutable. Tristan and Isolt struggle fiercely to regain each other and do...in death.
Richard Burton is magnificent as the love stricken King, torn apart by raging anger and unrequited love, betrayed by his most trusted friend. The film is beautifully shot in brilliant tones which bring alive the greens of the Irish countryside and the magnificence of Medieval pageantry.'
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The striking Medieval inspired opening title screens for the 1979 Historical drama 'Lovespell'.
'Circle Of Two' United Artists, 1981
The official DVD release of the 1981 romantic, 'Generation-Gap' drama, 'Circle Of Two'.
This moving film, which had actually been completed two years earlier in 1979, co-starred Tatum O'Neal, Kate Reid and Michael Wincott.
'Circle Of Two' was to be the last film directed by Jules Dassin and was based on the 1971 novel, 'Lessons In Love' written by Marie Therese Baird, with a screenplay written by Thomas Hadley.
Richard Burton was cast as ageing artist Ashley St.Clair, who attracts the attentions of a sixteen-year-old schoolgirl, played by Tatum O'Neal, in this 'generation-gap' love story.
The film was produced by the Film Consortium Of Canada and distributed by United Artists.
Filming for 'Circle of Two' took place in New York and in Toronto, Canada.
Ryan O' Neal and Lee Majors both have brief cameo appearances in the film, portraying patrons of the cinema in the opening scene of the film.
Richard Burton was quoted as saying of the film;
'Circle of Two' is a delicately balanced story. The two personalities have to complement each other very much and be totally believable or they run the risk of being just a dirty old man with a beautiful young girl. It's a tremendous job for the director".
'Circle Of Two' opened in cinemas in the U.K. on the 7th of May, 1981.
This DVD was released by Prism Leisure Corporation in 2001 with the catalogue number PPA 1166.
The cover notes for this 2001 DVD release read;
'In one of his last ever roles Richard Burton stars alongside Oscar-winner Tatum O'Neal in this extraordinary love story directed by critically acclaimed Jules Dassin.
Sarah Norton (O'Neal) is a rebellious sixteen-year-old prep school girl just discovering her newfound sexuality. After an argument in a diner with her boyfriend, she finds comfort in a conversation with stranger Ashley St.Clair (Burton), an ageing artist in his prime. They both find they share a love for art and literature, he encourages her to write and she persuades him to paint again. And so begins this May to September ill-fated romance, when two people so wrong for each other are really so right.'
This moving film, which had actually been completed two years earlier in 1979, co-starred Tatum O'Neal, Kate Reid and Michael Wincott.
'Circle Of Two' was to be the last film directed by Jules Dassin and was based on the 1971 novel, 'Lessons In Love' written by Marie Therese Baird, with a screenplay written by Thomas Hadley.
Richard Burton was cast as ageing artist Ashley St.Clair, who attracts the attentions of a sixteen-year-old schoolgirl, played by Tatum O'Neal, in this 'generation-gap' love story.
The film was produced by the Film Consortium Of Canada and distributed by United Artists.
Filming for 'Circle of Two' took place in New York and in Toronto, Canada.
Ryan O' Neal and Lee Majors both have brief cameo appearances in the film, portraying patrons of the cinema in the opening scene of the film.
Richard Burton was quoted as saying of the film;
'Circle of Two' is a delicately balanced story. The two personalities have to complement each other very much and be totally believable or they run the risk of being just a dirty old man with a beautiful young girl. It's a tremendous job for the director".
'Circle Of Two' opened in cinemas in the U.K. on the 7th of May, 1981.
This DVD was released by Prism Leisure Corporation in 2001 with the catalogue number PPA 1166.
The cover notes for this 2001 DVD release read;
'In one of his last ever roles Richard Burton stars alongside Oscar-winner Tatum O'Neal in this extraordinary love story directed by critically acclaimed Jules Dassin.
Sarah Norton (O'Neal) is a rebellious sixteen-year-old prep school girl just discovering her newfound sexuality. After an argument in a diner with her boyfriend, she finds comfort in a conversation with stranger Ashley St.Clair (Burton), an ageing artist in his prime. They both find they share a love for art and literature, he encourages her to write and she persuades him to paint again. And so begins this May to September ill-fated romance, when two people so wrong for each other are really so right.'
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The title screens from the opening sequence of the 1981 romantic drama, 'Circle of Two'.
'Alice In Wonderland' Thirteen / WNET New York, 1983
A copy of the official American DVD release of the Broadway stage production of 'Alice In Wonderland', based on the classic novels 'Alice's Adventures In Wonderland' and 'Through The Looking Glass' by Lewis Carroll.
This adaption was broadcast as part of the Thirteen / WNET New York PBS series entitled 'Great Performances' in 1983 ( Season 12, Episode 2 ) and the footage was obtained from the Broadway Theatre Archive.
Richard Burton stars as The White Knight, alongside his daughter Kate, in her debut performance, cast in the title role of Alice. The adaption also co-starred Nathan Lane and Donald O'Connor and was directed by Kirk Browning and produced by Ann Blumenthal.
This DVD edition was released in collaboration with Image Entertainment and the Educational Broadcasting Corporation in 2001 and was issued with the catalogue number ID0871BDDVD.
The cover notes for this 2001 DVD release read;
'From the elaborate Broadway revival of the 1932 Eva LeGallienne / Florida Friebus production comes a whimsical retelling of the Lewis Carroll classic. In director Kirk Browning's enchanting adaption, Alice's adventure in the land of fantasy is presented within a contemporary framework. An all-star ensemble cast - including Richard Burton and his daughter Kate - makes this a stellar version of a truly timeless tale and a great theatre treat for young and old alike.'
This adaption was broadcast as part of the Thirteen / WNET New York PBS series entitled 'Great Performances' in 1983 ( Season 12, Episode 2 ) and the footage was obtained from the Broadway Theatre Archive.
Richard Burton stars as The White Knight, alongside his daughter Kate, in her debut performance, cast in the title role of Alice. The adaption also co-starred Nathan Lane and Donald O'Connor and was directed by Kirk Browning and produced by Ann Blumenthal.
This DVD edition was released in collaboration with Image Entertainment and the Educational Broadcasting Corporation in 2001 and was issued with the catalogue number ID0871BDDVD.
The cover notes for this 2001 DVD release read;
'From the elaborate Broadway revival of the 1932 Eva LeGallienne / Florida Friebus production comes a whimsical retelling of the Lewis Carroll classic. In director Kirk Browning's enchanting adaption, Alice's adventure in the land of fantasy is presented within a contemporary framework. An all-star ensemble cast - including Richard Burton and his daughter Kate - makes this a stellar version of a truly timeless tale and a great theatre treat for young and old alike.'
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Two lovely images of Richard and Kate Burton taken from the opening credits of the Broadway production of, 'Alice in Wonderland'.
Tony Palmer's 'Wagner' London Trust Films, 1983
A copy of the official U.K. DVD release of the three-disc box set of the 1983 epic biographical film drama, 'Wagner'.
