The Clifton House Mystery – The Complete Series (1978/Network U.K./PAL Region 2 DVD Import)

 

Picture: C+     Sound: C+     Extras: C-     Episodes: C+

 

 

PLEASE NOTE: This DVD can only be operated on machines capable of playing back DVDs that can handle Region Two/2 PAL format software and can be ordered from our friends at Network U.K. at the website address provided at the end of the review.

 

 

I was not certain if I had ever seen The Clifton House Mystery series, but if I did, I can see why I would forget.  It is made for teen audiences and is not very effective.  First broadcast in the U.K. in 1978, this six-episode show is practically a mini-series and has a few good things going for it (it is ambitious and intelligent) but has not aged too well either.

 

Essentially, an old house is up for sale, the Clare Family buys it and discovers it is haunted.  Man of the house Timothy Clare is an orchestral conductor and they know they have a name place, Clifton House.  Soon, after the thrill of the purchase has kicked in, it is obvious something is wrong and they start to slowly unravel the trouble and problems.  They even have to get eventually get a ghost hunter.  Sounds better than it is, but worth a look for diehards interested in the subject.

 

The 1.33 X 1 image was shot on PAL analog videotape and looks good for its age and better than similar PAL productions we have been getting in from several companies of late.  The Dolby Digital 2.0 Mono is also decent for its age including its interesting score and sound effects.  Stills are the only extras.

 

 

As noted above, you can order this DVD import exclusively from Network U.K. at:

 

http://www.networkdvd.net/

 

or

 

www.networkdvd.co.uk

 

 

-   Nicholas Sheffo