| ||||||||
*Compared to average sales price on eBay.co.uk during the last 15 days | ||||||||
The History Boys (DVD)
|
Title: The History Boys
Leading Role: Adrian Scarborough,Clive Merrison,Frances De La Tour,James Corden,Richard Griffiths,Sacha Dhawan,Stephen Campbell Moore
Director: Nicholas Hytner
EAN: 5039036029759
Rating: UK:15
Product ID: EPID59540000
Description: A group of history pupils at a boys’ grammar school in Sheffield pursue a place at Oxford or Cambridge, where they are subjected to contrasting styles of teaching.
Portions of this page Copyright 1948-2009 Muze Inc. and Muze Europe Ltd. 
All rights reserved.
All rights reserved.
Buy this item
Top Reviews
The History Boys (DVD)
) 
7 of 7 people found this review helpful.
As a play, Alan Bennett’s The History Boys scored a smash hit in the West End and on Broadway. And it’s as a play that it’s been filmed – in fact altogether too much so. As we’re repeatedly reminded in the stagestruck extras, the film was made immediately after its run at the National, using the unchanged stage cast, director and – of course – writer. Fine, in that everybody was thoroughly into their roles. Not so fine, in that what we get for the most part is big, brash theatrical performances. People give long, frighteningly articulate speeches pitched to the back of the stalls. Tell, not show, is the order of the day.
The setting is a Yorkshire grammar school, early ’80s. Eight of the brightest six-formers are being crammed for Oxbridge. Fearing that traditionalist history teacher Mrs Linnott (Frances de la Tour) and high-camp English teacher Hector (Richard Griffiths) aren’t pushing the lads hard enough, the ultra-ambitious Head (Clive Merrison) brings in bright, intense young supply teacher Mr Irwin (Stephen Campbell Moore). Cue personality clashes and much philosophical chat about the true aims of education.
This being Bennett, there are some terrific lines and scenes with that archetypal, Bennettesque mix of humour and poignancy. But the sentimental wash that was held at bay finally overwhelms the movie, rendering its social insights innocuous. “A perfect gift for Mother’s Day” suggests the PR handout. Hard to argue with that one.
The setting is a Yorkshire grammar school, early ’80s. Eight of the brightest six-formers are being crammed for Oxbridge. Fearing that traditionalist history teacher Mrs Linnott (Frances de la Tour) and high-camp English teacher Hector (Richard Griffiths) aren’t pushing the lads hard enough, the ultra-ambitious Head (Clive Merrison) brings in bright, intense young supply teacher Mr Irwin (Stephen Campbell Moore). Cue personality clashes and much philosophical chat about the true aims of education.
This being Bennett, there are some terrific lines and scenes with that archetypal, Bennettesque mix of humour and poignancy. But the sentimental wash that was held at bay finally overwhelms the movie, rendering its social insights innocuous. “A perfect gift for Mother’s Day” suggests the PR handout. Hard to argue with that one.
Review ID: 10000000003517207
Was this review helpful? Report this review
Thank you for voting. If your vote meets our Sort by:
Reviews
The History BoysReview created: 17/11/09
by:
) 1 of 1 people found this review helpful.
This is an Alan Bennett play made into an highly entertaining and funny insight
into a group of teenage pupils at a Northern grammar school post their A level
results - they are destined to be Oxbridge applicants . The story looks at the
trials and tribulations of teenage boys , girls ; sex ; sexuality and the odd
motivational problems that these all cause .
The selection of the actors/actresses is superb and only adds to the feasability of the story being entirely believable !
The story has a surprise every few minutes which only adds to the quality of the whole and reinforces Bennett as a true master.
The inclusion of Richard Griffiths and Frances de la Tour is a contrast to a
handful of young actors who seem very accomplished for their youthful years.
A most worthwhile DVD and a must for a parent of any teenage children who are
on their educational journey to University . A most enjoyable DVD for those who
do not - A MUST SEE !
into a group of teenage pupils at a Northern grammar school post their A level
results - they are destined to be Oxbridge applicants . The story looks at the
trials and tribulations of teenage boys , girls ; sex ; sexuality and the odd
motivational problems that these all cause .
The selection of the actors/actresses is superb and only adds to the feasability of the story being entirely believable !
The story has a surprise every few minutes which only adds to the quality of the whole and reinforces Bennett as a true master.
The inclusion of Richard Griffiths and Frances de la Tour is a contrast to a
handful of young actors who seem very accomplished for their youthful years.
