Excited to find this Today ! Yesterday I stumbled across the 2005 film version of "Mrs Palfrey at the Claremont" starring Joan Plowright & Rupert Friend. I really loved that 2005 verison; it was so moving. Especially one moment when 'Desmond' takes out the guitar and impromtu sings a small piece of "For All We Know". As to this Play For Today version, I am only 13 minutes in and already the acting, the dialouge, the screenplay here is FAR, FAR, FAR more intelligent. I didn't know I was being patted on the head and being treated like a halfwit by the 2005 movie until seeing the first few minutes of this Play For Today by comparison.
1970. I was about 8. I saw this first today - so well done. Today my immediate neighbour (90 next year) has an ambulance at her house. Today I have thought of old age there and here. Where we go when we're old has never been easy. Hopefully I will die before all that. When we are younger we want a bit of peace and wish everyone were out of the house and when they leave older people get lonely.
Such silly British prejudice, being lonely while growing old. That depends entirely on one's attitude and socializing skills. British folks are so used to copy an established archetype, strictly within their class. As a Dutchie, I can't help thinking that tradition in Britain has a petrifying impact on its society. And the whining tone of some old ladies, with a helplessness that is merely pretense. Oh my! Hilarious, some of the actors, pretending to be polite, and interested, meanwhile slithering like salamanders inside. Gossiping behind each other's back, living in a rut, and rarely someone shows up with a mind of their own. For 5 years I've observed the terrible inhibition, in Britain. Seldom a straightforward opinion. It seems that the British fondness of tradition has turned unto itself, becoming a fossilized quality.
I should think that when I was young I enjoyed livelihood and company, while at an older age, 72, I enjoy peace and quiet, on my own, at home. I imagine you failed to make friends in your younger years, living in peace and quiet, leaving you lonely now, as a result of it. All of us have a choice to age gracefully, and participate in activities and events. It needs giving up feeling sorry for oneself.
@@devonseamoor Hi, this play is 50 or so years old and times have changed a little bit 🤣 I wouldn't argue with a lot of what you say, but there are many a folks that never followed the traditionally induced narrative. But yes Britain, if there is such a place anymore, has got some problems. 🤣😂🤣😂 Regards ✌♥️🇬🇧🤣😂🤣
@@soniavadnjal7553 Just an interpretation based on this play. Tragic if you are alone, broke and fragile. Tragic if you have nothing to look forward to and have money. Life is tragic!? Better not to have been born at all, then? That is why commuity is so important. Got to have something to look forward to.
I too am living this story, having seen this play on tv 50 years ago. A nasty bout of flu over Christmas has left me with peripheral neuropathy, the hospital being a little too keen not to have me taking up a bed, so now I’m home about to find out if I can manage to keep my independence. I’m certainly going to try.
Simply heartwrenching. Oh how I adored the character, Mrs Palfrey ( Dame Celia Johnson). What a splendid actress. And as for her 'grandson', well, he is quite delightful. Their touching 'story within a story' had me mesmerised. I enjoyed every moment of this 'Play For The Day' and must say a huge Thank You for sharing it with us. 1973 was a long, long time ago and perhaps there are no places like The Claremount now-a-day's, however human nature never changes. I thought it so touching that the character, Mrs Palfrey, should latch on to the idea that a total stranger ought to become her stand -in grandson. I have had the odd burst of laughter during this play but I've spent more time admiring the script and the acting from the leading players - Grand-mama and Grandson. I didn't want this play to end in the way it did, but as they say, all good things must end. To think that Dame Celia Johnson's film with the wonderful Trevor Howard (Brief Encounter - 1945) was my first introduction to her, golly, it has been a magical journey, for her, over the years. Thank you for sharing this production here on TH-cam. It has entertained me on a rather cold and windy Saturday evening. I must now have a browse through your Play For The Day library and see what else jumps out at me. I trust that I shall have to buy some more Kleenex to mop up my tears! I've just noticed that you downloaded this 11 months ago - November 2022. It has been viewed here 110,000 times! Good gracious. Quite a staggering amount of views. Thanks again for the entertainment. Splendid. I've decided to Subscribe to your channel seeing that you have quite a brilliant library, and, of course, very good taste!
This is a wonderful realisation of the great novel by Elizabeth Taylor. Her observations on human nature are perceptive and brutally honest. She should have had more recognition in her life time. Maybe she was ahead of her time in some ways.