A stunning masterpiece directed by Tony Palmer, who also directed and edited the Award winning television documentary entitled 'Richard Burton-In From the Cold?'
The screenplay for 'Wagner' was written by Charles Wood.
The film co-starred Vanessa Redgrave, Gemma Craven, Arthur Lowe and Ronald Pickup, 'Wagner' also featured the three Knights of stage and screen, Sir's, Laurence Olivier, John Gielgud and Ralph Richardson.
The incredible and powerful musical score was conducted by Sir Georg Solti, with the Philharmonic Orchestras of London, Vienna and Budapest.
'Wagner' was filmed in locations which included Germany, Austria, Italy, Ireland, Hungary, France, Switzerland and England.
This three-disc box set was released in 2005 by Chronicle and Metronome Distribution and was issued with the catalogue number MTD 5189. The bonus features included on this three-disc edition include a documentary entitles 'Wagner - The Man and his Legacy', cast biographies and trailers for upcoming Chronicle releases.
This three-disc edition of 'Wagner' runs for seven hours and forty-nine minutes.
A stunning masterpiece directed by Tony Palmer, who also directed and edited the Award winning television documentary entitled 'Richard Burton-In From the Cold?'
The screenplay for 'Wagner' was written by Charles Wood.
The film co-starred Vanessa Redgrave, Gemma Craven, Arthur Lowe and Ronald Pickup, 'Wagner' also featured the three Knights of stage and screen, Sir's, Laurence Olivier, John Gielgud and Ralph Richardson.
The incredible and powerful musical score was conducted by Sir Georg Solti, with the Philharmonic Orchestras of London, Vienna and Budapest.
'Wagner' was filmed in locations which included Germany, Austria, Italy, Ireland, Hungary, France, Switzerland and England.
This three-disc box set was released in 2005 by Chronicle and Metronome Distribution and was issued with the catalogue number MTD 5189. The bonus features included on this three-disc edition include a documentary entitles 'Wagner - The Man and his Legacy', cast biographies and trailers for upcoming Chronicle releases.
This three-disc edition of 'Wagner' runs for seven hours and forty-nine minutes.
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Screenshots taken from the Gothic opening credits of the epic television drama 'Wagner' from 1983'.
Tony Palmer's 'Wagner' London Trust Films, 1983
(Version Two)
A copy of the official Dutch version of the four-disc DVD edition of 'Wagner'.
This set is the complete unedited nine hour version and was released in 2007 by London Trust Cultural Productions.
This edition was packaged by Video Film Express in The Netherlands and was issued with the catalogue number 501043.
This set is the complete unedited nine hour version and was released in 2007 by London Trust Cultural Productions.
This edition was packaged by Video Film Express in The Netherlands and was issued with the catalogue number 501043.
'Ellis Island' Vista Films / Telepictures Productions, 1984
An unofficial American DVDR release of the 1984 TV mini-series, 'Ellis Island'.
This 'Made-For-Television' drama co-starred Peter Reigert, Faye Dunnaway, Judi Bowker, Claire Bloom, Joan Greenwood, Milo O'Shea and Kate Burton.
'Ellis Island' was directed by Jerry London, produced by Nick Gillott and was based on the novel of the same name written by Fred Mustard Stewart.
The 'mini-series' of 'Ellis Island' was first broadcast on the CBS Network in November of 1984.
Richard Burton was nominated for an Emmy Award for his performance and Faye Dunnaway received a Golden Globe for 'Best Supporting Actress'.
This production was to be Richard Burton's last television role.
This 'Made-For-Television' drama co-starred Peter Reigert, Faye Dunnaway, Judi Bowker, Claire Bloom, Joan Greenwood, Milo O'Shea and Kate Burton.
'Ellis Island' was directed by Jerry London, produced by Nick Gillott and was based on the novel of the same name written by Fred Mustard Stewart.
The 'mini-series' of 'Ellis Island' was first broadcast on the CBS Network in November of 1984.
Richard Burton was nominated for an Emmy Award for his performance and Faye Dunnaway received a Golden Globe for 'Best Supporting Actress'.
This production was to be Richard Burton's last television role.
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Richard Burton's character portrait taken from the opening credits of the American mini-series, 'Ellis Island'.
'Nineteen Eighty-Four' Virgin Films, 1984
A copy of the official U.K. DVD release of the stunning adaption of George Orwell's futuristic novel, 'Nineteen Eighty-Four'.
Richard Burton was superbly cast in the role of the sinister interrogator O'Brien in a film which was to also feature outstanding performances from John Hurt, Suzanna Hamilton and Cyril Cusack.
'Nineteen Eighty-Four' was directed by Michael Radford, who also wrote the screenplay, adapted from Orwell's original novel and was produced by Simon Perry.
Interior filming took place at Shepperton Studios, Surrey, whilst exterior filming took place at various locations in and around London including Battersea Park, Alexandra Palace, Beckton Gasworks, The Docklands, Muswell Hill and Shoreditch. The countryside which features in Winston's flashbacks during the interrogation sequences was filmed in Devizes, Wiltshire.
The film was released by Virgin Films and distributed by Atlantic Releasing.
This DVD edition was released by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Home Entertainment in 2003 with the catalogue number 1004340.
The cover notes to this 2003 edition read;
'This stunning film adaption journeys straight to the heart of the nightmare portrayed in George Orwell's terrifying classic. John Hurt is perfect as a doomed rebel, and Richard Burton is a model of powerful restraint as a sadistic agent of the ruling party.
Winston Smith (Hurt) endures a squalid existence in totalitarian Oceania under the constant surveillance of Big Brother. But his life takes a horrifying turn when he begins a forbidden love affair and commits the crime of independent thought. sent to the chillingly labelled 'Ministry of Love', he is placed at the mercy of O'Brien (Burton), a coolly treacherous leader determined to control his thoughts, and crush his soul'.
'Nineteen Eighty-Four' was voted the' Best British Film Of The Year' and nominated for a BAFTA Award. The film premiered in the U.K. on the 10th of October, 1984, two months after Richard Burton's death and was dedicated 'With love and admiration' to Burton on the film's closing credits.
Richard Burton was superbly cast in the role of the sinister interrogator O'Brien in a film which was to also feature outstanding performances from John Hurt, Suzanna Hamilton and Cyril Cusack.
'Nineteen Eighty-Four' was directed by Michael Radford, who also wrote the screenplay, adapted from Orwell's original novel and was produced by Simon Perry.
Interior filming took place at Shepperton Studios, Surrey, whilst exterior filming took place at various locations in and around London including Battersea Park, Alexandra Palace, Beckton Gasworks, The Docklands, Muswell Hill and Shoreditch. The countryside which features in Winston's flashbacks during the interrogation sequences was filmed in Devizes, Wiltshire.
The film was released by Virgin Films and distributed by Atlantic Releasing.
This DVD edition was released by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Home Entertainment in 2003 with the catalogue number 1004340.
