Tales From the Madhouse

Sharing a common Gothic setting of a 19th century British manor house/sanitarium, the eight separate episodes compiled here vary in terms of script quality but each features a strong portrayal of a character confronting demons arising from a failed encounter with Jesus. Claire Bloom manages to overcome a weak script as Pilate's Wife; Peter France, as the Rich Man, helps illustrate the penalties of the "greed is good philosophy"; James Cosmo turns in a solid performance as the Centurion; Tony Robinson does a fine dramatic turn as Judas Iscariot; and Joss Ackland, Jonathan Pryce, Helen Baxendale and Eileen Atkins are admirable as Barabbas, the "bad" thief, a servant girl, and the Widow of Nain, respectively. Literate and provocative, this title may speak to sophisticated audiences, but will be less accessible to mainstream viewers. Mainly intended to stimulate religious discussion, this unusual program should be considered a strong optional purchase for most collections. Aud: H, C, P. (J. Reed)