One watches, and sympathises, and realises a similar fate may lie ahead for oneself. Celia Johnson has always been a huge favourite. Thank you for reminding us how genteel life used to be, and how age can rob one of all happiness.
So glad I found this, nothing can beat quality British drama. I did find the subject matter sad, especially the ending. But that's not a reflection on the quality of this rare and memorable episode...💐💐
I search all the time for 'Play for Today' on tv, but seldom find anything. I found Alan Bennett's 'Sunset across the Bay' the other day. Very enjoyable.
I'm glad we don't have it today, it would be butchered by political correctness and virtue signalling writers, it's great to look back on these untouched gems of television that reflect a different age
Thought Celia didn't act later in life and so pleased to have come across this movie, Brief Encounter is one of my favourites that I see again at least once a year.
Don't panic! I am in my eighties now and make sure I steer clear of imagining my dotage. I received my BA and Masters in my seventies, so all is not lost. I believe Judy Dench is in her late eighties and still working and she is not the only one, I imagine.
@@pathopewell1814 Yes, I agree, I'm 62, but I think in terms of life and living, enjoying being curious and learning new things not looking towards a rocking chair and knitting and "waiting for God" because that's when you stop living/being part of life and finding joy in being out in the world, meeting people and watching nature. Long may you enjoy life and living, I know I intend to.🌹
I first saw this on TV way back in 1973 and greatly enjoyed it. Have spent the last 50 years hoping I might see it again. Saw another version several years ago and was disappointed. Thank you for uploading this; Celia Johnson is Mrs Palfrey.
YES! I believe I saw some of this when I lived in England in the early 80s. I just can't believe I'm seeing this again now! And I couldn't remember what it was called to look it up. Spectacular! British TV is my favorite, especially Play For Today.
My mum would have loved this, she was a great fan of Play for Today, and Wordsworth's "Daffodils" was one of her favourite poems. An unusually clear picture for 1973, many thanks for the upload
@@executivedecision6141 I suppose what I meant to say is that most of the shows and plays that are uploaded to youtube from the 70s have a poor picture quality, thanks again
@@kingofdubb2133 It depends on the source. If they're off-air in recent years or from DVD they look fine. But if they're from VHS tapes, any kind of quality if possible.
Being 66 myself I wasn't sure I could bare this, but since it was British I went ahead. It was lovely, and I highly recommend it to anyone who likes profiles of personalities. Pour a glass of wine, or do what I did, pottered in the kitchen by myself making dinner.
Lovely time spent with Mrs. Palfrey et al at the Claremont. I am pleased her grandson- of-choice shared Coleridge's superb poem before she died. Thank you from Hawai'i❤️.
@@trevormcgaughran9351 My dear husband's favourite poem. I recited it to him as he died a cruel death from Parkinson's & dementia here at our wretched nursing home. Played Beethoven's Ode to Joy. I don't know if he could hear or not. Growing old is not for the faint of heart. Just glad he wasn't left to face death alone.
Thank you, you're very kind. I tried but I don't know. The last words he spoke to me were 'This place has broken my spirit. How could you abandon me here for all these years?' Yes, he had dementia (& bipolar disorder) but I should have tried harder to move us to a better place. Now I'm in a different but equally dysfunctional home in another city, Toronto. My room is infested with cockroaches. I found them crawling out of his ashes. The shock gave me a TIA. My punishment, I guess. I think Abraham Lincoln said something like 'Sir, with all the cares upon my shoulders, if I did not laugh I should cry.' I do a bit of both.@@LH-ot5rk
Many of us who were young in the 1970s when this was made are of a similar age now and living like this and in a time and world 2024 we thought we would never see or experience ,a lot are alone in rooms with computers but detached as everything has closed down ,even the young are suffering more loneliness depression mental disorders etc /shocking what's happened /great drama sad x
So true, I can’t believe I’m nearly her age now. Rewatching it I note the added sadness of her going there alone, no friend or relative to be with her to offer some comfort in her situation.
This was like finding treasure. Trapped in her class Mrs Palfry would not go to a pub or enjoy a meal on her own at the Savoy, just not acceptable for a lady of that period. Such a small life left to her but developed by the author into a meaningful one. So gently played by Cecelia Johnson and cast. So much horror in old age and loneliness for so many. Brenda
I've reached 70 now & in the early 1970s in my late teens I thought if I died at 70 I couldn't complain & here I am, alone, no family or friends. We just are not catered for now. If I died in my house I would lay here for months. Hey ho.