The cover notes to this 2003 edition read;
'This stunning film adaption journeys straight to the heart of the nightmare portrayed in George Orwell's terrifying classic. John Hurt is perfect as a doomed rebel, and Richard Burton is a model of powerful restraint as a sadistic agent of the ruling party.
Winston Smith (Hurt) endures a squalid existence in totalitarian Oceania under the constant surveillance of Big Brother. But his life takes a horrifying turn when he begins a forbidden love affair and commits the crime of independent thought. sent to the chillingly labelled 'Ministry of Love', he is placed at the mercy of O'Brien (Burton), a coolly treacherous leader determined to control his thoughts, and crush his soul'.
'Nineteen Eighty-Four' was voted the' Best British Film Of The Year' and nominated for a BAFTA Award. The film premiered in the U.K. on the 10th of October, 1984, two months after Richard Burton's death and was dedicated 'With love and admiration' to Burton on the film's closing credits.
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The opening credits from the 1984 Virgin Films production of, 'Nineteen Eighty-Four'. Richard Burton's final film performance.
A Selection of Miscellaneous Richard Burton Official DVDs, DVDRs and Video Tape Releases
'Dylan Thomas' The British Lion Film Corporation, 1961
An unofficial DVDR release of the wonderful, Academy Award winning, short documentary film simply entitled, 'Dylan Thomas' dating from 1961.
Directed by Jack Howells, this is a beautifully haunting and atmospheric short documentary tribute to the Welsh poet, Dylan Thomas.
Filmed in and around around Swansea and Laugharne, this short thirty-minute film, narrated by and starring Richard Burton, captures magnificently the landscapes of Dylan Thomas's youth and attempts to portray what drove him to find inspiration there.
'Dylan Thomas' was originally released by Janus Films and Television West and Wales in 1963, and is beautifully directed and photographed by Jack Howells and moves atmospherically between the brooding skies and seascapes of Dylan Thomas's Swansea to the hectic bohemian literary lifestyle of London during the War. The devastation which was caused by German bombers to Swansea on the three night Swansea Blitz is powerfully captured in images and words.
This beautiful short film was re-named 'A Tribute To Dylan Thomas' for the American market and had it's American premiere in New York on the 6th of May, 1963. The film won an Academy Award at the 35th Academy Awards in 1963 for the 'Best Short Documentary' of that year.
Directed by Jack Howells, this is a beautifully haunting and atmospheric short documentary tribute to the Welsh poet, Dylan Thomas.
Filmed in and around around Swansea and Laugharne, this short thirty-minute film, narrated by and starring Richard Burton, captures magnificently the landscapes of Dylan Thomas's youth and attempts to portray what drove him to find inspiration there.
'Dylan Thomas' was originally released by Janus Films and Television West and Wales in 1963, and is beautifully directed and photographed by Jack Howells and moves atmospherically between the brooding skies and seascapes of Dylan Thomas's Swansea to the hectic bohemian literary lifestyle of London during the War. The devastation which was caused by German bombers to Swansea on the three night Swansea Blitz is powerfully captured in images and words.
This beautiful short film was re-named 'A Tribute To Dylan Thomas' for the American market and had it's American premiere in New York on the 6th of May, 1963. The film won an Academy Award at the 35th Academy Awards in 1963 for the 'Best Short Documentary' of that year.
'Thursday's Children' The British Information Service,1955
An unofficial DVDR of the 1955 short documentary film, 'Thursday's Children'.
Directed by Lindsay Anderson in 1955, this short educational film won an Academy Award as well as a BAFTA nomination.
With a screenplay written by Lindsay Anderson and Guy Brenton and with a charming and sympathetic narration by Richard Burton, this moving documentary focuses on the children and staff of The Royal School For the Deaf based in Margate.
The film was produced by Worldwide Films and distributed by The British Information Service and Morse Films on the 4th of April, 1955.
The cinematography for this short film was by Walter Lassally
An official copy of this documentary can be found on the 'Extras Disc' of the Criterion Collection release of 'If....' which starred Malcolm McDowell and was directed by Lindsay Anderson which was released in 2007, a copy of which is also held in the Richard Burton Museum collection, purely because of the inclusion of this delightful documentary.
Directed by Lindsay Anderson in 1955, this short educational film won an Academy Award as well as a BAFTA nomination.
With a screenplay written by Lindsay Anderson and Guy Brenton and with a charming and sympathetic narration by Richard Burton, this moving documentary focuses on the children and staff of The Royal School For the Deaf based in Margate.
The film was produced by Worldwide Films and distributed by The British Information Service and Morse Films on the 4th of April, 1955.
The cinematography for this short film was by Walter Lassally
An official copy of this documentary can be found on the 'Extras Disc' of the Criterion Collection release of 'If....' which starred Malcolm McDowell and was directed by Lindsay Anderson which was released in 2007, a copy of which is also held in the Richard Burton Museum collection, purely because of the inclusion of this delightful documentary.
The closing credits, thanking Richard Burton for his contribution to the short film, 'Thursday's Children', released in April, 1955.
'This World Of Wales' Television West and Wales,1963
An unofficial DVDR release of the T.W.W. (Television West and Wales) current affairs programme, 'This World Of Wales' which was originally broadcast in March, 1963.
Gwyn Thomas, Welsh writer, broadcaster and dramatist, introduces Richard Burton on a special programme to celebrate the Welsh National Day, March the 1st, St. David's Day, reading a beautifully staged and powerful account of the death of St. David, including his final dying words to his followers.
Gwyn Thomas, Welsh writer, broadcaster and dramatist, introduces Richard Burton on a special programme to celebrate the Welsh National Day, March the 1st, St. David's Day, reading a beautifully staged and powerful account of the death of St. David, including his final dying words to his followers.
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'The Days Of Wilfred Owen' Tree R. & Company,1965
An unofficial DVDR copy of the rare short film, 'The Days Of Wilfred Owen', which was originally broadcast in 1965.
Richard Burton's moving narration, in which he reads extracts from the poetry of Wilfred Owen, performed over many harrowing images and scenes from the trenches of The Great War, was recorded, appropriately, in France and was accompanied by a beautiful musical score, composed by Richard Lewine.
The poems of Wilfred Owen which Richard Burton reads include the titles;
Preface / Send-Off / Arms And The Boy / Sonnet / Strange Meeting / Le Christianisme / Soldier's Dream / The Last Laugh / At A Calvery Near The Ancre / The Sentry / Anthem For Doomed Youth / Apologia Pro Poemate Meo / The Show / Conscious / Greater Love / Asleep / Futility / The Next War and Dulce Et Decorum Est.
Richard Burton's moving narration, in which he reads extracts from the poetry of Wilfred Owen, performed over many harrowing images and scenes from the trenches of The Great War, was recorded, appropriately, in France and was accompanied by a beautiful musical score, composed by Richard Lewine.
