The DVD Collection - People And Places

*OZWALD BOATENG A MAN'S STORY

Tailor to Hollywood’s A-list, and a superstar in his own right, Ozwald Boateng is a dynamic force of energy, passion and colour.

1998: already celebrated as one of the most talented menswear designers in the world, Ozwald Boateng is about to go bankrupt and divorce his first wife. Through luck and circumstance director Varon Bonicos is able to switch on a camera. It continues to roll for the next twelve years. What emerges is a groundbreaking film that takes us on an exhilarating behind-the-scenes ride into the world of high fashion with one of one of the most influential menswear designers of his generation.  Ending in 2010 when Boateng closes London Fashion Week with the biggest menswear show in history, Bonicos is able to get behind the headlines and chart Boateng’s singular dream to succeed. Instinctive, flawed and generous, A Man’s Story goes to the very heart of what Boateng has spent an entire career trying to distil: “what it is to be a man.”

Special Features:

- Behind the scenes: a 30min documentary charting the creation and execution of the biggest men’s fashion show in history

- Theatrical Trailer

2012    Run Time: 98 minutes

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THE TOWER:  A TALE OF TWO CITIES

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THE LEGEND OF PANCHO BARNES AND THE HAPPY BOTTOM RIDING CLUB

Florence "Pancho" Barnes was one of the most important women in 20th Century aviation. A tough and fearless aviatrix, Pancho was a rival of Amelia Earhart's who made a name for herself as Hollywood's first female stunt pilot. Just before WWII she opened a ranch near Edwards Air Force Base that became a famous -- some would say notorious -- hangout for test pilots and movie stars. Known as the "Happy Bottom Riding Club".

1 Hour

AMERICAN EXPERIENCE - TRIANGLE FIRE

The Triangle Fire chronicles the fire that tore through the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory in New York City killing one hundred and forty-eight young women and forever changed the relationship between labor and industry in the United States.

55 mins

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NIAGARA FALLS 

NIAGARA FALLS is more than the celebration of a natural wonder: it's a study of human achievement and human folly on an epic scale. It is a tale of exploitation and preservation and the changing nature of love in America - of the way Man has related to Nature over centuries. With spectacular high definition videography, the camera takes us to the edge of the falls via helicopter and boat; we see newsreel footage, actual weddings and much more.   

PBS DOCUMENTARY   1 HOUR

CUSTER'S LAST STAND - AMERICAN EXPERIENCE

Custer's Last Stand, a two-hour biography of one of the most celebrated and controversial icons of 19th century America, paints a penetrating psychological portrait of Custer's charismatic, narcissistic personality. From Custer's heroic exploits on the battlefields of the Civil War, to his often brutal subjugation of the Indians of the southern plains, to his highly publicized expedition into the Black Hills, Custer was a man in a hurry, desperately struggling to maintain the fame that had come to define him.

1 HR 56 MINS  2012

GIVE ME THE BANJO  

This documentary looks at the history of the banjo from its arrival in the U.S. in the early 1600s to the present day, and it explores the roots of American music. Performances and commentary from Pete Seeger, Earl Scruggs, Bela Fleck and the Carolina Chocolate Drops. Steve Martin narrates.

PBS 90 mins

THE STORM THAT SWEPT MEXICO 2010 

The Storm That Swept Mexico tells the gripping story of the Mexican Revolution of 1910, the first major political and social revolution of the 20th century. The revolution not only changed the course of Mexican history, transforming economic and political power within the nation, but also profoundly impacted the relationships between Mexico, the U.S. and the rest of the world.

PBS     2010  2 hours

PROHIBITION

PROHIBITION is a three-part, five-and-a-half-hour documentary film series directed by Ken Burns and Lynn Novick that tells the story of the rise, rule, and fall of the Eighteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution and the entire era it encompassed.  Prohibition was intended to improve, even to ennoble, the lives of all Americans, to protect individuals, families, and society at large from the devastating effects of alcohol abuse. But the enshrining of a faith-driven moral code in the Constitution paradoxically caused millions of Americans to rethink their definition of morality.

