Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #177 in DVD
• Released on: 2005-10-03
• Rating: Suitable for 12 years and over
• Format: PAL
• Original language: English
• Number of discs: 3
• Running time: 428 minutes

Synopsis
Talking Heads is a complete collection of Bennett's twelve masterful monologues, performed by the author and some of Britain's leading actors. In these compelling pieces, Bennett displays the wry observation, knowing irony and tender understatement that have ensured his rightful place at the forefront of contemporary writing. The likes of Thora Hird, Patricia Routledge, Maggie Smith and Julie Walters deliver a masterclass in the art of character acting. Also includes Bennett reading his Telling Tales piece.

Customer Reviews

Alan Bennett & Thora Hird - the closest thing to perfection
With the full collection of Alan Bennett's Talking Heads available on this DVD set you really get to appreciate what a talented wordsmith he truly his. His stories captivate and ensnare you, then leave you begging for more. However, for me personally, the real gem and the closest thing to perfection is the final story with Thora Hird (Waiting for the telegram). Thora's beautifully acted piece and her story of her young man who went to war "he was so beautiful stood there in the firelight" reduced me to tears. Wonderful from start to finish.

Slices of Life
Once again a tour de force from the master playwright. Alan takes us from the depths of despair to peals of laughter within the same story. He has an uncanny knack for phrasing and making the most of everyday utterances. The stories are bleaker than in the first series but each one is a masterpiece.

Excellent
I bought this for my mum, and I've had the opportunity to hear some of the monologues while she watched it. Though I may not be well-versed in which actors were responsible, the letter-writing lady and old Doris complaining about her home help were amusing, involving and moving at the same time. The scripts were delivered with grace, subtlety and a complex understanding of the characters behind them. Encore.