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The New Statesman - The Complete First Series [1987]
![The New Statesman - The Complete First Series [1987]](http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/413CPVQZV5L._SL160_.jpg)
RRP: £9.99
Our Price: £13.19 (subject to change)
Editorial
DVD Description
Rik Mayall stars as the ruthless Alan B'Stard, the egocentric MP who will stop at nothing to further his political career. With no morals, no depth to which he wouldn't sink and no plot too cunning, following the antics of such an immoral MP makes for unbelievable nonstop comedy.
Editorial
Special Features
4:3 Full Frame
DVD 9
English
Region 2
Mono English
Mono
Editorial
Synopsis
This disc rounds up all seven episodes from the first series of this cutting satirical comedy about a morally bankrupt politician. Rik Mayall plays Alan B'Stard, who will stop at nothing in his quest for political power and financial gain.
Does it bring subtitles ??
Review date: 2006-06-07 Rating: 10 out of 10
I love this show, used to watch it when I was a kid. I would like to know if it brings subtitles, because I am Spanish so there may be some things that I might not get unless the dvd's bring subtitles. I don't need them in Spanish, although it'd be nice. In English they will do me, but if they don't then I'll have to consider it getting it or not, so if anyone could answer my question I'd be really thankful. If you're a native English-speaker, no doubt about it, get it ! Check out for the Mighty Boosh, Only Fools & Horses, Little Britain, Blackadder, and the Royle Family. God bless ! Cheers, JGM.
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Reviews
Excellent, OTT political satire on a not-too-impressive DVD
Review date: 2002-07-10 Rating: 6 out of 10
Although I don't think The New Statesman was at its best until the start of the 3rd series, these first seven episodes have enough character and laughs in them to make this disc highly watchable. Rik Mayall looking slim, young and charming, quickly asserts himself as Alan B'Stard, a, ahem, slightly right-of-centre Tory MP whose unspeakable acts of corruption and self-promotion are the basis for the plots and most of the laughs. No act is too low for the rising star of the new right, burying nuclear waste under a primary school, sabotaging the cars of opponents, peddling hardcore pornography, anything as long as he stays in profit while staying out of the law courts.
The support cast is good, particularly Sarah, Piers and Alan's father-in-law Roland (even worse than B'Stard on occasions), a shame he didn't reappear in later series with some more of the brilliant lines he comes out with in this one.
Unfortunately, as with many 80's TV releases, the DVD leaves much to be desired. No extras, which I could live with, but of two different copies I have now seen, both have the same fault of a short sound failure at an identical point in the second episode. Very irritating and a real letdown.
Otherwise a great reminder of a wonderful show. Lets hope the remaining series are on the way, preferably with some extras, the feature length special and Comic Relief sketch would be a good start.
New Statesman wins with the biggest Majority
Review date: 2001-11-21 Rating: 10 out of 10
Alan B'stard is one of the lowest, basest, politicians that England and the EU have ever seen. And he would have it no other way. The first series of seven episodes are presented in this DVD and the word "superb" doesn't even begin to describe the storyline of this evil man's rise to power. Sometimes matched by those around him such as his ever deceitful wife Sarah B'stard and her father Roland Giddlypark, but never surpassed, Alan sets upon his friends and foes alike in an unashamed barrage of sarcasm, retribution, and traitorous behaviour. With the witless and long suffering companion, Piers Fletcher-Dervish, Alan sets to rule England in any way he can. This DVD marks the beginning of an amazing set of series and is 170 minutes of pure political deviancy. A must for all those who love to laugh till their sides ache.
Tremendous 80's political satire
Review date: 2001-11-20 Rating: 10 out of 10
Absolutely superb viewing. I loved the series first time round. It was very risque, taking a look at the political sculduggery that goes on behind the scenes in parliament. Oh! so believable. Rik Mayall as Alan B'Stard plays one of his funniest ever roles. 'Corruption and depravity in the corridors of power', what more could you want! I am so thankfull to Granada for bringing it out on DVD. Having all six episodes on one disc is just great. Superb!!!! Can't wait for the other series to be released.
Product Details/Specifications
Actor(s):
Martin Friend
Creators:
Martin Friend (Primary Contributor)
Recording label: Cinema Club
Manufacturer: Cinema Club
EAN: 5014138298920
Binding: DVD
Number of items: 1
Format: Full Screen, PAL,
Release date: 2003-10-13
Number of discs: 1
Aspect ratio: 1.33:1
Audience rating: Suitable for 15 years and over
Region code: 2
Running time: 170 minutes
Theatrical release date: 1987-09-13
Language: English (Original Language)