The poems of Wilfred Owen which Richard Burton reads include the titles;
Preface / Send-Off / Arms And The Boy / Sonnet / Strange Meeting / Le Christianisme / Soldier's Dream / The Last Laugh / At A Calvery Near The Ancre / The Sentry / Anthem For Doomed Youth / Apologia Pro Poemate Meo / The Show / Conscious / Greater Love / Asleep / Futility / The Next War and Dulce Et Decorum Est.
'Robert Kennedy Remembered' Guggenheim Productions National General Pictures,1968
An unofficial DVDR recording of the 1968 short documentary film entitled, 'Robert Kennedy Remembered', which was produced by Charles Guggenheim.
A poignant and moving short documentary, beautifully narrated by Richard Burton, who was himself a close friend of Robert Kennedy.
A review, written by Guggenheim Productions reads;
Shown on all television networks simultaneously and at the Chicago Democratic National Convention in August of 1968, this moving film tribute to a man who had hoped to win the presidency created a historic moment when it brought the proceedings to a standstill and the crowd, in tears, to its feet. Commissioned by the Kennedy family, the film begins with the funeral train to Washington, D.C. and follows the triumphs and tragedies in the late Senator's life with extraordinary newsreel footage, archival stills, and home movies. The film was produced in only four weeks, two months after the Senator's assassination, in order to meet the Convention deadline. Guggenheim Productions, with the country's resources at its fingertips, worked around the clock to complete this film honouring Robert Kennedy's life and the Democratic Party. "Robert Kennedy Remembered" is a beautiful and poignant film biography which evokes the spirit, quality and commitment Robert Kennedy brought to his life and work.
This incredibly moving short film, beautifully narrated by Richard Burton, was produced in just four weeks and shown on all American TV networks two months after the 1968 assassination.
'Robert Kennedy Remembered' won an Academy Award for 'Best Short Documentary' in 1969.
A poignant and moving short documentary, beautifully narrated by Richard Burton, who was himself a close friend of Robert Kennedy.
A review, written by Guggenheim Productions reads;
Shown on all television networks simultaneously and at the Chicago Democratic National Convention in August of 1968, this moving film tribute to a man who had hoped to win the presidency created a historic moment when it brought the proceedings to a standstill and the crowd, in tears, to its feet. Commissioned by the Kennedy family, the film begins with the funeral train to Washington, D.C. and follows the triumphs and tragedies in the late Senator's life with extraordinary newsreel footage, archival stills, and home movies. The film was produced in only four weeks, two months after the Senator's assassination, in order to meet the Convention deadline. Guggenheim Productions, with the country's resources at its fingertips, worked around the clock to complete this film honouring Robert Kennedy's life and the Democratic Party. "Robert Kennedy Remembered" is a beautiful and poignant film biography which evokes the spirit, quality and commitment Robert Kennedy brought to his life and work.
This incredibly moving short film, beautifully narrated by Richard Burton, was produced in just four weeks and shown on all American TV networks two months after the 1968 assassination.
'Robert Kennedy Remembered' won an Academy Award for 'Best Short Documentary' in 1969.
'Here's Lucy / Lucy Meets The Burtons'
Lucille Ball Productions / Paramount Television,1970
A copy of an unofficial DVDR release of probably the most famous episode of the American hit television show, 'Here's Lucy', which starred Lucille Ball and Gale Gordon.
This episode was directed by Jerry Paris and was written by Bob Carroll Junior and Madelyn Davis.
Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor made a special guest comedy appearance on this, the first episode of season three of, 'Here's Lucy', which was one of the most highly anticipated and watched episodes of this highly successful American series.
'Here's Lucy' ran on CBS from 1968 until 1974.
This episode was first broadcast on September the 14th, 1970.
The main 'Star of the Show' however, was the 1.1 million dollar 'Taylor / Burton' 69.42 carat diamond ring which Richard Burton had bought for Elizabeth Taylor in 1969.
As the story goes, Richard Burton had bought her the diamond ring after he had made a remark about Taylor having 'ugly hands' and as he wrote in his diary the next day, regarding and deeply regretting his comment....."This is going to cost me...Betcha!!".
This episode was directed by Jerry Paris and was written by Bob Carroll Junior and Madelyn Davis.
Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor made a special guest comedy appearance on this, the first episode of season three of, 'Here's Lucy', which was one of the most highly anticipated and watched episodes of this highly successful American series.
'Here's Lucy' ran on CBS from 1968 until 1974.
This episode was first broadcast on September the 14th, 1970.
The main 'Star of the Show' however, was the 1.1 million dollar 'Taylor / Burton' 69.42 carat diamond ring which Richard Burton had bought for Elizabeth Taylor in 1969.
As the story goes, Richard Burton had bought her the diamond ring after he had made a remark about Taylor having 'ugly hands' and as he wrote in his diary the next day, regarding and deeply regretting his comment....."This is going to cost me...Betcha!!".
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The opening titles from the hit American television series, 'Here's Lucy'. This episode featured Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor as guest stars.
'The Tempest' George Schaefer's Showcase Theatre Hallmark Hall Of Fame Productions, 1960
An unofficial DVDR copy of the 'made-for-television' adaption of William Shakespeare's 'The Tempest'.
This version of the play co-starred Maurice Evans, Lee Remick, Roddy McDowell, William Bassett and Ronald Radd and was directed by George Schaefer.
The screenplay for this adaption was written by John Edward Friend.
Aside from his voice, Richard Burton is almost unrecognisable in the role of Caliban, a role he had previously undertaken during the the 1951 Cycle of Shakespearean Plays at The Shakespeare Memorial Theatre at Stratford-Upon-Avon and later in 1953 at The Old Vic.
'The Tempest' was first shown as part of the 'Hallmark Hall Of Fame' season in 1960 and was produced by George Schaefer and Compass Productions.
No bonus material is included on this DVDR disc.
As far as I know, this recording has never been officially released on DVD in the U.K. although at one time it was available on VHS video cassette.
This version of the play co-starred Maurice Evans, Lee Remick, Roddy McDowell, William Bassett and Ronald Radd and was directed by George Schaefer.
The screenplay for this adaption was written by John Edward Friend.
Aside from his voice, Richard Burton is almost unrecognisable in the role of Caliban, a role he had previously undertaken during the the 1951 Cycle of Shakespearean Plays at The Shakespeare Memorial Theatre at Stratford-Upon-Avon and later in 1953 at The Old Vic.
'The Tempest' was first shown as part of the 'Hallmark Hall Of Fame' season in 1960 and was produced by George Schaefer and Compass Productions.
No bonus material is included on this DVDR disc.
As far as I know, this recording has never been officially released on DVD in the U.K. although at one time it was available on VHS video cassette.
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The opening credits taken from the Hallmark Hall of Fame production of William Shakespeare's 'The Tempest'.
'The Gathering Storm' B.B.C / Hallmark Hall Of Fame Productions / The National Broadcasting Company, 1974
An unofficial American DVDR of the 1974 'Made for Television' historical drama, 'The Gathering Storm'.
