Gulliver's Travels [1996]

I recently decided to view 3 versions of this Story- the 1936 animation (which is faded, very slow and redirects the story towards a lilliputian Love affair... and misses the giants out completely.(1 star)-the 1972 RIchard Harris mixed animation /Live version which is also slow and faded- and is perhaps a 2 star job... stopping before the giants of chapter 2- AND this star-name packed TV serial spectacular from C4 in the 90's or new millenium.This 3 or 4 hour attempt to cover Swift's entire book and some is the one to see. The writers have even attempted to interweave their own extra dimension where Lemuel has returned home like Odysseus to find another suitor moving in on his long-abandoned wife- and the evil suitor manipulating to have him incarcerated as a lunatic for his traveller's tales. It is very well written and acted... perhaps better by some actors than others - and a full-on production with every forgotten chapter and expensive special effects fit for it's time. Some sections seemed to lack a little dramatic tension that you may expect, the editing was a tad confusing at times... but then again - the mind of the protagonist was also...It certainly makes you wonder why they bothered to re-do this True classic with Jack Black in a recent decade and ruin it.Oddly, I have some vague memories of an even more visually sumptuous TV version that I thought that I once saw- with the King sat at the table tapping his small end of the egg and fuming at a guest who chose the big end... which I cannot locate?The actual book has probably never been done full cinematic justice- but this version is the closest I can find to doing it right.

The product description gives a very nice outline of the plot, so I won't add my own summary. Having read the novel many years ago, I was delighted to find this adaption which includes all of Gulliver's adventures instead of being restricted to his visit to Lilliput.This is a TV production with exceptionally high production values. The cast is stellar with a number of veritable world stars appearing in every segment of the film. Particular favourites of mine are Peter O'Toole as the pompous Emperor of Lilliput (hilarious) and Omar Sharif who is rather impressive as the sourcerer who brings various greats in history back to life. The costumes, sets and visual effects are as amazing as the cast, making this a very enjoyable watch for a long wet winter afternoon. The total runtime of the film is 3 hours. It was originally broadcast in two parts and the episodic nature of the tale lends itself to watching in shorter sessions if so desired.Overall, this is well made and intelligent family entertainment. Mature viewers will be able to appreciate the underlying political satire while younger audiences can have their fun with the outlandish scenearios of tiny people, giants, floating islands and speaking horses.The DVD is fine, but the 15 : 9 picture aspect is awkward and it may require a bit of fiddling with the settings to get an undistorted picture ratio. Optional English subtitles are available. Also included is a very nice 24 min making of featurette.

Jonathan Swift's book is now nearly 300 years old. Recently we have the Hobbit and Harry Potter that have captured peoples imagination but long before came 'Gulliver's Travels' which was an instant best seller with folk of that time who could read.This mini-series has really captured the essence of the book, satire and all, though those subtleties may escape young children ---- the series is still stunning and a real treat for all the family. Special effects by Jim Henson bring Swift's extraordinary stories to life and the ensemble cast guarantee believable performances throughout. What a blend of superb British And American actors. Sadly many have passed but this is a beautiful legacy to leave behind.By far the best adaption of the book, and when first shown on American television it attracted an audience of 56 Million viewers---- Wow, and it's British!English subtitles, 180 minutes long.

An absolutely amazing, thoroughly enjoyable adaptation of a staggeringly good book. If you like the book, this film will put a smile on your face. Whilst not being a 100% accurate adaptation, which it never could be given the breadth and complexity of the imagery of the original story, the way the makers have conceived it is a joy to see. I had reservations about the introduction of the mental asylum element, but the makers have managed to make it into a worthy, and surprisingly good addition, which brings a wonderful extra layer to film. If you've ever read 1984, and then watched the film, then this is the polar opposite, this is how you interpret and film a classic book and bring it to motion picture life. The acting is superb, the cast is truly dazzling, and the overall experience is a wonderful one.

A well constructed film adaptation based on the novel of the same name by Jonathan Swift. A very powerful story combined by the acting and voice talents of most famous actors such as Omar Sharif and Peter O'Toole for example. This movie follows the whole novel from start to finish really well compared to other film adaptations. For those who like the story of Gulliver's Travels, this film is the best and I would highly recommend buying it, even if you have not seen it on TV.

bought this item as a teaching tool to compare alongside the book. this adaptation is the closest thing to swift's original string of books. it manages to blend the author's subtle humour with well directed action. most of the acting roles are well-played by artists from both sides of the atlantic. really can't fault it if you are looking to entertain and educate children above the age of ten, or if you are simply looking to enjoy the story for yourself.

This is an epic version of this classic story. My kids favoured it over all other adaptions we have seen. Covers all four destinations of his travels not just two like most.

LOVE THE FILM. I HAVE NO IDEA IF THERE IS ANYTHING MISSING FROM THIS DVD WHICH WAS RELAYED IN THE TV SERIES.