A most worthwhile DVD and a must for a parent of any teenage children who are
on their educational journey to University . A most enjoyable DVD for those who
do not - A MUST SEE !
Review ID: 10000000014262746
Was this review helpful? Report this review
the history boys dvdReview created: 03/06/09
by:
1 of 1 people found this review helpful.
this is alan bennett at his best as alway characters we have all come across
at school and college it's a pity things have moved on since then
at school and college it's a pity things have moved on since then
Review ID: 10000000012229007
Was this review helpful? Report this review
History BoysReview created: 26/11/08
by:
1 of 1 people found this review helpful.
Decided to try this film as I admire the other work of several of the lead players. I enjoyed the film, however, not sure how likely it would be that so many boys from one northern school would try out and be accepted for Oxford or Csmbridge in one year. Acting did not disappoint.
Review ID: 10000000009514996
Was this review helpful? Report this review
immensely enjoyableReview created: 02/09/08
by:
) 1 of 1 people found this review helpful.
'The History Boys'
A thrillingly smart and immensely enjoyable screen version of Alan Bennett's celebrated play.
Stay with it, It just keeps getting better as the film progresses.
Very well acted by some of the UK best seasoned actors and I would guess some of the UK's future best seasoned actors.
The UK doesn't do much right, but It knows how to make a good film
A thrillingly smart and immensely enjoyable screen version of Alan Bennett's celebrated play.
Stay with it, It just keeps getting better as the film progresses.
Very well acted by some of the UK best seasoned actors and I would guess some of the UK's future best seasoned actors.
The UK doesn't do much right, but It knows how to make a good film
Review ID: 10000000008520304
Was this review helpful? Report this review
The History BoysReview created: 22/08/08
by:
) 1 of 1 people found this review helpful.
I absolutely loved this film. A brilliant story and a fabulous cast. I would recomend this dvd to anyone. It inspired me to read the original play by Allan Bennett which was fab, the film very true to the book.
Review ID: 10000000008421522
Was this review helpful? Report this review
The History BoysReview created: 09/05/08
by:
1 of 1 people found this review helpful.
Abit wierd in stages and extremley gay :S but has some goods points or view in it and morales. Needs all your attention at all times to understand parts but overall a good film that gets you thinking.
Review ID: 10000000007086370
Was this review helpful? Report this review
CLASSIC MOVIEReview created: 04/04/08
by:
) 1 of 1 people found this review helpful.
This is a great classic movie of a stage play which I love and wanted to share with friends in Canada where it might enjoy very limited art house cinema distribution. so it was bought as a birthday present and enormously enjoyed.
Absolutely nothing to dislike about this purchase.
Absolutely nothing to dislike about this purchase.
Review ID: 10000000006482606
Was this review helpful? Report this review
greatReview created: 12/03/08
by:
1 of 1 people found this review helpful.
The History Boys is a first class classic british 70's satire has transferred excellent to the big and small screen fantastic film play everything.
Review ID: 10000000006161054
Was this review helpful? Report this review
+++++ wow +++++1 of 1 people found this review helpful.
saw at cin and loved it, just seen it in london performed in the west end and got it for a bargin! its a brill & moving film!!
Review ID: 10000000005851754
Was this review helpful? Report this review
Why I liked the History BoysReview created: 25/02/08
by:
1 of 1 people found this review helpful.
As might be expected from Alan Bennett, the script is witty and at times poignant.
The soundtrack includes lots of popular songs from the 1960s.
The extras include an interview with Alan Bennett, explaining how the film developed from the stage play. His observations make a second viewing very worthwhile, as does the humour.
The soundtrack includes lots of popular songs from the 1960s.
The extras include an interview with Alan Bennett, explaining how the film developed from the stage play. His observations make a second viewing very worthwhile, as does the humour.
Review ID: 10000000005798732
Was this review helpful? Report this review
Heart-warming and enjoyableReview created: 18/02/08
by:
1 of 1 people found this review helpful.
If you like Alan Bennett or young lads this may well be the film for you. Both touching and very funny and a good insight into the reality of grammar school education and not what the bitter and twisted among us would have you believe.
Easy-going pace which is eminently watchable throughout. Personally, I could watch things like this forever. Also, it's very 'British' and has a realistic approach to both race and sexuality and as you can probably guess, has a low key gay theme running throughout.