3 DISCS:

DISC 1: EPISODE 1 - A NATION OF DRUNKARDS

DISC 2: EPISODE 2 - A NATION OF SCOFFLAWS

DISC 3: EPISODE 3 - A NATION OF HYPOCRITES 

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*BILLY CONNOLLY'S ROUTE 66

Billy Connolly fulfils a lifelong dream of travelling the world's most famous highway – Route 66.
The 2488 mile long road from Chicago to Santa Monica is the embodiment of the American dream and, set to a soundtrack of some of the best American music of the 20th century, Billy will be taking in everything from the skyscrapers of Chicago and St Louis to the Wild West badlands of Oklahoma and Texas.
Astride his Boom motor-trike, Billy will see the Grand Canyon, the deserts of New Mexico and Arizona, the beaches of the Pacific and the excesses of LA. Along the way he'll meet the disciples of Route 66, from seasoned “roadies” to first-timers living the dream. He'll also learn about key figures and events that have shaped the richly diverse culture and character of the US past and present.
Billy says: "How many other roads do you know that people sing about? It's just one of those places you long to see. Ever since I was a wee boy in Glasgow I have fantasised about getting my kicks on Route 66. "This will be a tale in tarmac of presidents and paupers, cowboys and Indians, diners and drive-thrus, framed in a landscape from 100 movies with a soundtrack of the greatest music in the world – rock n roll. We're going to have lots of fun, meet lots of people and see lots of things." 

2011   FOUR EPISODES     3 DISC SET  (INCLUDES DVD EXTRA - BILLY'S VIDEO DIARY)

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THE WONDERFUL WIZARD OF OZ: THE TRUE STORY 

This iconic American story was written in 1900 by L Frank Baum, a Chicago businessman, journalist, chicken breeder, actor, boutique owner, Hollywood movie director and lifelong fan of all things innovative and technological. His life spanned an era of remarkable invention and achievement in America and many of these developments helped to fuel this great storyteller's imagination. His ambition was to create the first genuine American fairytale and the story continues to fascinate, inspire and engage millions of fans of all ages from all over the world. This documentary explores how The Wonderful Wizard of Oz has come to symbolise the American Dream and includes previously unseen footage from the Baum family archives, still photographs and clips from the early Oz films, as well as interviews with family members, literary experts and American historians as it tells the story of one man's life in parallel to the development of modern America. 

BBC FOUR 2011    60 MINUTES     DIGITAL TV

 

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THE ROYAL WEDDING 2011 

Prince William and Kate Middleton. April 29^th 2011 at Westminster Abbey.

The complete ceremony and balcony kiss. 

2 DISCS Run time approx 4 hours.  DIGITAL TV 

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IF WALLS COULD TALK: A HISTORY OF THE HOME 

Lucy Worsley, chief curator of the historic royal palaces, takes us through 800 years of domestic history by exploring the British home through four rooms, meeting experts and historians on the way

DISC 1: THE LIVING ROOM, THE BATHROOM

DISC 2: THE BEDROOM, THE KITCHEN

 

2011 4 HOURS 2 Discs

 

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BBC STORYVILLE:   AMERICAN IDOL - RONALD REAGAN 

To mark the centenary of the birth of one of the most iconic figures in recent American politics, a documentary which examines the enigmatic career of screen star and two-term US president Ronald Reagan.

He has been heralded as one of the architects of the modern world and since his death many Americans have been working to cement his legacy, but some critics argue that the aftershocks of Reaganomics continue to crumble economies the world over and that the hubris of Reagan's foreign policy continues to propel America into a cycle of overseas ventures. To such critics Reagan is an ominous figure who did more harm than good.

But who was Ronald Reagan, and how did he come to shape world politics in the way he did? Featuring in-depth interviews with those who worked with him and knew him best, this film provides a definitive and penetrating look at Reaganism, whose grip on the public mind has been rekindled by recent events in Republican politics.

BBC2    2011    97 MINS  DIGITAL TV  

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THE GOLDEN AGE OF COACH TRAVEL 

Documentary which takes a glorious journey back to the 1950s, when the coach was king. From its early origins in the charabanc, the coach had always been the people's form of transport. Cheaper and more flexible than the train, it allowed those who had travelled little further than their own villages and towns a first heady taste of exploration and freedom. It was a safe capsule on wheels from which to venture out into a wider world. 

BBC 1 HOUR DIGITAL TV 

THE MODERN AGE OF COACH TRAVEL 

Documentary which brings the story of the coach up to date, as it explores the most recent phase of Britain's love affair with group travel on four wheels - from school trips and football awaydays to touring with bands and 'magic bus' overland treks to India. 

BBC 1 HOUR DIGITAL TV 

BOTH ON ONE DISC

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THE REAL KING'S SPEECH

The true story of King George VI's struggle to overcome his stammer, and the parts played in his battle with his disability by his speech therapist, brother, father and wife.

