Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

Horatio Hornblower - or simpy Hornblower to us non-Americans - is British historical fiction and naval adventure at its very best; an era when men were gentlemen, courage could still be found, and loyalty actually meant something. The series features fine acting and memorable characters, combined with action sequences of a scale and quality rarely found in made-for-TV productions. Like many other British-American films (Harry Potter and the Philosopher's/Sorcerer's Stone, for instance), the titles on this Region 1 US Disc differ markedly from the rest of the world: The Duel = The Even Chance, The Fire Ship = The Examination For Lieutenant, The Wrong War = The Frogs and The Lobsters, Hornblower 3 = Loyalty. Although one or two of these titles may seem obscure to an American audience, the terminology is covered in the episodes themselves and it seems a shame to change them, as I believe these titles to be more accurate and appropriate to the British source material. As for the films themselves, Welshman Ioan Gruffudd is perfect in the title role, playing the gallant officer with ease whilst displaying just enough fear and self-doubt to make the character believable. CS Forester's original inspiration for this character is uncertain, with many citing Thomas Cochrane, 10th Earl of Dundonald (whose exploits and daring is indeed evident in the character of Hornblower). Yet to my mind Hornblower's severe seasickness, brilliant tactical improvisation under fire, and "Nelson Touch"-like ability to command respect from the highest officers and the lowest seamen, are all reminscent of the legendary Horatio Nelson. As great as the acting is (Robert Lindsey is superb as Captain/Admiral Pellew), the real stars of this show are the ships themselves: the grand Justinian, the sturdy frigate Indefatigable, the 74-gun Renown, and Hornblower's very own Hotspur. These old ships from the Age of Sail bring a rare presence and dignity to the screen, and one can't help but watch in awe as they run out the guns in preparation for battle, trim the sails to ride out huge storms, or sail into the horizon with crew members perched high in the rigging. Highly recomended, Hornblower combines action and adventure with a human touch, as Mr. Hornblower strives to fulfil his duty whilst wrestling with the morality of war and occasionally questioning his own ability to lead the men in his charge. Horatio Hornblower is a worthy hero in the chivalrous mould, displaying patience and bravery, greatness and extreme kindness, weaved into a series of inspiring tales.