The Oscar Wilde collection [videorecording]
A collection of four of Oscar Wilde's masterpieces, and a 1995 documentary about his life, his relationship with Alfred Douglas and the trials that destroyed his career. Includes reflections by Wilde's grandson Merlin Holland, and Douglas' grandniece Alice Douglas. The Importance of Being Earnest: "Filled with wit and wisdom, The Importance of being Earnest tells the tale of Jack Worthing and Algernon Moncrieff. Jack has invented an imaginary brother, Ernest, whom he uses as an excuse to escape from his dull home in the country and frolic in town. Algernon uses a similar technique, only in reverse: his imaginary friend, Bunbury, provides a convenient and frequent method of taking adventures in the country. However, their deceptions eventually cross paths, resulting in a series of crises that threaten to spoil their romantic pursuits; Jack of his love Gwendolyn Fairfax, and Algernon of his belle Cecily Cardew." The picture of Dorian Gray: "Oscar Wilde's only novel, The picture of Dorian Gray, is a chilling melodrama, which scandalized polite society when first published in 1890. Dorian Gray is a wealthy English gentleman who gradually sinks into a life of dissipation and crime. Enthralled with his own physical beauty, Dorian purchases eternal youth at the expense of his soul. While Dorian remains young and unchanged by his hedonistic lifestyle, his portrait hides the terrible truth." An ideal husband: "Set during the London season of 1895, An ideal Husband is a dazzling blend of farce and morality that explores human frailty and social hypocrisy. Sir Robert Chilton's secret is discovered and exposed. He is accused of having exploited government secrets for his own gain early in his political career. With this revelation from Mrs. Cheveley comes the threat of blackmail and the ruin of Sir Robert's career. Yet in order to be a successful blackmailer, one's own reputation must be beyond reproach." Lady Windermere's Fan: "Centering around the arrival of a mysterious woman hoping to break into London's society, Lady Windermere's Fan was Wilde's first great stage success. Lady Windermere learns from a friend that Lord Windermere is spending a great deal of time with a Mrs. Erlynne, and fearing that he is being unfaithful to her, she decides that their marriage is at an end. Then, in an act of striking generosity, Mrs. Erlynne protects Lady Windermere's reputation and truths about trust and loyalty are ironically revealed."
Record details
- ISBN: 0790768704
- ISBN: 9780790768700
- Physical Description: 2 videodiscs (408 min) : sound : 4 3/4 in.
- Publisher: [London] : BBC Video, 2002.
Content descriptions
Formatted Contents Note: | [1] Stage left. The importance of being earnest (1986) ; The picture of Dorian Gray (1976) (196 min.) -- [2] Stage right. An ideal husband (1969) ; Lady Windermere's fan (1985) ; The life and loves of Oscar Wilde (1995) (260 min.) |
Participant or Performer Note: | Participants: Importance of being earnest: Joan Plowright, Paul McGann, Amanda Redman, Rupert Frazer, Natalie Ogle, Gemma Jones, Alec McCowen. Picture of Dorian Grey: Jeremy Brett, Peter Firth, John Gielgud, Gwen Ffrangon-Davies, Nan Munro, Mark Dignam, Judi Bowker. Ideal husband: Jeremy Brett, Susan Hampshire, Keith Michell, Dinah Sheridan. Lady Windermere's fan: Helena Little, Tim Woodward, Stephanie Turner, Kenneth Cranham, Sara Kestleman |
Target Audience Note: | MPAA rating: not rated |
System Details Note: | DVD |
Language Note: | English |
Search for related items by subject
Subject: | DVDs Identity (Psychology) > Drama. Mothers and daughters > Drama. Supernatural > Drama. Television programs > Great Britain. |
Available copies
- 1 of 1 copy available at NC Cardinal. (Show)
- 1 of 1 copy available at Rockingham County Public Library.
Holds
- 0 current holds with 1 total copy.
Show Only Available Copies
Location | Call Number / Copy Notes | Barcode | Shelving Location | Status | Due Date |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Reidsville Library | vid rotation blue - 0925 (Text) | 31554009822593 | Adult Video | Available | - |