Channel 4 2011     1 Hour DIGITAL TV 

BBC REPUTATIONS - GEORGE VI: THE RELUCTANT KING 

Documentary about Albert Frederick Arthur George, known to his family as Bertie, who came to the throne when his brother Edward VIII abdicated. Thrust into the spotlight, this shy man overcame his fears of public speaking to become one of the country's best-loved monarchs.

BBC 1999       1 HOUR DIGITAL TV 

BOTH ON SAME DISC

  

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AMERICAN EXPERIENCE - WYATT EARP 

He has been portrayed in countless movies and television shows by some of Hollywood's greatest actors, including Henry Fonda, Jimmy Stewart and more recently, Kevin Costner, but these popular fictions belie the complexities and flaws of a man whose life is a lens on politics, justice and economic opportunity in the American frontier.

PBS 56 MINS    2010 DIGITAL TV 

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AMERICAN EXPERIENCE - AMELIA EARHART 

The first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic, Earhart disappeared in 1937 while she was attempting to circumnavigate the world by airplane. Narrated by Kathy Bates. 

PBS 56 MINS   2010 DIGITAL TV

 

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INVENTING LA: THE CHANDLERS AND THEIR TIMES

Inventing LA: The Chandlers and Their Times, a documentary by Emmy-winning filmmaker Peter Jones, tells the story of the Los Angeles Times and the city’s most powerful family. For four generations, the Chandlers wielded unique influence through their newspaper. In their pursuit of personal agendas and civic ideals, they built the city of the future, but also exposed the dark side of the American dream. 

PBS 2009 1 HR 55 MINS DIGITAL TV

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AMERICAN EXPERIENCE: THE CRASH OF 1929

In 1929 there were few critics of the stock market; it seemed to rise without limits. In fact, presidents and economists alike confidently predicted that America would soon enter a "New Era" when everyone could be rich. But when reality finally struck, the consequences of such unbound optimism shocked the world. 

2009 55 MINS DIGITAL TV

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THE MAKING OF THE IRON LADY

Using unseen archive footage, new filming and interviews with those closest to the action, Michael Cockerell tells the inside story of the 20 years that took Margaret Thatcher from Commons new girl to her election in 1979 as the first ever female British prime minister. While her decade inside Number 10 has been well covered, the story of how she rose to the top has remained untold, and the film shows how she fought the male chauvinism of Westminster, particularly in her own party. 

BBC  2010  1 HOUR DIGITAL TV

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LIZ SMITH'S SUMMER CRUISE   

Award-winning 87-year-old actress Liz Smith does the one thing she has never managed to achieve in her life - go on a proper holiday. Liz, known and loved by millions as Nana in The Royle Family and Leticia in The Vicar of Dibley, finally fulfils her modest ambition to join a group of like-minded individuals on a summer cruise across the Adriatic to Venice.  The film gives an intimate and personal insight into Liz's life, both past and present, from the moment she plans her holiday, packs her bags and bids farewell to her friends in the security of her sheltered accommodation.  Was the holiday everything she dreamed of? 

BBC FOUR 2009 1 HOUR   DIGITAL TV

 

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*RIDING ROUTE 66

Route 66 is one of the most iconic and legendary roads in the world. The highway winds across America from Chicago to Los Angeles crossing eight states and three time zones on its 2,448-mile passage to the sunshine state. The road reflects the true dichotomy of American culture from Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma and Texas on to New Mexico, Arizona and finally to Los Angeles and California.  In this seven part series Henry Cole embarks on a once in a lifetime journey along Route 66. Arriving in Chicago Henry buys a Harley Davidson and sets off on what will prove to be both an inspirational, cathartic and historical journey discovering the real heartland of America revealing its diverse culture, tourist attractions and heritage. 

2-Disc remastered edition   240 MINUTES 

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THE RED LION  

Award-winning film-maker Sue Bourne sets off on a 3,000-mile journey to some of the country's 600 Red Lions - the most common pub name - to discover why pub culture is so central to British society. She wants to find out why we are still a nation of drinkers despite Government warnings about the dangers of drinking. And with seven pubs a days closing amidst recession and the smoking ban, she asks if there is a future for our pubs. From tipsy grannies to teetotal quiz night fanatics, and lonely souls to boozing netball players, the documentary reveals touching, funny, sad, gentle and unusual - but always fascinating - people and stories. 

