Four With Betjeman - Victorian Architects and Architecture [DVD]

J B enthralls us, drawing us in, with his enthusiasm - typical of the man.If you are interested in architecture (which doesn't 'date') enjoy an expert view, from The Man with a unique style...Thanks, BBC: at last on DVD.

A wonderful voie from the English past.

I like Sir JB's style and really enjoyed this DVD

I brought this DVD as I like the late John Betjeman's style he I think is very informative and enlightening without being to academic he conveys to the non-expert like myself his knowledge of Victorian Architects and Architecture. I have a great interest in History especially the Victorian era. The DVD covers some of the most well know Architects and the buildings they designed in that period of British History. A few of the people featured I have very little knowledge of so I have learnt more about them. Yes I would recommend this DVD to anyone interested in these subjects.

This exploration of Church Architects is a must for all those, like myself, who can't pass a country church without wanting to go in. They generally seem to be locked these days, so generally it's a mooch around the graveyard that has to suffice.. The film itself , by its grainy, 'black and whiteness' , has become a period piece, but the word pictures that Betjeman paints haven't. He exudes this 'Wnnie the Pooh' persona which masks a real knowledge of, and passion for, church architecture. The ability to 'look' at church interiors is, in this set of portraits, developed into a deeper 'seeing' of what is actually there, and for us 'rank' amateurs, his guidance illuminates our view, in such a straightforward way. There is so much that we still need to understand, and preserve, in our heritage, that this can, almost, be seen as a message from John, from beyond the grave. His message still has resonance.

Betjeman's review of the churches was unusual on occasion using his own terminology making his approach more homespunand individualistic. A gem.

The is obviously an old recording but extremely good content & John Betjeman so enjoyable to listen to. His easy conversational manner & obvious love of the topic came through excellently. Made me search for more of his work on DVD.

Sir J at his best ... a lively candidness mixing architectural vocabulary with that which the man on the Clapham omnibus can understand. Brilliance is being able to explain the complex in simple terms and Sir J does this so naturally. Mind you, this isn't one for the chavs.