Thank you so much for the upload. I love these play for today’s. I wish they would come out DVD. I would love them so much. I live in the US and I am addicted to British television!
In NZ, these plays were played on telly on Sunday evenings which I always used to think, that watching them, was the perfect ending to the weekend. These were the last days, the 70's to 80's, when the BBC produced excellent programmes before they became politically correct. So grateful to the people who put these on-line.
It’s sad how Rising Damp for instance is now frowned upon in spite of the joke being on stupid Rigsby - he believing he’s smarter than his tenants particularly Phillip fooling him that he was an African prince etc. The audience or public are treated as if they’re stupid nowadays . I may be wrong but I believe that Warren Mitchell whom played Alf Garnett in Till Deaf us do Part moved out of Britain after being constantly hassled for being a racist whilst his character was considered ridiculous & nasty enough even in those days by anyone with half a brain !
@@minkgin3370 I can't think of a better way of telling a story about how family isn't always related by blood, or how your soul mate might not be your age or a romance, but it's good to meet them in many ways.
I saw this film with Joan Plowright as Mrs Palfrey, great film. The name Claremont resonated as I grew up in the suburb of Claremont in Perth. I love these gentle olde worlde characters and slower pace.
A magnificent play a real pleasure to see and Celia Johnson never fails to get me hooked on every performance i have seen her appear in. This was stunning.
I would have understood this in 1973, I was only 4. But I understand it now. My mother in law was gone quite frail the last years of her life. I'd bring her to mass on Sunday's, my husband her son would go over to her house every night and watch a few programmes with her. We miss her now so much, when they are gone, it leaves a space. It's really important to include elderly because you will be that person one day. I wonder why the elderly ladies had no pet dogs.☘️
I had an experience like this as a young English teacher in Japan with a much older but very well preserved and kind Japanese woman. It was really strange at times, I kept thinking "if you were 30 years younger I'd ask you to marry me!"... It's sad how time separates people of different generations who might otherwise have been very happy together.
I remember seeing this as I quickly flicked through all Three channels incase I missed something interesting before turning off for bed. I loved these 70s plays, thought provoking stories. It's great to see it again in my mid 50s Thank you.
Right from the start, I knew I was going to like this, then as I was in for about 10 minutes, I realized that I had seen the earlier version out in 2005. This version has more character, love the clothes and decor and the characters felt so real.
The friendship shared with the one who really mattered is what really mattered till the very end of living.. something that was cherished by both.. Elizabeth Taylor who wrote this gave a perspective that was sensitive and of equal portion to both Mrs Palfrey and her faux grandson ❤
Enjoyed this a lot. Very touching and heartwarming even though there's a sad undercurrent. Celia Johnson had beauty and elegance. Played the character perfectly. It reminded me at times of the play Separate Tables. I found this accidentally when doing the TH-cam equivalent of channel surfing. If anyone can recommend any other similar plays, please do. ❤
I doubt whether viewers today could cope with an understated, slow-moving and intricate play lasting one hour and twenty-four minutes. It captured very well the faded grandeur of a hotel paying its way as a genteel home for widows and a rare widower but not quite a nursing home. I think Mr Osmont stole the show with his proposal but Celia Johnson held it together with her sad but graceful performance.
What a wonderful piece of television. When I was younger, I became friends with a lady in her 90s who, though a little bit shaky on her feet, had an intellect as sharp as a tack. She was absolutely convinced in the existence of a supreme being (God, if you like) and she'd patiently sit and listen to my doubts without ever criticising. When she did pass away, I wasn't sad for her as she was actually looking forward to doing so. I did then, and still do, envy her her faith and absolute certainty which must be a great comfort as one grows old.
She had a better relationship & more things in common with her pretend grandson than her real one. I was so glad that he paid her back, I was a bit worried when he asked her for the loan - I thought that he would take advantage of her.
It's so good to see that there are still roles for actors as they age. A poignant play made all the more so by my being 81 and, despite still active and healthy, having to come to terms with my mortality. It does, however, harden my resolve to avoid being shunted off to an Aged Care Facility! BTW Not THAT Elizabeth Taylor
When I was a tradesman I always tried to treat old folks as people rather than old people but the downside was by charming them too much could lead to time being consumed which I couldn’t afford - but rather that than the brusque treatment many co workers dished out . 👍
I didn't think it was depressing, rather uplifting. I'm also watching a movie on youtube made in 1987 called "Escape from Sobibor" a true story of how a group of Jewish prisoners organised and successfully executed a mass escape from a Nazi Death camp in eastern Poland, it is so heavy and depressing that I can only watch a little at a time!
