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Click here to return to the main site. DVD Review
Narrated by John Hurt and aided by his cynical dog, the original series cleverly retells classic folk tales, fables and legends such as The Three Ravens and The Heartless Giant. The StoryTeller: Greek Myths retells Daedalus and Icarus, Orpheus and Eurydice, Perseus and Gorgon, and Theseus and the Minotaur and is narrated by Sir Michael Gambon once again aided by his talking dog... From the creators of Labyrinth and The Dark Crystal, this 2-disc complete collection comprises all 9 episodes of Jim Henson’s The StoryTeller series narrated by John Hurt, plus all 4 episodes of Jim Henson’s The StoryTeller: Greek Myths narrated by Michael Gambon. Featuring both human actors and creations from Jim Henson's Creature Shop, The StoryTeller tells classic folk tales from around the world. Some, like Sapsorrow, are variations on familiar themes. Sapsorrow has many elements of the classic Cinderella tale. I don't think I've ever watched the show in its entirety, even though I know I've seen at least a handful of episodes. Watching this now I'm saddened that the series didn't go on to spawn more episodes. It still stands up incredibly well and it could almost be a modern show. This is mainly down to the beautiful cinematography, sets and wonderful array of creatures from the Creature Shop. The stories are wonderfully realised and in the Greek Myths series, it's interesting to note how some of the tales overlap briefly. For example, we see the architect (Daedalus) of the Minotaur's labyrinth in the episode Daedalus and Icarus. Both series have an impressive cast. Some were already big names, whilst others would go on to be famous in later years. There are appearances by Miranda Richardson, Jane Horrocks, Sean Bean, Jonathan Pryce, Brenda Blethyn, Jennifer Saunders, Joely Richardson and Dawn French with the Greek Myths including Derek Jacobi, Pat Roach and Art Malik. Whilst this is a family show, I'm surprised at the U rating, as some of the creatures and themes are the stuff of nightmares for adults, let alone very young children. Another important aspect of the show's charm is Rachel Portman's beautifully melancholic, reflective score. There are no extras, which is a shame as a behind the scenes documentary or new retrospective feature would have been interesting. The picture quality hasn't been spruced up, which is a shame. Hopefully, at some point in the future, a restored Blu-ray release may see the light of day. Jim Henson’s The StoryTeller is as impressive today as it was when it was originally broadcast 38 years ago in 1987. 10 Darren Rea Buy this item online
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