This biographical drama co-starred Robert Hardy, in the role of Von Ribbentrop, Ian Bannan as Adolf Hitler, Angharad Rees as Sarah Churchill, Robin Bailey as Neville Chamberlain, Ian Ogilvy, Geoffrey Bayldon and Virginia McKenna in the role of Clementine Churchill.
The film was directed by Herbert Wise and produced by Jack Levin and Andrew Osborn from an original screenplay written by Colin Morris which was based on Winston Churchill's memoirs from 1936 through to 1940.
'The Gathering Storm' was produced in association with the B.B.C, N.B.C. and the Hallmark Hall Of Fame and premiered on American television on the 29th of November, 1974. In the U.K. it was re-titled 'A walk With Destiny' just prior to broadcast.
No bonus material features on this unofficial DVDR.
Again, as far as I know, this film has never been officially released on DVD in the UK, although at one time it was also available on VHS video cassette.
This biographical drama co-starred Robert Hardy, in the role of Von Ribbentrop, Ian Bannan as Adolf Hitler, Angharad Rees as Sarah Churchill, Robin Bailey as Neville Chamberlain, Ian Ogilvy, Geoffrey Bayldon and Virginia McKenna in the role of Clementine Churchill.
The film was directed by Herbert Wise and produced by Jack Levin and Andrew Osborn from an original screenplay written by Colin Morris which was based on Winston Churchill's memoirs from 1936 through to 1940.
'The Gathering Storm' was produced in association with the B.B.C, N.B.C. and the Hallmark Hall Of Fame and premiered on American television on the 29th of November, 1974. In the U.K. it was re-titled 'A walk With Destiny' just prior to broadcast.
No bonus material features on this unofficial DVDR.
Again, as far as I know, this film has never been officially released on DVD in the UK, although at one time it was also available on VHS video cassette.
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The opening title sequence frm the B.B.C. / Hallmark Hall of Fame production of the 1974 television drama, 'The Gathering Storm'.
'Mystery Of The Sacred Shroud' VCI Entertainment, 1978
An official U.K. release of the 1978 documentary film of 'Mystery of the Sacred Shroud'.
This fascinating, rarely seen, film explores the mysteries behind the Shroud of Turin, which is believed by millions of Christians to be the burial cloth of Jesus Christ. The film features many interviews with scientists, scholars, religious leaders and theologians that have examined and tested the cloth. The film is narrated by Richard Burton.
According to a contemporary review, 'Mystery of the Sacred Shroud' is;
"...is a reverent affair and treats the subject with respect - it serves not only as a travelogue of the Shroud and its history, but of Turin and the pilgrims who made the journey to see the relic in 1978. The film is also graced by a striking and dramatic narration by Richard Burton, whose voice is so invisibly mended that it might as well be that of the Shroud itself."
The film was written and directed by Harry Mastrogeorge and was produced by Socrates Ballis. The stirring music used throughout the documentary was composed by John Caper Jnr. and William Loose.
The film was originally produced and distributed in 1978 by North American Film Enterprises, this official 2013 release was distributed by VCI Entertainment.
This fascinating, rarely seen, film explores the mysteries behind the Shroud of Turin, which is believed by millions of Christians to be the burial cloth of Jesus Christ. The film features many interviews with scientists, scholars, religious leaders and theologians that have examined and tested the cloth. The film is narrated by Richard Burton.
According to a contemporary review, 'Mystery of the Sacred Shroud' is;
"...is a reverent affair and treats the subject with respect - it serves not only as a travelogue of the Shroud and its history, but of Turin and the pilgrims who made the journey to see the relic in 1978. The film is also graced by a striking and dramatic narration by Richard Burton, whose voice is so invisibly mended that it might as well be that of the Shroud itself."
The film was written and directed by Harry Mastrogeorge and was produced by Socrates Ballis. The stirring music used throughout the documentary was composed by John Caper Jnr. and William Loose.
The film was originally produced and distributed in 1978 by North American Film Enterprises, this official 2013 release was distributed by VCI Entertainment.
'The Dick Cavett Show - Richard Burton Special' Daphne Productions Incorporated / ABC Television / P.B.S. 1980
An unofficial two-disc DVDR set of the complete 'Dick Cavett Richard Burton Interview', dating from 1980.
The show was produced by Robin Breed and was directed by Richard Romagnola and originally distributed by Daphne Productions Incorporated.
The programme was recorded during one sitting and screened on P.B.S. in America over four consecutive nights in August 1980 during Richard Burton's run in the 'Camelot Revival Tour'.
What followed was a superb In-depth interview with Richard Burton at his best, as raconteur and story teller, discussing such topics as his childhood in Wales, his father, marriage and his screen and stage performances.
The show was produced by Robin Breed and was directed by Richard Romagnola and originally distributed by Daphne Productions Incorporated.
The programme was recorded during one sitting and screened on P.B.S. in America over four consecutive nights in August 1980 during Richard Burton's run in the 'Camelot Revival Tour'.
What followed was a superb In-depth interview with Richard Burton at his best, as raconteur and story teller, discussing such topics as his childhood in Wales, his father, marriage and his screen and stage performances.
'The Fall Guy' Twentieth Century Fox Television / Glen A. Larson Productions,1982
An unofficial DVDR of the 1982 episode 'The Reluctant Travelling Companion' from the hit Twentieth Century Fox television series, 'The Fall Guy'.
This episode was first broadcast on the 24th of November, 1982, the sixth episode of season two.
Richard Burton stars as himself in a cameo 'comedy' appearance, alongside Lee Majors and Heather Thomas which was highly reminiscent of his earlier appearance as himself on the 1970 episode of 'Here's Lucy'.
The episode was written by the series creator Glen A .Larson and Robert Earll and was directed by Michael O'Herlihy.
This episode was first broadcast on the 24th of November, 1982, the sixth episode of season two.
Richard Burton stars as himself in a cameo 'comedy' appearance, alongside Lee Majors and Heather Thomas which was highly reminiscent of his earlier appearance as himself on the 1970 episode of 'Here's Lucy'.
The episode was written by the series creator Glen A .Larson and Robert Earll and was directed by Michael O'Herlihy.
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'Under Milk Wood' 2008
An official U.K. DVD copy of the 1992 animated version of Dylan Thomas's 'Under Milk Wood'.
This copy was commissioned by S4C, the Welsh language television channel and released by Brightspark Productions on DVD in 2008.
The narration was taken from the B.B.C. Douglas Cleverdon production of 'Under Milk Wood' with Richard Burton as the full narrator.
The music for this adaption was especially composed by Trevor Herbert and was performed by the Treorchy Male Voice Choir and the Welsh Brass Consort.
The animation was made by Siriol Productions in association with Onward Productions and B.B.C Pebble Mill and was produced by Robert Lyons and directed by Les Orton.
This official DVD release was issued with the catalogue number BSPK579.
This copy was commissioned by S4C, the Welsh language television channel and released by Brightspark Productions on DVD in 2008.
