The Shooting Party (1985)
Parental Guidance Recommended
Autumn, 1913: on the eve of the Great War, a small party of lords and ladies gather at the Hertfordshire estate of Sir Randolph Nettleby. A code of propriety governs all: dress, breakfast, relations with the estate's peasants, courtship, shooting, adultery.
Lionel Stephens, who is courting Sir Randolph's daughter, gets into a shooting competition with Lord Gilbert Hartlip; Lord Gilbert's wife carries on discreet affairs; a pamphleteer circles the estate calling for no more killing, and Sir Robert's grandson hopes to protect a wild duck he's befriended. A way of life is ending: Lord Gilbert's violation of the gentlemen's code suggests internal rot as the real world presses in.
| Status: | Normal |
|---|---|
| Run time: | 97mins |
| Origin: | UNITED KINGDOM |
| Aspect Ratio: | 1.33:1 Fullscreen |
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Member Reviews (8)
8 Member
Reviews
says
This is a great film from director Alan Bridges. I first saw this film back in the 80's and if anything I found it better this time around. The decaying aristocracy in the lead up to WW I.
The only problem I have is with the particular print that has been used for this DVD edition. The picture is very washed out and unfortunately the picture has been cropped to produce a 4:3 aspect ratio - cutting at least a third of the overall picture. This is a real shame as the original cinematography by Fred Tammes was beautifully done. The film was originally released with an aspect ratio of 1.85:1. It looks as though the DVD print was taken directly from a video tape.
Andrew R.
says
Tony
says
At last on DVD. One of Britain's finest films, surprisingly not mentioned in two well known guides. Every aspect of film making receives devoted attention, superb script, wonderful cast , fine locations and sets and a music score which stands alone for sheer beauty. The careful observation of an era of class and privelige soon to be swept away and the foreboding of the slaughter of WW1 metaphorically alluded to as the story unfolds.
This film is a valuable commentary on the times and as such a true classic.
Ross K.
says
Katherine L.
says
Russell Grainger
says
If you enjoy Merchant Ivory period pieces, this one is right for you. Slow moving, beautifully produced, nice characterisations, a little mannered. Was it the last performance of James Mason? Many more followed in this vein and did it better.
Jenni Westaway
says
An engrossing and classic British movie with a wonderful cast. Slow in places, but well worth a watch.
Howard Gibson
says
Ah the English aristocracy at play, even if it is only a practice match for the real sport of gentlemen and kings, war.