CHANNEL 4 2009 1 HOUR   DIGITAL TV

 

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QE2  THE FINAL VOYAGE 

Over 40 years after her launch, BBC's Timewatch boards the most iconic ocean liner in the world as she embarks on her final voyage and glides gracefully towards retirement. In this warm, celebratory film, Timewatch bids a fond farewell to the QE2 and - with exclusive access to the final voyage - looks back over four glittering decades on the high seas. 

2009      1 HOUR DIGITAL TV 

 

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RICK STEIN:  MEMOIRS OF A SEAFOOD CHEF 

The amiable foodie, famed for his endless enthusiasm and hit TV shows, including Taste Of The Sea, French Odyssey and Mediterranean Escapes, reflects on a 30-year career as a chef.  This programme reveals how it all began and hears from friends and colleagues who share their own memories of Stein.
We also discover some of his favourite dishes and the influences that have helped shape his illustrious career.

BBC2  2009  APPROX 90 MINUTES  DIGITAL TV 

 

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KEITH MEETS KEITH 

Documentary about the funny, thought-provoking and moving encounter between the man who 'deconstructed television' years before the phrase became fashionable among the media-savvy, and a protégé who has continued that tradition. Actor and documentary-maker Keith Allen was hugely influenced by TV chef Keith Floyd's anarchic presentational style, and is determined to track down his long-time hero. He finally locates him in rural France. Both known for their wild lifestyles, it's unsurprising that the two Keiths immediately hit it off. The result is a compelling profile of Floyd's life, as well as his musings on the current TV chefs, the mendacity of television, the state of modern Britain, and the human condition. The two men are seldom at a loss for words until a surprise appearance by Floyd's daughter, whom he hasn't seen for 10 years.

FIRST BROADCAST: 10PM Mon 14 September 2009

Sadly, Keith Floyd passed away on Monday 14 September, 2009.

2009  49 MINUTES (ADS REMOVED) DIGITAL TV

 

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PIERS MORGAN ON... SANDBANKS 

Here's a question for you: where is the fourth most expensive place to live on the planet? Barbados perhaps? Or Beverly Hills? Nope, they don't even come close. It's actually a tiny little sand dune on the Dorset coast UK called Sandbanks. But this is no ordinary dune. On it, and around it, lie stunning golden sands, clear turquoise ocean water, luxury yachts, vintage champagne spilling out of every well-heeled resident's mouth, and houses that are currently going for an absurd £10million apiece. Piers Morgan presents this three-part documentary series exploring the extraordinary phenomenon that is Sandbanks. 

ITV1   2008 DIGITAL TV 

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*MARK TWAIN, A Film Directed by Ken Burns 

3 DISC SET - The Definitive Story of America's Most Beloved Author.

Nearly three years in the making and drawing from 63 hours of material, thousands of archival photographs and nearly 20 interviews with top writers and scholars, Mark Twain is the story of Twain’s extraordinary life-full of rollicking adventure, stupendous success and crushing defeat, hilarious comedy and almost unbearable tragedy. Told primarily through the words of Twain himself, viewers of all ages will be personally introduced to this compelling yet contradictory genius.  DISCS ARE: PART1, PART 2 AND DVD EXTRAS 

2001   Run Time: 225 minutes 

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AMERICAN EXPERIENCE   The Great Transatlantic Cable 

This program tells the story behind the laying of the transatlantic cable. The physical challenges to laying the cable were enormous. The project would require the production of a 2,000 mile long cable that would have to be laid three miles beneath the Atlantic. Cyrus Field, an energetic young New Yorker wasn't deterred, and since its completion in 1866, nothing has broken his communications link with Europe-not storms, earthquakes or war. 

2005 Run Time: Approx 1 hour

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THE MYSTERY OF EDGAR ALLAN POE

 

A&E BIOGRAPHY

1994   50 MINS  

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AMERICAN EXPERIENCE: SISTER AIMEE 

Sister Aimee tells the dramatic life story of Aimee Semple McPherson, the controversial, charismatic, wildly popular evangelist who was instrumental in bringing conservative Protestantism into mainstream culture and American politics.

PBS 2007 1 hour  

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CAR CRASH - THE DELOREAN STORY 

This in-depth BBC documentary covers the DeLorean story with interviews from ex-factory and DeLorean Motor Company workers. Contains some rare footage.

BBC4   2004   1 HOUR  DIGITAL TV

 

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*OFF THE MENU: THE LAST DAYS OF CHASEN'S 

It has been said that when you are sick, nobody calls you, but when you die, everyone wants to come to the funeral. So it was with Chasen's, the legendary Hollywood restaurant that opened its doors in 1936. In its heyday, every night was like a premiere and every table was filled with stars. In more recent years, however, Chasen's was shunned by contemporary Hollywood who preferred trendier and hipper eateries. Finally, after more than six decades, it was sold to a strip-mall developer and, in April 1995, was slated to close. Suddenly, Chasen's was the hottest reservation in town.