The narration was taken from the B.B.C. Douglas Cleverdon production of 'Under Milk Wood' with Richard Burton as the full narrator.
The music for this adaption was especially composed by Trevor Herbert and was performed by the Treorchy Male Voice Choir and the Welsh Brass Consort.
The animation was made by Siriol Productions in association with Onward Productions and B.B.C Pebble Mill and was produced by Robert Lyons and directed by Les Orton.
This official DVD release was issued with the catalogue number BSPK579.
'Welsh Greats' B.B.C One Wales / Cymru, 2008
An unofficial DVDR of the television documentary 'Welsh Greats', originally screened on March the 31st, 2008 on B.B.C. One Wales.
Richard Burton was, quite rightly, the subject of series one, episode one.
The programme was presented by Daniel Evans and produced and directed by Dafyyd O'Connor.
This thirty minute film contains archive footage and interviews and was filmed, amongst other places, around the village of Pontrhydyfen and The Miners Arms.
Daniel Evans is himself an award winning actor and director who won the Richard Burton Memorial prize in 1990 when he was just seventeen.
Richard Burton was, quite rightly, the subject of series one, episode one.
The programme was presented by Daniel Evans and produced and directed by Dafyyd O'Connor.
This thirty minute film contains archive footage and interviews and was filmed, amongst other places, around the village of Pontrhydyfen and The Miners Arms.
Daniel Evans is himself an award winning actor and director who won the Richard Burton Memorial prize in 1990 when he was just seventeen.
'Kane On Friday' B.B.C 2 Wales / Cymru,1977
An unofficial DVDR recording of an episode from the B.B.C. Wales television series entitled Wales Yesterday.'
The episode concentrates on an interview with Richard Burton by Vincent Kane for his B.B.C. Wales news programme, 'Kane On Friday,' during a nostalgic visit by Richard Burton to the place of his birth, Pontrhydyfen, in 1977.
In an extraordinarily candid interview, held in the Miner's Arms, Richard Burton discussed such topics as his influences, his lifestyle, alcohol, his family, his stage and screen career, relationships, his children and his future plans.
This episode of 'Wales Yesterday' was first broadcast on B.B.C.2 Wales on April the 1st, 2008, and features a contemporary introduction by Vincent Kane.
Vincent Kane is a Welsh broadcaster and writer, best known for his work with B.B.C. Wales, especially current affairs programmes such as Wales Today and Week In Week Out. He has also presented radio shows for the B.B.C. including Good Morning Wales and Meet For Lunch.
Interestingly Vincent Kane co-wrote the screenplay for the 1980 film, 'The Mouse And The Woman' which was based on the short story by Dylan Thomas which first appeared in his 1939 collection 'The Map Of Love'.
Vincent Kane was awarded the O.B.E for services to broadcasting in Wales in 1988.
The episode concentrates on an interview with Richard Burton by Vincent Kane for his B.B.C. Wales news programme, 'Kane On Friday,' during a nostalgic visit by Richard Burton to the place of his birth, Pontrhydyfen, in 1977.
In an extraordinarily candid interview, held in the Miner's Arms, Richard Burton discussed such topics as his influences, his lifestyle, alcohol, his family, his stage and screen career, relationships, his children and his future plans.
This episode of 'Wales Yesterday' was first broadcast on B.B.C.2 Wales on April the 1st, 2008, and features a contemporary introduction by Vincent Kane.
Vincent Kane is a Welsh broadcaster and writer, best known for his work with B.B.C. Wales, especially current affairs programmes such as Wales Today and Week In Week Out. He has also presented radio shows for the B.B.C. including Good Morning Wales and Meet For Lunch.
Interestingly Vincent Kane co-wrote the screenplay for the 1980 film, 'The Mouse And The Woman' which was based on the short story by Dylan Thomas which first appeared in his 1939 collection 'The Map Of Love'.
Vincent Kane was awarded the O.B.E for services to broadcasting in Wales in 1988.
'In From The Cold? - The World Of Richard Burton' 2010
A copy of the official U.K. DVD of Tony Palmer's Award winning documentary from 1988, 'In From the Cold - The World Of Richard Burton'.
''Absolutely fascinating, detailed and insightful''.
Directed and edited by Tony Palmer, the director of the epic 1983 film biopic 'Wagner', 'In From The Cold?' was produced by Ian Martin for Thames Television and was first shown as part of the 'South Bank Show' series on September the 20th, 1988 presented by Burton biographer, Melvyn Bragg.
The film includes vintage interviews from Philip Burton, John Gielgud, Sally Burton, Brook Williams, John Neville and Robert Hardy.
Also featured are interviews with Richard Burton's family including Cecilia James, Verdun Jenkins, David Jenkins, Rhianon Trowell and Kate Burton.
The documentary won a Gold Medal at the New York Film and Television Festival.
This edition was released by Isolde Films and Voiceprint Records in 2010 and was issued with the catalogue number TPDVD12.
''Absolutely fascinating, detailed and insightful''.
Directed and edited by Tony Palmer, the director of the epic 1983 film biopic 'Wagner', 'In From The Cold?' was produced by Ian Martin for Thames Television and was first shown as part of the 'South Bank Show' series on September the 20th, 1988 presented by Burton biographer, Melvyn Bragg.
The film includes vintage interviews from Philip Burton, John Gielgud, Sally Burton, Brook Williams, John Neville and Robert Hardy.
Also featured are interviews with Richard Burton's family including Cecilia James, Verdun Jenkins, David Jenkins, Rhianon Trowell and Kate Burton.
The documentary won a Gold Medal at the New York Film and Television Festival.
This edition was released by Isolde Films and Voiceprint Records in 2010 and was issued with the catalogue number TPDVD12.
'In From The Cold? - The World Of Richard Burton' 2010
(Version Two)
A much later, differently packaged DVD copy of Tony Palmer's superb documentary, 'In From The Cold? - The World of Richard Burton'.
This later edition was released by Boulevard Entertainment Limited with the catalogue number BVED009 in 2013.
'The Times' newspaper was to say of 'In From The Cold?';
'Palmer created a new form of dramatic biography, and this is a magnificent and masterly example'.
The cover notes for this later edition read;
'This is Tony Palmer's fantastic portrait of the life and history of the great actor, Richard Burton.
Featuring interviews with Richard Burton's family members and others including; Sir John Gielgud, Melvyn Bragg, Elizabeth Taylor, Lauren Bacall, Joe Mankiewicz, Mike Nichols, Robert Hardy, Claire Bloom and more.
A complete history of the man himself with extracts from Cleopatra, The Spy Who Came In From The Cold, The Robe, Camelot, Where Eagles Dare, The Wild Geese, Who's Afraid Of Virginia Woolf? and more'.
This later edition was released by Boulevard Entertainment Limited with the catalogue number BVED009 in 2013.
'The Times' newspaper was to say of 'In From The Cold?';
'Palmer created a new form of dramatic biography, and this is a magnificent and masterly example'.
