Blackadder Remastered - The Ultimate Edition (1982)
Blackadder Remastered - The Ultimate Edition Image Cover
Additional Images
Studio:2 Entertain Video
Rating:4.0 (4 votes)
Rated:Suitable for 15 years and over
Date Added:2009-06-20
Last Seen:2009-08-01
ASIN:B001UHO0TY
UPC:5051561028168
Price:£59.99
Genre:Comedy, Television
Release:2009-06-15
Duration:719
Features:Box set
  ...  (Director)
  ...  (Writer)
 
Rowan Atkinson  ...  
Tony Robinson  ...  
Tim McInnerny  ...  
Stephen Fry  ...  
Hugh Laurie  ...  
Summary: I moaned like mad at the dire 'Complete collection' box set when it came out because of the truly awful picture & sound quality so it seems only fair to pass comment upon this new release.
Having only seen a few brief scenes doesn't allow for a series by series review of improvements but from what I have seen the picture quality would appear to at last be up to scratch & no longer as if peering through fog, especially in the outside scenes which in the previous release were like watching it through soup. Perhaps even more important than sharpness is the colour balance which bled greens & reds all over the shop before has been adjusted & no longer intrudes.
For many though the real question is not whether the picture is up to scratch but what do we get that's new? Well for me the most exciting prospect would be commentaries which are to include Rowan Atkinson, Stephen Fry, Ben Elton, Tim McInnerny & Tony Robinson. This was a prospect about as likely as Prince George finding his socks up until now & is a really promising extra. As are the extended interviews with many of those involved.
Needless to say theres no new 'lost' footage & all thats added from before is the Cavalier years & a costume piece. These sit alongside last years anniversary documentary which while not new is a welcome edition.
Ultimate edition? Well I suppose it all depends how much of a fan you are. I love the show & am happy to shell out for the commentaries & improved picture but can fully understand those that feel a bit ripped off for shelling out before only to see this come along & consign their,(not exactly cheap), previous box set to the 'has-been' bin.
You know what you're getting from the show itself. One of the funniest & remarkably little aged comedies ever seen with acting that is peerless. If you love it then surely you've already ordered this edition. If you're not sure & already have the original release then perhaps your pennies are better spent elsewhere...in which case, can I interest you in a giant turnip...?