Tony Robinson’s Cunning Night Out! (Acorn Media DVD/Stand Up Comedy)
Picture: C+ Sound: C+ Extras: C Concert: B-
Starting
his career as a child actor, Tony Robinson has seen much, including the many
changes in the industry on both sides of the Atlantic. By the early 1980s, he gained international
attention for his hilarious portrayal of Baldwick in several wild and sometimes
controversial versions of the TV hit Blackadder. A quarter century later, with that show still
possibly returning again, he is doing a very funny stand-up act and Tony Robinson’s Cunning Night Out! (2007)
marks the 25th anniversary of his hit series and so much more.
The best
thing I can say is that he is funnier and has much more to say and share than
the many stand-up comics we have sat through lately who are trying too hard,
making dumb jokes, don’t know what funny is and have no points to make
whatsoever. His industry reminisces are
terrific, especially if you know it well, but he is also bold and pulls no punches
all the way to being overtly political.
Even then, he is still funny. He
also has a great audience, which makes this even better. If you need some good laughs, this is for
you, and that it translates well beyond its Britishness is just another plus.
The
anamorphically enhanced 1.78 X 1 image was shot in HD of some kind and looks
good, but this downtrade to DVD is a little soft, though color is consistent
and Video Black not bad. The Dolby
Digital 2.0 Stereo has no major surrounds, but is nicely recorded and you can
hear Robinson clearly. Extras include a
sing-along piece and a Q&A with Robinson with suggestions of more possible
Blackadder shows.
- Nicholas Sheffo