The cover notes for this later edition read;
'This is Tony Palmer's fantastic portrait of the life and history of the great actor, Richard Burton.
Featuring interviews with Richard Burton's family members and others including; Sir John Gielgud, Melvyn Bragg, Elizabeth Taylor, Lauren Bacall, Joe Mankiewicz, Mike Nichols, Robert Hardy, Claire Bloom and more.
A complete history of the man himself with extracts from Cleopatra, The Spy Who Came In From The Cold, The Robe, Camelot, Where Eagles Dare, The Wild Geese, Who's Afraid Of Virginia Woolf? and more'.
'The Richard Burton Diaries' B.B.C Wales / Cymru, 2012
An unofficial DVDR of the television documentary, 'The Richard Burton Diaries', which was first broadcast on B.B.C.1 Wales on Monday the 12th of November, 2012.
This short film was narrated by Welsh actress Mali Harries.
The documentary features an array of archive clips and photographs of Richard Burton and includes interviews with Robert Hardy, Melvyn Bragg and Professor Chris Williams, the editor of 'The Richard Burton Diaries'.
Also included are interviews with Richard Burton's niece Sian Owen and Burton's great nephew Guy Masterson.
'The Richard Burton Diaries' was directed and produced by Marc Edwards, edited by Richard Doel and researched by Sian Lloyd Jones.
The executive producer for the programme was Adrian Davies.
This short film was narrated by Welsh actress Mali Harries.
The documentary features an array of archive clips and photographs of Richard Burton and includes interviews with Robert Hardy, Melvyn Bragg and Professor Chris Williams, the editor of 'The Richard Burton Diaries'.
Also included are interviews with Richard Burton's niece Sian Owen and Burton's great nephew Guy Masterson.
'The Richard Burton Diaries' was directed and produced by Marc Edwards, edited by Richard Doel and researched by Sian Lloyd Jones.
The executive producer for the programme was Adrian Davies.
'Burton And Taylor' 2014
The official DVD release of the B.B.C. television drama, 'Burton And Taylor' which was first broadcast on B.B.C.4 on the 22nd July, 2013.
This highly award nominated film, which included nominations for a Golden Globe, BAFTA, and The Screen Actors Guild, stars Helena Bonham Carter and Dominic West as Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor set during rehearsals for the Broadway production of Noel Cowards' 'Private Lives' during 1983.
'Burton and Taylor' was directed by Richard Laxton and was based on an original screenplay written by William Ivory and was produced by Lachlan MacKinnon and Jessica Pope.
This copy was released on B.B.C. DVD Video with the catalogue number BBCDVD3804.
No bonus features appear on this official DVD release.
The cover notes for this 2014 DVD release read;
'When Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton met on the set of 'Cleopatra' the attraction was immediate. The public were enthralled by their illicit romance, two tempestuous marriages, frequent break-up's and extravagant reunions. They were the original fabulous stars - conspicuous in their consumption of clothes, houses, yachts, diamonds and more damaging, alcohol.
In 1976 Richard and Elizabeth divorced for the second time and it seemed that the romance of the century might truly be over. Then, in 1983 Richard and Elizabeth had one final reunion, on the stage when they spent seven months touring with Noel Coward's 'Private Lives'. During the tour public speculation grew about the possibility of another marriage, but in private, old frictions played out once again.
This is the story of the first celebrity 'It' couple. Funny, glamorous, tempestuous and dripping with diamonds.. This is the last battle of the Burtons.'
This highly award nominated film, which included nominations for a Golden Globe, BAFTA, and The Screen Actors Guild, stars Helena Bonham Carter and Dominic West as Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor set during rehearsals for the Broadway production of Noel Cowards' 'Private Lives' during 1983.
'Burton and Taylor' was directed by Richard Laxton and was based on an original screenplay written by William Ivory and was produced by Lachlan MacKinnon and Jessica Pope.
This copy was released on B.B.C. DVD Video with the catalogue number BBCDVD3804.
No bonus features appear on this official DVD release.
The cover notes for this 2014 DVD release read;
'When Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton met on the set of 'Cleopatra' the attraction was immediate. The public were enthralled by their illicit romance, two tempestuous marriages, frequent break-up's and extravagant reunions. They were the original fabulous stars - conspicuous in their consumption of clothes, houses, yachts, diamonds and more damaging, alcohol.
In 1976 Richard and Elizabeth divorced for the second time and it seemed that the romance of the century might truly be over. Then, in 1983 Richard and Elizabeth had one final reunion, on the stage when they spent seven months touring with Noel Coward's 'Private Lives'. During the tour public speculation grew about the possibility of another marriage, but in private, old frictions played out once again.
This is the story of the first celebrity 'It' couple. Funny, glamorous, tempestuous and dripping with diamonds.. This is the last battle of the Burtons.'
A Selection Of VHS Video Tapes
'Breakthrough' Maverick Pictures International,1979
Released by Entertainment U.K. based in Hayes, Middlesex, this is a 1983 Worldwide Enterprises Incorporated VHS video edition, released under the title of Star Vision, of the 1979 Andrew V. McLagen, World War II drama, 'Breakthrough'.
Appearing alongside Richard Burton in this Anglo-German production were Robert Mitchum, Rod Steiger and Curt Jurgens, who had first appeared with Richard Burton in the 1957 war drama, 'Bitter Victory'.
Set in late May of 1944 during the German retreat of the Eastern Front, Richard Burton was cast in the role of German officer Sergeant Rolf Steiner, the role previously played by James Coburn in the film, 'Cross Of Iron'.
The film was also released under the titles 'Sergeant Steiner' and 'Steiner: Cross Of Iron II', and was the only sequel ever made of a Sam Peckinpah film.
'Breakthrough' was filmed on location at the St. Marx Slaughterhouse, Vienna, Austria.
The screenplay for the film was written by Peter Bernais and Tony Williamson.
The powerful musical score for the film was composed and performed by the German composer and arranger, Peter Thomas.
This video edition of 'Breakthrough' was issued with the catalogue number EUKV 6024.
The synopsis of the film, taken from the cover notes of this VHS video release, read;
'In the summer of 1944, top German officers initiated a plan to assassinate their own Fuhrer, Adolf Hitler. Realising that the cause of the Third Reich was a hopeless one, these conspirators hoped that Hitler's death would allow them to negotiate a ceasefire with the Americans.
Their amazing story is told in this action-packed drama featuring a powerful international cast starring Richard Burton, Curt Jurgens, Robert Mitchum and Rod Steiger.
German Sergeant Steiner is chosen by General Hoffman to contact the Americans and inform them of the July 20th plot to kill Hitler. Steiner and his men set off on their perilous mission of peace across enemy lines and succeed in contacting the American Colonel Rogers. Then, together, Steiner and Rogers must convince the American commanding officer that this plan may bring about the end of World War Two.'
Appearing alongside Richard Burton in this Anglo-German production were Robert Mitchum, Rod Steiger and Curt Jurgens, who had first appeared with Richard Burton in the 1957 war drama, 'Bitter Victory'.