1997 Run time: 90 minutes

 
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AMERICAN MASTERS: GOOD OL' CHARLES SCHULZ 

From Charlie Brown to the Little Red-Haired Girl, Documentary Explores the Universal Appeal of the Artist Who Redefined the Comic Strip; Life and Work Intertwine in Cartoons, Home Movies, Original Animations and Interviews With Family Members, Real-Life Inspirations for Cartoon Characters and Cartoonists Jules Feiffer and Lynn Johnston.

 

PBS      2007   90 MINUTES APPROX 

 
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AMERICAN EXPERIENCE:  KIT CARSON 

To some, he was one of America's greatest heroes: a brave and loyal guide who laid out a path for the westward-moving nation, an Indian tracker who could follow any trail, and a fearless warrior featured in dozens of best-selling novels. But to others, Christopher "Kit" Carson was a villain who waged a merciless crusade against Native Americans. In the end, his contradictions would define his legacy -- and tell the true story of how the West was won.

 

2008 80 MINUTES 

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AMERICAN EXPERIENCE:  BUFFALO BILL 

William "Buffalo Bill" Cody's legendary exploits helped create the myth of the Amercian West that still endures today. This American Experience production draws upon rich archival materials of the period to explore the man behind the legend, revealing the complexity of Buffalo Bill's extraordinary life. 

PBS    2008 1 HOUR

 

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OUT FROM THE SHADOWS:  THE STORY OF IRENE JOLIOT-CURIE AND FREDERIC JOLIOT-CURIE 

Narrated by Julianne Moore.  In this one-hour documentary Out from the Shadows: The Story of Irène Joliot-Curie and Frédéric Joliot-Curie, filmmaker Rosemarie Reed relates the fascinating biographies of the eldest daughter of Marie and Pierre Curie, and her husband Frédéric Joliot. Although less well known than her parents, who had been pioneers of radioactivity, Irène and her husband made a contribution to nuclear physics that was of equally ground-breaking significance. And like her parents, they were awarded a Nobel Prize. 

2009 

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PBS  AMERICAN EXPERIENCE:  GRAND CENTRAL 

American Experience presents Grand Central, from award-winning filmmaker Michael Epstein (The Battle Over Citizen Kane). The one-hour film tells the dramatic story of the famous landmark's construction through interviews with historians, architects, and engineers, while weaving in contemporary portraits from present day New Yorkers who describe their personal connections to Grand Central.

1 HOUR 

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PBS NOVA:  HITLER'S SUNKEN SECRET

An expedition to the bottom of Norway's Lake Tinn illuminates Nazi Germany's nuclear ambitions.

 

2005  56 MINS 

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1959 - A PANORAMA GUIDE 

In 1959, Britain was coming to the realisation that the old world was fast disappearing. The age of Empire was ebbing away and attitudes to class, race and gender were beginning to shift too. Television was entering a golden age and one programme recorded the birth of modern Britain like no other - Panorama. 1959: A Panorama Guide looks at this fascinating year through the eyes of Panorama. 

BBC 2009 1 hour DIGITAL TV

 

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AMERICAN HOLLOW 

Premiering at the 1999 Sundance Film Festival in the documentary competition, Rory Kennedy goes into the heart of Appalachian life in Eastern Kentucky to expose the human side of "hillbillies." Iree Bowling, 68 years old and mother of 13, discusses life in the hollow through interviews and footage of her and her large family. Iree and her family are stuck in century-old traditions that have turned them into a family suffering from poverty thanks to welfare, and unemployment due to lack of opportunities in the Appalachians. Many of the grandkids dream of leaving once and for all, aware they are giving up a time-honored heritage. 

86 MINUTES 

 

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FOLLOWING DREAMS 

Following Dreams is an extraordinary tale inspired by the dreams of ordinary Americans... In this time of economic uncertainty, this documentary fills a void and will encourage viewers to look within for inspiration. In FOLLOWING DREAMS, director Susan Polis Schutz (Anyone and Everyone) journeys across the United States and South America to document the stories of ordinary Americans pursuing their extraordinary dreams. These remarkable men and women embarked on their own personal pursuits of happiness and found their true callings as dairy farmers, professional magicians and singers, Paralympics medalists and saviors of Amazon rainforest. 