TRULY DELIGHTFUL AND SO REALISTIC THE SETTING WAS WONDERFUL THEY COULD NOT AND WOULD NOT ACHIEVE THE PERFECT CAMEO TODAY IT HAS A TIMELESS QUALITY AN ABSOLUTE GEM THE ENDING WAS SO REAL THE UNCARING AND INCONVENIENCED FAMILY WHO HAD NO UBDERSTANDING AND WERE TOO BUSY TO bother TURN UP IN DISMISSIVE MOOD THE PRETEND GRANDSON was kind and put on a good act TGEN AFTER disappointing GRANDMOTHER came good at THE END AND COMFORTED HER VERY LAST MOMENT as he said HE NEEDED HER IN FACT THEY NEEDED EACHOTHER their real relatives FOR BOTH OF THEM WERE alien to their SOULS
Excited to find this Today ! Yesterday I stumbled across the 2005 film version of "Mrs Palfrey at the Claremont" starring Joan Plowright & Rupert Friend. I really loved that 2005 verison; it was so moving. Especially one moment when 'Desmond' takes out the guitar and impromtu sings a small piece of "For All We Know". As to this Play For Today version, I am only 13 minutes in and already the acting, the dialouge, the screenplay here is FAR, FAR, FAR more intelligent. I didn't know I was being patted on the head and being treated like a halfwit by the 2005 movie until seeing the first few minutes of this Play For Today by comparison.
People speak about blood ties but the ties of the heart, kindness, compassion, are far more precious, they transform you.
So very true❤️
1970. I was about 8. I saw this first today - so well done. Today my immediate neighbour (90 next year) has an ambulance at her house. Today I have thought of old age there and here. Where we go when we're old has never been easy. Hopefully I will die before all that. When we are younger we want a bit of peace and wish everyone were out of the house and when they leave older people get lonely.
Such silly British prejudice, being lonely while growing old. That depends entirely on one's attitude and socializing skills. British folks are so used to copy an established archetype, strictly within their class.
As a Dutchie, I can't help thinking that tradition in Britain has a petrifying impact on its society.
And the whining tone of some old ladies, with a helplessness that is merely pretense. Oh my!
Hilarious, some of the actors, pretending to be polite, and interested, meanwhile slithering like salamanders inside.
Gossiping behind each other's back, living in a rut, and rarely someone shows up with a mind of their own.
For 5 years I've observed the terrible inhibition, in Britain. Seldom a straightforward opinion.
It seems that the British fondness of tradition has turned unto itself, becoming a fossilized quality.
I should think that when I was young I enjoyed livelihood and company, while at an older age, 72, I enjoy peace and quiet, on my own, at home.
I imagine you failed to make friends in your younger years, living in peace and quiet, leaving you lonely now, as a result of it.
All of us have a choice to age gracefully, and participate in activities and events. It needs giving up feeling sorry for oneself.
@@devonseamoor
Hi, this play is 50 or so years old and times have changed a little bit 🤣
I wouldn't argue with a lot of what you say, but there are many a folks that never followed the traditionally induced narrative. But yes Britain, if there is such a place anymore, has got some problems. 🤣😂🤣😂
Regards ✌♥️🇬🇧🤣😂🤣
@@devonseamoorHow rude!
I think I saw this about thirty years ago. Such a good story, with a tear at the end. Now I'm living this story.
Annie bodyhome, a lovely, if sad story. Beautifully acted, as I find most British productions are.
And yes, I too am now "living this story."
@@aileen694 We ought to get together and form a club - the club of old poets, or something like that. How tragic life can be. So near and yet, so far.
@@carolleenkelmann4751 Is old age tragic? Not necessarily. It's just life.
@@soniavadnjal7553 Just an interpretation based on this play. Tragic if you are alone, broke and fragile. Tragic if you have nothing to look forward to and have money. Life is tragic!? Better not to have been born at all, then? That is why commuity is so important. Got to have something to look forward to.
