2 Entertain Video The Oscar Wilde BBC Collection - (3 Disc Box Set) [DVD] [1969]

I bought this knowing that Gielgud had acted superbly in The Importance of Being Ernest, in particular with Edith Evans. Sadly this is a later version in the "dramatically serious" style of the 1970's BBC, and only features Gielgud in Dorian Gray, which was not even an Oscar Wilde play. Along with 80 other Amazon readers, I share the view of amg1900 in calling this production "dated". "Being Ernest" is disappointing if you compare it with the soundtrack of the Gielgud 1947 or 1952 versions available on YouTube. Apparently this version contains additional material that was wisely cut by Wilde, and together with the laboured acting the longer version becomes tedious. I particularly disliked the male actors in "Lady Windermere's Fan". Perhaps the best performance was Osborne's adaptation of "Dorian Gray" but "An Ideal Husband" is also watchable. The "Life and Loves of Oscar Wilde" is worth seeing, but the opinions of distant relatives are irrelevant.I don't understand Amazon's "top reviews" which were short and received no votes, when the negative amg1900 review earned 80 votes and is clearly the opinion of most people. Amazon is further misrepresenting this edition by attributing it to "John Gielgud".

I bought this as I had previously read the Picture of Dorian Gray and wanted to see the film. I was very pleasantly surprised with the other 3 DVD's. All 4 films are extremely well made, The importance of Being Earnest is incredibly funny - and has continued to make me laugh during repeat watchings. The other movies are also well crafted dramas with unpredictable story lines that keep you entertained from start to finish. The Oscar Wilde story I found desperately sad. I have now bought this box set for my son as I know he will enjoy it as much as I have.

Very enjoyable and superbly acted versions of the four playes. That is how Oscar Wilde intended them to be played. Don't bother with the newer makes as they are quite abysmal.

We have greatly enjoyed seeing the plays. "The Importance of Being Earnest" is a great production, far superior to the more recent film starring Everett, Firth, Dench, Witherspoon etc which plays fast and loose with the original, to no positive effect.It was interesting comparing "An Ideal Husband" to the recent film version. Both are good, but the film alters some details, while the play version appears to omit some.

This Collection of Good Olde Memories takes you back to the decadent aristocratic drawing rooms of the 1890's England. Lovingly restored for DVD, these plays feature a who's who of great actors of the British stage like Sir John Gielgud and Joan Plowright and many more.I doubt if the modern youth of today would enjoy this collection but am sure our older generation would be thrilled to be able to look back in time. A treat for Grannies and Grandpas to view and really enjoy.