CD-Charts Position 1
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Les Miserables [1995]

starring: Colm Wilkinson, Philip Quast, Ruthie Henshall, Jenny Galloway, Alun Armstrong
directed by: John Caird, Gavin Taylor, Paul Kafno

Release Date November 01, 1999
Having seen the show live in the west end I was pleased as punch to see that this had been released. This truly is the dream cast. Ruthie Henshall, Michael Ball, Philip Quast are all simply sensational. From the opening through to the barricades to the bitter sweet ending it's perfect. Listen out for Philip Quast as he sings 'Stars' just stunning. colm Wilkinson is wonderful as Jean Valjean. And ruthie henshall is stunning as Fantine. the perfect show with the perfect cast. Leah Salonga is worthy of a mention for her stunning portrayal of Eppoinine. Stunning, simply stunning!

CD-Charts Position 2
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Andrew Lloyd Webber - The Royal Albert Hall Celebration [1998]

starring: Tina Arena, Michael Ball, Antonio Banderas, Keith Duffy, Stephen Gately
directed by: David Mallet

Release Date October 16, 2000
Even if you don't like all the selections on here, if you like Evita, Phantom or Sunset Boulevard, it's worth it.

Antonio Banderas is amazing in "Phantom of The Opera". His voice, usually warm and rich is here cold and sinister. It makes an interesting contrast to Gerard Butler's portrayal of a passionate man who, but for his disfigurement, would have been a romantic hero. Banderas, although not in costume or make up, vividly conveys the dark side of the character. Sarah Brightman is, of course, splendid in her performance.

In the funeral scene from Evita, Banderas acts his part as well as singing it. This scene is most welcome for anyone who remembers fondly the original staging of Evita, before the messy film and Lloyd ... Read More:

CD-Charts Position 3
Average Rating:

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Where Eagles Dare [1968]

starring: Richard Burton, Clint Eastwood, Mary Ure, Patrick Wymark, Michael Hordern
directed by: Brian G. Hutton

Release Date June 19, 2000
This is one of my favourite films of all time. Great cast, superb scenery and a devastating twist.

CD-Charts Position 4
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Hey Mister Producer - The Musical World Of Cameron Mackintosh

starring: Julie Andrews, Russ Abbot, Michael Ball, John Barrowman, Peter Bayliss
directed by: Gavin Taylor

Release Date November 01, 1999
This assembly of musical talent is beyond words for those who love it and those who are learning it is a great starting point. A brief, yet accurate introduction to musical theartre that is inspiring and well thought out. The talent includes the age old treasure as well as the newer albeit experienced crew. A truly rewarding video experience that is not to be forgotten soon and will provide many hours of entertainment. I only wish it was available on region 2 DVD so as I could watch my favoutite parts again and again. Watch, listen and more importantly enjoy.

CD-Charts Position 5
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The Pebble And The Penguin [1996]

starring: Shani Wallis, S. Scott Bullock, Martin Short, Annie Golden, Louise Vallance
directed by: Don Bluth, Gary Goldman

Release Date August 12, 1996
I began to watch this film without expecting much. Admittedly, it does not feature the best animation, but that is not the most important feature in an animated film. It's not the 'Lion King' or 'Dinasaur', but I don't think that it was meant to be. The story is about a love triangle between a good-guy penguin named Hubie, his sweetheart Marina and the egotistical and pompous Drake - this penguin is willing to stoop or bully his way to any level to marry Marina, who is not very interested in him. Hubie must beat the clock to find the most precious pebble and make it back in time, braving all kinds of weather and challenging situations in order to wed Marina. This love-triangle theme of the film was not too 'grown-up', was handled well, and is suitable for children of all ages.
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CD-Charts Position 6
Average Rating:

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Michael Ball - The Musicals And More [1996]

starring: Michael Ball

Release Date March 10, 1997
Michael Ball made his name in the musicals, and many would argue that that is where his vocal roots remain. He is in his element here, performing to a sell-out audience some of the very best songs from the world of musical theatre. Songs from Phantom, Miss Saigon, Les Mis, Aspects of Love, etc etc. Prepare to be amazed!

CD-Charts Position 7
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The Last Castle [2002]

starring: Robert Redford, James Gandolfini, Mark Ruffalo, Steve Burton, Delroy Lindo
directed by: Rod Lurie

Release Date July 12, 2004
this movie was something I just decided to watch at the last minute not expecting much, however I was instantly engrossed in the story of these men. The cast and script is exceptional in letting us understand that they each have a story, but are able to create a real sense of male solidarity and unity that you most probably would find within a group of army men.
I loved this film and would recommend it to anyone who wants to see action mixed with real emotion and a real story.
Although I feel Redford was very good in this movie, I do feel that the supporting cast are the key and vital elements to this films success.
A film worthy of being in anyone's collection.

CD-Charts Position 8
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The Commitments [1991]

starring: Robert Arkins, Michael Aherne, Angeline Ball, Maria Doyle Kennedy, Dave Finnegan
directed by: Alan Parker

Release Date January 04, 1999
I picked this up cheaply from the supermarket this week, having been keen to see it for some time. I liked the idea of the story, and the musical performances were excellent, but I thought the acting and script didn't come up to the same standard. In particular, I thought Robert Arkins as the lead character (Jimmy Rabbitte) gave a very wooden performance - it seemed at times as if he was reading his lines off a cue card. And I thought the dialogue, while funny in places, was so over-laced with swearing that its impact became ineffective, even on the level of poetry.

I know that most of the (hitherto unknown) cast were assembled on the basis of their musical skills first and any acting ability second, which is probably why so much screentime is devoted to the band playing. This ... Read More:

CD-Charts Position 9
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Michael Ball - Live At The Royal Albert Hall

starring: Michael Ball

Release Date March 20, 2000
This is a very good introduction to Michael Ball - if you haven't heard any one of his best-selling albums. He is a rare talent - gifted with a magnificent voice which can handle the low baritones to the soaring tenor notes and an actor-trained emotive ability - he sings songs from different musical genres, particularly in this album. He is at his best singing songs from the musical theatre, but you will also surely enjoy his more contemporary ballads and upbeat songs -- songs like The Way We Were, We Have All the Time in the World, The Rose, and The Blues Brothers Medley. There are even songs from the rock and roll era -- which enliven his many concert performances. Try this album and you'll be hooked -- you'll probably go back to Amazon for the other albums ( like The Musicals, The Movies and This ... Read More:

CD-Charts Position 10
Average Rating:

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Suburban Commando [1991]

starring: Hulk Hogan, Christopher Lloyd, Shelley Duvall, Larry Miller, William Ball
directed by: Burt Kennedy

Release Date October 14, 1992
What a great little film this is. I have watched it over and over again and never tire of it. A great little comedy, children and adults alike will love it.
The Hulkster, is supported by a fabulous cast including Mark (The Undertaker) Calaway, for you grappling fans.
The plot is simple but crambed full of laughs.
Long overdue for release as Region 2.
Well worth watching!