I too am living this story, having seen this play on tv 50 years ago. A nasty bout of flu over Christmas has left me with peripheral neuropathy, the hospital being a little too keen not to have me taking up a bed, so now I’m home about to find out if I can manage to keep my independence. I’m certainly going to try.
Simply heartwrenching. Oh how I adored the character, Mrs Palfrey ( Dame Celia Johnson). What a splendid actress. And as for her 'grandson', well, he is quite delightful. Their touching 'story within a story' had me mesmerised. I enjoyed every moment of this 'Play For The Day' and must say a huge Thank You for sharing it with us. 1973 was a long, long time ago and perhaps there are no places like The Claremount now-a-day's, however human nature never changes. I thought it so touching that the character, Mrs Palfrey, should latch on to the idea that a total stranger ought to become her stand -in grandson. I have had the odd burst of laughter during this play but I've spent more time admiring the script and the acting from the leading players - Grand-mama and Grandson. I didn't want this play to end in the way it did, but as they say, all good things must end. To think that Dame Celia Johnson's film with the wonderful Trevor Howard (Brief Encounter - 1945) was my first introduction to her, golly, it has been a magical journey, for her, over the years. Thank you for sharing this production here on TH-cam. It has entertained me on a rather cold and windy Saturday evening. I must now have a browse through your Play For The Day library and see what else jumps out at me. I trust that I shall have to buy some more Kleenex to mop up my tears!
I've just noticed that you downloaded this 11 months ago - November 2022. It has been viewed here 110,000 times! Good gracious. Quite a staggering amount of views.
Thanks again for the entertainment. Splendid. I've decided to Subscribe to your channel seeing that you have quite a brilliant library, and, of course, very good taste!
I have always valued the friendship of elders, the feeling of devotion. Perhaps because I miss my grandmothers so.
The movie on prime is fantastic too. Joan Plowright and Rupert Friend.
Haven't seen this in years. One of my favourite novels. What a standard of excellence we lived with once!
This is a wonderful realisation of the great novel by Elizabeth Taylor. Her observations on human nature are perceptive and brutally honest. She should have had more recognition in her life time. Maybe she was ahead of her time in some ways.
Yeah....... British shows & movies win.....hands down.
Thank you for sharing 👍
☮️💖🌻
Compelling and gentle sort of film, about life, and where love is not always where you expect to find or receive it. Superb cast and script.
I have been looking for this for years & years. Celia's portrayal of Mrs Palfrey was perfect and took me back to a more gentle age. Thanks.
1❤
Mrs palfrey at the Claremont I have read the book the film is funny and reminds me of a hotel I stayed at by the sea😊
Celia Johnson from Brilliant films like This Happy Breed and a Brief Encounter plus so many more. 👍
Laura in this and in Brief Encounter.
love her so. Great actress
I will watch them ,thank you.
One watches, and sympathises, and realises a similar fate may lie ahead for oneself. Celia Johnson has always been a huge favourite. Thank you for reminding us how genteel life used to be, and how age can rob one of all happiness.
So glad I found this, nothing can beat quality British drama. I did find the subject matter sad, especially the ending. But that's not a reflection on the quality of this rare and memorable episode...💐💐
The play's the thing. Such a poignant story. I can't help wishing for a happier end. Old age is not for the faint of heart.
It actually was a happy ending for Mrs. Palfrey. She died peacefully; content that someone who she TRULY CARED about, also CARED about her.
Everyone dies everyone
The circle of Life
Growing old is not for sissies: Betty Davis ❤
Can't beat good British Old Fashioned Drama. I love all the old black and white films too.
I do not like being old but I am so very grateful to have lived through what I consider the best times in English History.
A lovely story.. I've also seen the movie with Joan Plowright and Rupert Friend.. Both versions have their charm..
I wish we still had this calibre of entertainment on TV, I'd never have got rid of the bl...y thing! XXX
I search all the time for 'Play for Today' on tv, but seldom find anything. I found Alan Bennett's 'Sunset across the Bay' the other day. Very enjoyable.
@@pathopewell1814 Thanks Hun. X
@@pathopewell1814 Have you seen Love at first sight? Very moving, Phyllida Law and John Hurt, I think.
I'm glad we don't have it today, it would be butchered by political correctness and virtue signalling writers, it's great to look back on these untouched gems of television that reflect a different age
Original air date was 1973 I love these tv shows from the 70s and early 80s that take me back in time to my younger days, Thanks for posting.
Unlikely to take you back to your OLDER days.