Set in late May of 1944 during the German retreat of the Eastern Front, Richard Burton was cast in the role of German officer Sergeant Rolf Steiner, the role previously played by James Coburn in the film, 'Cross Of Iron'.
The film was also released under the titles 'Sergeant Steiner' and 'Steiner: Cross Of Iron II', and was the only sequel ever made of a Sam Peckinpah film.
'Breakthrough' was filmed on location at the St. Marx Slaughterhouse, Vienna, Austria.
The screenplay for the film was written by Peter Bernais and Tony Williamson.
The powerful musical score for the film was composed and performed by the German composer and arranger, Peter Thomas.
This video edition of 'Breakthrough' was issued with the catalogue number EUKV 6024.
The synopsis of the film, taken from the cover notes of this VHS video release, read;
'In the summer of 1944, top German officers initiated a plan to assassinate their own Fuhrer, Adolf Hitler. Realising that the cause of the Third Reich was a hopeless one, these conspirators hoped that Hitler's death would allow them to negotiate a ceasefire with the Americans.
Their amazing story is told in this action-packed drama featuring a powerful international cast starring Richard Burton, Curt Jurgens, Robert Mitchum and Rod Steiger.
German Sergeant Steiner is chosen by General Hoffman to contact the Americans and inform them of the July 20th plot to kill Hitler. Steiner and his men set off on their perilous mission of peace across enemy lines and succeed in contacting the American Colonel Rogers. Then, together, Steiner and Rogers must convince the American commanding officer that this plan may bring about the end of World War Two.'
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The opening credits to the 1979, World War Two drama, 'Breakthough'. The film co-starred Robert Mitchum and Rod Steiger.
'Wales: Heritage Of A Nation' British Tourist Authority,1987
Issued by The British Tourist Authority and The Welsh Tourist Board, (Bwrdd Croeso Cymru), this video, entitled 'Wales: Heritage Of A Nation' features a superbly haunting, moving and beautiful narration by Richard Burton.
This lovely documentary features footage of the landscapes of Wales; from the mountains and valleys, lakes, dramatic cliffs and architecture of the Roman Forts to 13th century castles and includes the houses in which poet Dylan Thomas once lived.
The narration was originally recorded in 1981 from a script written by Adeline Collier. The film itself was directed by Kevin T. Marsland, with the beautiful cinematography being provided by John Lamborn.
In an extract of text from the cover notes it is noted that;
"Wales: Heritage Of A Nation offers a visually splendid souvenir of past holidays; and many enticing glimpses of the scenery, architecture, people and traditions for those who have yet to explore welcoming Wales.
The late Richard Burton provides the commentary for this video on his native land. Wales: Heritage Of A Nation is a colourful portrait of the ancient Principality which, as Burton says, "Contains, in extravagant profusion out of proportion to it's size, landscapes of startling beauty and diversity."
This VHS edition was released by the British Tourist Authority, based in the Thames Tower, Hammersmith, London and Collier-Marsland Films in 1987. No catalogue number was issued for this VHS Video edition.
This lovely documentary features footage of the landscapes of Wales; from the mountains and valleys, lakes, dramatic cliffs and architecture of the Roman Forts to 13th century castles and includes the houses in which poet Dylan Thomas once lived.
The narration was originally recorded in 1981 from a script written by Adeline Collier. The film itself was directed by Kevin T. Marsland, with the beautiful cinematography being provided by John Lamborn.
In an extract of text from the cover notes it is noted that;
"Wales: Heritage Of A Nation offers a visually splendid souvenir of past holidays; and many enticing glimpses of the scenery, architecture, people and traditions for those who have yet to explore welcoming Wales.
The late Richard Burton provides the commentary for this video on his native land. Wales: Heritage Of A Nation is a colourful portrait of the ancient Principality which, as Burton says, "Contains, in extravagant profusion out of proportion to it's size, landscapes of startling beauty and diversity."
This VHS edition was released by the British Tourist Authority, based in the Thames Tower, Hammersmith, London and Collier-Marsland Films in 1987. No catalogue number was issued for this VHS Video edition.
'Elizabeth R' Chipstead Film Productions, 1983
Originally released in 1983, this specially commissioned VHS video was released to celebrate the Ruby Anniversary of the Accession to the Throne of Her Royal Highness, Queen Elizabeth II.
Based upon the personal memoirs of Elizabeth, Countess of Longford, this video provides a fascinating insight into the life and reign of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II.
This celebratory documentary features a lovely narration by Richard Burton which was recorded a year before his death in 1984.
'Elizabeth R' was distributed by Chipstead Film Productions and this VHS video version was issued with the catalogue number Telvid 20.
This version of the video is a later, differently packaged, Televideo VHS edition which was released in 1991.
An extract of text, taken from the cover notes, reads;
'Elizabeth, Countess of Longford, the internationally acclaimed biographer on whose book this film is based, has known the Queen all her life.
This original film, combined with selected material from the libraries of the world, gives a rare, fascinating insight into the life and reign of a most remarkable woman who is today known, respected and admired throughout the world.'
Based upon the personal memoirs of Elizabeth, Countess of Longford, this video provides a fascinating insight into the life and reign of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II.
This celebratory documentary features a lovely narration by Richard Burton which was recorded a year before his death in 1984.
'Elizabeth R' was distributed by Chipstead Film Productions and this VHS video version was issued with the catalogue number Telvid 20.
This version of the video is a later, differently packaged, Televideo VHS edition which was released in 1991.
An extract of text, taken from the cover notes, reads;
'Elizabeth, Countess of Longford, the internationally acclaimed biographer on whose book this film is based, has known the Queen all her life.
This original film, combined with selected material from the libraries of the world, gives a rare, fascinating insight into the life and reign of a most remarkable woman who is today known, respected and admired throughout the world.'
The complete VHS Video cover for the 1991 Televideo release of the Richard Burton narrated documentary, 'Elizabeth R'.
'Under Milk Wood' 4Front / Universal Video, 1999
A copy of the 4Front / Universal VHS copy of the 1971, Timon Films production of Andrew Sinclair's 'Under Milk Wood'. This edition was released by Universal Pictures (UK) Limited in 1999 and was issued with the catalogue number 059 8743.
Contemporary reviews from the New York Times and The Evening Standard state;
"The film, beautifully photographed and spoken, casts the brooding spell of Thomas's verse in it's reconstruction of the sea-wide village."
"Under Milk Wood got a great popular ovation. It soaks in beauty from it's Fishguard landscape. It's verse is spoken with freshness that the cast might get from their first drink of the day."
Contemporary reviews from the New York Times and The Evening Standard state;
"The film, beautifully photographed and spoken, casts the brooding spell of Thomas's verse in it's reconstruction of the sea-wide village."
"Under Milk Wood got a great popular ovation. It soaks in beauty from it's Fishguard landscape. It's verse is spoken with freshness that the cast might get from their first drink of the day."
This page was updated on the 27th of May, 2021