Easy-going pace which is eminently watchable throughout. Personally, I could watch things like this forever. Also, it's very 'British' and has a realistic approach to both race and sexuality and as you can probably guess, has a low key gay theme running throughout.
Review ID: 10000000005706107
Was this review helpful? Report this review
The History BoysReview created: 01/09/07
by:
xx-xvickix-xx ( 6 )
1 of 1 people found this review helpful.
i love the film, the jokes in it are really funny and you really become attchted to all the characters.
Review ID: 10000000004259860
Was this review helpful? Report this review
all done in the best possible taste - thanks0 of 1 people found this review helpful.
this new e-bore review sytem is a waste of time - are we bothered this much?
why the bloody heck have I then got to put 100 meaninless words to a meaningless review for guy that just mailed me a dvd, has the world gone crazy, I'm a writer but this sort of crap is driving the world to drink.
Have you heard the one about the old fella who wouldn't buy green bananas because he didn't think he'd last that long? No, neither had I. Is my word total past 100 yet? (if nothing else appears it probably is - yawn.....)
why the bloody heck have I then got to put 100 meaninless words to a meaningless review for guy that just mailed me a dvd, has the world gone crazy, I'm a writer but this sort of crap is driving the world to drink.
Have you heard the one about the old fella who wouldn't buy green bananas because he didn't think he'd last that long? No, neither had I. Is my word total past 100 yet? (if nothing else appears it probably is - yawn.....)
Review ID: 10000000007401094
Was this review helpful? Report this review
A true masterpieceOne of the best films I've seen in a long time. The continual wit and charm from the pupils along with the teachers' enthusiasm creates the perfect combination for success in the attempt to gain entry to Cambridge. Very much worth a watch, no matter what your age. It was that good I went to see it as a stage production in London. True British education system portrayed through some brilliant actors and a wonderfully written plot. 5 out of 5.
Review ID: 10000000005651725
Was this review helpful? Report this review
The History Boys (DVD)Review created: 09/02/08
by:
I admit I would find interest and amusement in anything written by Alan Bennett - including the notes he leaves for the milkman probably! Having said that and admitted my bias, I have to say that this DVD film version of the highly successful stage play is wonderful. Having seen the play in the West End I had to be able to see it again and again and this is the only affordable way. But you don't need to have seen the play; you don't even need to be a fan of Bennett's work , you just need a sense of humour and to have been to school!
Enjoy.
Enjoy.
Review ID: 10000000005543180
Was this review helpful? Report this review
The History Boys DVDI was curious about this production as a friend went to see the stage show and I am a fan of Alan Bennett's other work. I was delighted to find that the film I ordered was as good as I hoped and perhaps better! Funny; alternately sad and provocative, I was captivated and allured. It's easy to watch over and over as there are so many layers to Bennett's work.
I recommend if you have enjoyed other work of his or are interested to see how a down-to-earth grammar school in Sheffield goes about sending an entire class of somewhat unlikely boys to Oxford University. I was gripped from the outset and highly recommend this film to anyone who wants more than fast cars and guns for entertainment and a slice of cultured comedy. You will laugh out loud guaranteed!
I recommend if you have enjoyed other work of his or are interested to see how a down-to-earth grammar school in Sheffield goes about sending an entire class of somewhat unlikely boys to Oxford University. I was gripped from the outset and highly recommend this film to anyone who wants more than fast cars and guns for entertainment and a slice of cultured comedy. You will laugh out loud guaranteed!
Review ID: 10000000005384106
Was this review helpful? Report this review
Bennetts best yetReview created: 29/01/08
by:
I love the work of Alan Bennett. Clever humane and understated. This however is clever, humane and loud as a brass band. In his view, the education system is going down the pan fast.
A terrific ensemble cast of veteran thespians and fresh faced new talent make this dvd a fantastic treat.
ENJOY
A terrific ensemble cast of veteran thespians and fresh faced new talent make this dvd a fantastic treat.
ENJOY
Review ID: 10000000005268410
Was this review helpful? Report this review
Page 1 of 1
Ready to share your opinion with others? Write a Review
About eBay | Announcements | Safety Centre | Partner Centre | VeRO: Protecting Intellectual Property | Policies | Feedback Forum | Site Map | Help | |
Copyright © 1995-2009 eBay Inc. All Rights Reserved. Designated trademarks and brands are the property of their respective owners. Use of this Web site constitutes acceptance of the eBay User Agreement and Privacy Policy.
| |