PBS 2009 1 hour DIGITAL TV

 

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THE INCREDIBLE HUMAN JOURNEY 

Dr Alice Roberts travels the globe to discover the incredible story of how humans left Africa to colonise the world - overcoming hostile terrain, extreme weather and other species of human. In this five-part series, she pieces together precious fragments of bone, stone and new DNA evidence and discovers how this journey changed these African ancestors into the people of today. PART 1: OUT OF AFRICA / PART 2: ASIA / PART 3: EUROPE / PART 4 AUSTRALIA / PART 5: THE AMERICAS 

2009     3 discs    5 hours     HQ Download

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ALAN WHICKER'S JOURNEY OF A LIFETIME 

Celebrating a remarkable 50 years on television. TV legend and undisputed travel king Alan Whicker sets off round the world on a journey reflecting his incredibly varied life and career.

Part 1: EUROPE    Part 2: CALIFORNIA DREAMING

Part 3: THE AMERICAS    Part 4: HONG KONG AND BEYOND

 

2009     2 discs   4 episodes - 4 hours. HQ Digital download.

 

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AROUND WHICKER'S WORLD  THE ULTIMATE PACKAGE 

Alan Whicker has spent a lifetime travelling around Whicker’s World. But he’s never been on a package tour … Until now! The master interviewer joins 87 high-paying passengers for a breath-taking whistle-stop tour of the globe. 37,000 miles, taking in the wonders of the world in just 34 days, make this the ultimate package tour. Using a private Tri-Star jet as a flying limo, these highfliers drop-in on places most of us have only dreamed of visiting.

DISC 1
EPISODE 1: START THE WORLD. I WANT TO GET ON...
EPISODE 2: THE BEST PLACE TO MURDER YOUR HUSBAND...

DISC 2
EPISODE 3: HER MAKE-UP CASE IS LOST - WE'RE TALKING HYSTERIA...
EPISODE 4: I'VE NEVER THOUGHT OF AN AEROPLANE AS HOME BEFORE...

1992     200 MINUTES     EXCELLENT QUALITY CHAPTERED MENU

 

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HUTCH...  HIGH SOCIETY'S FAVOURITE GIGOLO 

Back in the Roaring Twenties the young, fabulous socialites of London were shaking their hips to the sophisticated sound of a brash young pianist called Leslie ‘Hutch’ Hutchinson. Best known for belting out a Cole Porter-penned paean to philandering called ‘I’m A Gigolo’, Hutch didn’t just talk the talk, as this fascinating documentary makes abundantly clear. Before his death in 1969 he’d chiselled all manner of unlikely notches on his bedpost, including a brief affair with the aforementioned Porter in Paris and a scandalous 30-year relationship with English heiress Lady Edwina Mountbatten. 

CHANNEL 4  2008  50 MINS APPROX

 

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PILE IT HIGH, SELL IT CHEAP

Documentary about the rise of the supermarket, looking at its history and growth over the past 50 years and assessing how it has changed our lives and the consequences for society.

BBC FOUR  2008  40 MINS

SHOPPING FOR ENGLAND

Historian Mica Nava presents a documentary revealing how, in the early 20th century, Woolworths and Selfridges began a consumer revolution that changed the face of the high street and London's West End.  In 1909, Gordon Selfridge offered up his emporium in Oxford Street as a new social space for Edwardian women keen to escape the restrictions of the past century, and Frank Woolworth raised shoppers' aspirations in Liverpool by offering mass-manufactured goods at low, fixed prices.

BOTH ON ONE DISC  BBC FOUR  2008  1 HOUR

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MINIK, THE LOST ESKIMO 

In October 1897, the renowned Arctic explorer Robert Peary returned to New York from his latest Greenland expedition. At the request of anthropologist Franz Boas, he brought with him five polar Eskimos for study at the American Museum of Natural History. Within months, however, four of the Eskimos had fallen sick and died, leaving a seven-year-old boy named Minik to fend for himself in a foreign land. Eventually adopted by a member of the Museum's staff, it was sixteen years before he was able to return to his native Greenland. 

PBS 2008 1 HOUR 

 

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*FRED DIBNAH'S WORLD OF STEEL, STEAM AND STONE 

THE COMPLETE SERIES VOLUMES 1&2

All the episodes from the late Bolton steeplejack's BBC series exploring Britain's industrial heritage. Combining extensive unseen footage with highlights from Fred's programmes over the last seven years, this series looks at the many sides of Fred - engineer, steeplejack, artist, craftsman, steam enthusiast, inventor and storyteller - and celebrates his contribution to our knowledge and appreciation of Britain's architectural, industrial and engineering heritage. This series includes interviews with Fred's family and friends, as well as figures from the world of industrial heritage. 

