A film inspired by the Victorian inventor Charles Babbage, a man equally famous for inventing the computer and failing to build it. Part historical drama part fantasy, the film introduces us to those Babbage loved and lost. Babbage's story is one of inventive genius, failure...
A film inspired by the Victorian inventor Charles Babbage, a man equally famous for inventing the computer and failing to build it. Part historical drama part fantasy, the film introduces us to those Babbage loved and lost. Babbage's story is one of inventive genius, failure and loss focusing on a time which gave birth to the modern world.
Some good performance from the lead went a long way to making this watchable, but...
This can't be the best way to approach the subject. I understand that budget must have been a concern, but I would have much rather seen snippets from Babbage's life. Even if the backdrops were shrowded in darkness. Some sort of drama, rather than retrospective and this awkward dinner where everyone just praises him up and down and repeats things.
Sure the oddness of the dinner is explained, but... that doesn't make it more interesting to sit through.
Considering the financial constraints, this is an excellent piece of work. With dimmers & more flexible lamps, the light could have been more subtle, reflecting the gas or candles used at that time. Steven Payne's & Amy Dean's deliveries are the closest to the period, and their performances most suited to close camera work. Whilst not excessively jarring, one or two of the other performances were too large for screen, showing the bias in British training for the live theatre. Claire Barker's direction shows a grasp of her subject, and the ability to guide, unobtrusively, (always the mark of a good director) her actors in the logical direction for their characters, and the narrative. The set and costume designers also deserve a round of applause for their contribution to the film's success. It would be nice to see, with fewer physical and financial limitations, and with the same key crew and principle actors, this short being extended to a 90 minute TVM
Although, the wardrobe department did a great job, I felt the film was let down in the way of the framing composition and with it being slightly over exposed over powered the vibrant colours. The set seemed a little cramped for these characters of a grandeur background.
Script was good, as were the performances from most actors, especially Steven Payne, who carried the film well. But was sometimes let down by others over acting and appearing false.
my only concern is the limit of space, 'cos the whole scene seemed restricted within a diner hall. im not sure if there is any specific purpose after this setting, though.
yeah, i agree with minanami. will have to watch it over again to be able to judge fairly and thoroughly.
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This can't be the best way to approach the subject. I understand that budget must have been a concern, but I would have much rather seen snippets from Babbage's life. Even if the backdrops were shrowded in darkness. Some sort of drama, rather than retrospective and this awkward dinner where everyone just praises him up and down and repeats things.
Sure the oddness of the dinner is explained, but... that doesn't make it more interesting to sit through.