The Amazing Mr Blunden (DVD 2003)

I just had to write a review of this, one of my favourite films, and one that gave me my ID, in fact was the very reason I found eBay. I had remembered this film ever since seeing it as a child, and it was special to me even then as it was one of the first books I ever read, then titled 'The Ghosts' by Antonia Barber.
The plot is actually quite complicated for what is a childrens film, but it is shot beautifully, and is often mistaken for the Railway Children, having had the same director and producer. The story revolves around two children sent with their mother to look after a derelict old manor house in the country. Their benefactor who found them this much needed job is an old and mysterious solicitor, Mr Blunden. While at the house they are warned about possibly seeing ghosts, and eventually meet two younger children that are the cause. They are not exactly ghosts, but rather former residents of the manor house who have travelled in time, seeking help to prevent their deaths in a fire set by their evil stepmother. Mr Blunden it turns out is actually three different people, but I'll let the film explain that bit.
If it all sounds complex, it really isn't when watching, and as it's set in the early nineteen hundreds and eighteen hundreds, it's a costume drama that hasn't aged at all since it was made. It has some recognizable stars, including a young Rosalinde Landor, Lawrence Naismith, Lynn Fredrick, and the wonderful Diana Dors, who is simply the best as the evil Mrs Wickens.
For me, it is one of those rare films that is both nostalgic and happy. It has some very good special effects, especially the fire scenes, and you care about the characters. Younger children might need someone to sit with them through it, but anyone who likes a script that keeps your attention, some good acting, and a nice warm feeling at the end, will enjoy this immensely.

This film has special childhood memories for me and I was delighted to be able to buy it on DVD. I first saw it as an old reel-to-reel in my Junior School hall as a special end of term treat and I've never forgotten it. It's a good family film (cert U) with strong characters, dramatic content and a powerful message about good and evil. I love it!