Run Time: 348 minutes 4 discs

 

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THE CENTURY THAT MADE AMERICA GREAT 

Reader's Digest. CBS News Presentation 1996

 

DISC 1: The Eagle Soars

America opens the Panama Canal and deploys its forces in WWI, taking its first steps as a world power. Its stature soars with the Wrights at Kitty Hawk and Lindbergh over the Atlantic, then breaks all barriers with the aviation booms of Boeing and McDonell-Douglas. The policies of FDR, Turman, Ike and JFK refine our goals, and our strategic leadership is tested and proven as a result of Pearl Harbor, the Cold War and Desert Storm. 55 mins.

DISC 2: Wonders of the Century

Watch Thomas Edison light up America, San Francisco open its Golden Gate Bridge, and Henry Ford perfect his assembly line to produce the Model T. On the silver screen, dance with Fred and Ginger, and go behind the scenes at the filming of the Wizard of Oz. Then see real stars when you cruise inside a space shuttle. Orbit the earth with John Glenn, and follow in Neil Armstrong's spacesteps as he walks on the moon. 56 mins.

DISC 3: Miracles of Communication

Laugh with TV and radio comics Lucille Ball, Bob Hope and Jack Benny. Gain insights into acting from screen legends Bogart and Bacall, and Elizabeth Taylor in rare TV interviews. Be there as Nixon and Kennedy debate, and as the Civil Rights Movement unfolds. From the eloquent orator William Jennings Bryan to the stylings of Walter Cronkite, examine the presidents and news events that made American history. 56 mins 

 

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TRUE STORIES:  DAVE GORMAN'S  AMERICA UNCHAINED 

The multi award-winning British performer, Dave Gorman sets off on a journey to see if it's still possible to live in America without giving any money to 'The Man'. Travelling coast-to-coast, he's not staying in any chain hotels, eating in any chain restaurants, or filling up at any chain gas stations. On this journey, only independent "Mom & Pop" businesses will do. Of course, travelling unchained in a chained world is tricky--when you're tired you can't just stop at a Starbucks, and when the tank is running empty you can't just pull up at the next gas station. Staying true to the task was always going to be a struggle, but the people facing the real struggle are those working to keep the unchained businesses of America alive. 

MORE4   5TH FEB   2008   APPROX  80 MINS DIGITAL TV

 
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BLUE SUEDE JEW 

Documentary-maker Morgan Matthews has decided to follow just one of more than 30,000 Elvis impersonators from around the world - 47-year-old Israeli Gilles Elmalih as he makes a pilgrimage from Jerusalem to Graceland. Despite coming third in last year's European Elvis contest in Blackpool, Gilles and his wife truly believe that the King is speaking to them from beyond the grave. He does this by writing messages on screwed up bits of paper and throwing them from heaven into their living room. They're written in Hebrew because that's the official language in heaven. We even see Gilles's 16-year-old son contacting Elvis's spirit. "How's your mother?" Matthews asks the spirit. "Very good," replies ghost Elvis - and really, you couldn't ask for more conclusive proof of an after-life than that, could you? Gilles is also in touch with Elvis's daughter, Lisa Marie. But she's not returning his emails. I can't imagine why... 

BBC2 2007   1 HOUR     DIGITAL TV 

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*ROUTE 66  THE ULTIMATE DVD COLLECTION 

In this 3 disc set, you'll travel The Mother Road with noted author and highway historian Michael Wallis (award-winning writer of the definitive guide to the nostalgic highway, "Route 66, The Mother Road," as he revisits the tourist spots and quaint motels, secret corners and little towns made famous by his popular book. 

1994, 1995, 2000        3 Discs 190 minutes 

 

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BIENVENUE A CANNES  

Shot mostly during the fest's 59th edition but arriving just in time for the 60th, "Bienvenue a Cannes" is a roundly entertaining tribute to the grande dame of film festivals that, in the hands of Time critic Richard Schickel, also becomes an expression of purest movie love. A broad array of interview subjects — thesps, directors, bizzers and journalists who regard the event with varying degrees of awe, affection and mild exasperation — makes this dishy divertissement a solid primer for the uninitiated and, for Cannes veterans, an enjoyable trip down memory lane. 

TCM RECORDING   2007   80 MINUTES  

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CHELSEA HOTEL (1981) 

Showing as part of New York Week. Documentary made in 1981 about the legendary haven for over a hundred years for performers and artists. This is the place where Dylan Thomas and Nancy (of Sid Vicious fame) died, Arthur C Clarke wrote the awesome '2001. A Space Odyssey' and Warhol and other famous artists stayed. 

BBC4  2007   1 HOUR  DIGITAL TV

 

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MONTANA COWBOYS 

A one-hour program on rural life in America.  Writer, Tom Jenks helped drive three hundred horses across thousands of acres of rugged terrain, in and out of towns, across an interstate highway, and past a 40-foot cliff and other dangers to home. It’s an exhilarating and terrifying ride that provides a metaphor for Montana and America today. Tom scripted and narrated the program. 

BBC 2006   60 MINUTES  DIGITAL TV

 

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DOUBLE FEATURE:

CLIVE JAMES: POSTCARD FROM LAS VEGAS (1997)

Clive James travels to America's gambling capital, an oasis of extravagance in the vast Nevada desert. He visits casinos and chats with stars, including Engelbert Humperdinck and Debbie Reynolds.

TIMEWATCH: LAS VEGAS AND THE MORMONS  (1998)

Historical documentary series. A look at Las Vegas, the world's gambling capital. Over 30 million people visit each year, but most are unaware that it was the clean-living Mormons who played a major part in creating `sin city'.

BOTH TRANSMITTED: BBC2 05/05/1998  RUN TIME APPROX 120 MINUTES

 

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BRAGG ON AMERICA:  THE U.S AND US 

A two part programme in which Melvyn Bragg takes a personal look at the impact of America on Britain; how the British have either embraced or resisted its influence. 

1996     2 part series  2 hours

 

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NEW YORK: BBC4

 

Nightmare in the City That Never Sleeps:  The story of how, thirty years ago New York City overcame blackouts, a serial killer and the threat of bankruptcy, told through the experiences of those who were there, including Tommy Ramone, the founder of the Guardian Angels, Curtis Sliwa, Ed Koch and Rupert Murdoch. Some strong language. 

Lighting Up New York:  New Yorker columnist Adam Gopnik takes a cultural tour of the recent history of New York, taking in sights such as Breakfast at Tiffany's, to when the city became the murder and mugging capital of the world, right up to post 9/11, where Gopnik sees a new positivity emerging. Some strong language. 

2006/7    2 PROGRAMMES ON ONE DISC 2 HOURS  DIGITAL TV

 

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EXTREME LIVES:  DEATH VALLEY

 

This film looks at the group of people who have chosen to live in one of the most inhospitable places on earth – Death Valley in the USA. 

2002   50 MINUTES  DIGITAL TV

 
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*SENSATIONAL CITIES - NEW YORK 

Fantastic documentary made prior to 9/11 narrated by actor James Woods and featuring appearances by a number of historians as well as New York lovers Joan Rivers, Janeane Garofalo, Steve Allen, Donald Trump, actor Brian Dennehy, and former mayor Ed Koch. The city's history is told from the very beginning from when the glacier formed the harbor of New York to present day. An energetic and visual celebration of "The City That Never Sleeps". 

2000      100 MINUTES

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AMERICAN EXPERIENCE:  LAS VEGAS: AN UNCONVENTIONAL HISTORY

 

THE STORY OF LAS VEGAS' LAST HUNDRED YEARS  (2005) 

PBS  RECORDING    2 DISCS  180 MINUTES 

 

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THE GREAT SAN FRANCISCO EARTHQUAKE

 
2006 marked the 100th anniversary of the San Francisco earthquake and fire, America's worst urban catastrophe. Based on powerful, emotive eyewitness accounts and featuring spectacular CGI and live action, this 100 minute dramatised documentary recreates the terror of the initial quake and the four days and nights of horror that followed. Featuring Maxwell Caulfield as Mayor Schmitz

 

2006   100 MINUTES  DIGITAL TV

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AMERICAN EXPERIENCE:  THE ASSASSINATION OF ABRAHAM LINCOLN 

On April 14, 1865, Abraham Lincoln was assassinated at Ford’s Theatre in Washington, DC. Over the next twelve days, as a fractured nation mourned, the largest manhunt ever attempted closed in on his assassin, the twenty-six-year-old renowned actor, John Wilkes Booth. This 90 minute film recounts this great American drama: two tumultuous months when the joy of peace was shattered by the heartache of Lincoln’s death. 

 

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