Excellent story and marvellous cast. Celia Johnson was superb. Thank you for sharing.
Good lord. Celia Johnson, who starred in that classic, Brief Encounter. Stunning.
My God, I knew she looked familiar. Still a beauty. Would you ever forget her getting something in her eye in "Brief Encounter" that's how to act.
Thought Celia didn't act later in life and so pleased to have come across this movie, Brief Encounter is one of my favourites that I see again at least once a year.
One of my favourite English movies is Brief encounter. I love older English movies. Rebecca is brilliant as well the black and white movie.
@@bejoyful she is simply marvelous in Brief Encounter such a brilliant movie
Another good later role she played (again alongside Trevor Howard) was in the film 'Staying On' (1980) which is available on TH-cam.@@bejoyful
Sad and lovely at the same time. 😢
I had seen this when I younger but now as I am in my 60s I realise like the actors that my end is near and every day is bonus.
Don't panic! I am in my eighties now and make sure I steer clear of imagining my dotage. I received my BA and Masters in my seventies, so all is not lost.
I believe Judy Dench is in her late eighties and still working and she is not the only one, I imagine.
@@pathopewell1814 How inspiring. Lol
@@pathopewell1814 Yes, I agree, I'm 62, but I think in terms of life and living, enjoying being curious and learning new things not looking towards a rocking chair and knitting and "waiting for God" because that's when you stop living/being part of life and finding joy in being out in the world, meeting people and watching nature. Long may you enjoy life and living, I know I intend to.🌹
How depressing. Long time dead lol 😂 you are alive live it
@@gilliankingston8259 Amen. Beautifully put across
I first saw this on TV way back in 1973 and greatly enjoyed it. Have spent the last 50 years hoping I might see it again. Saw another version several years ago and was disappointed. Thank you for uploading this; Celia Johnson is Mrs Palfrey.
I was 13 in 1973 watching this with my grandmother. How time flies ❤️
YES! I believe I saw some of this when I lived in England in the early 80s. I just can't believe I'm seeing this again now! And I couldn't remember what it was called to look it up. Spectacular! British TV is my favorite, especially Play For Today.
Old peoples home for the better off middle class! Well done novel, play and film. 👏
It's sad, honest, but also so gentle.
I love anything that Celia Johnson is in.
She never disappointed.
She was also excellent in "The Dame of Sark".
My mum would have loved this, she was a great fan of Play for Today, and Wordsworth's "Daffodils" was one of her favourite poems. An unusually clear picture for 1973, many thanks for the upload
It's not unusually clear for 1973. This was shot on videotape, and a lot of shows looked that way at the time.
@@executivedecision6141 I suppose what I meant to say is that most of the shows and plays that are uploaded to youtube from the 70s have a poor picture quality, thanks again
@@kingofdubb2133 It depends on the source. If they're off-air in recent years or from DVD they look fine. But if they're from VHS tapes, any kind of quality if possible.
This wee exchange of comments sounds in the manner of the play. I can hear Mrs Palfrey speaking.
It is shite.
Being 66 myself I wasn't sure I could bare this, but since it was British I went ahead. It was lovely, and I highly recommend it to anyone who likes profiles of personalities. Pour a glass of wine, or do what I did, pottered in the kitchen by myself making dinner.
Lovely time spent with Mrs. Palfrey et al at the Claremont. I am pleased her grandson- of-choice shared Coleridge's superb poem before she died.
Thank you from Hawai'i❤️.
It was Wordsworth's poem
Thanks for telling the end !!
@@trevormcgaughran9351 My dear husband's favourite poem. I recited it to him as he died a cruel death from Parkinson's & dementia here at our wretched nursing home. Played Beethoven's Ode to Joy. I don't know if he could hear or not. Growing old is not for the faint of heart. Just glad he wasn't left to face death alone.
@@Claudia-up6hrWhat a blessing you must have been to him.
Thank you, you're very kind. I tried but I don't know. The last words he spoke to me were 'This place has broken my spirit. How could you abandon me here for all these years?' Yes, he had dementia (& bipolar disorder) but I should have tried harder to move us to a better place. Now I'm in a different but equally dysfunctional home in another city, Toronto. My room is infested with cockroaches. I found them crawling out of his ashes. The shock gave me a TIA. My punishment, I guess. I think Abraham Lincoln said something like 'Sir, with all the cares upon my shoulders, if I did not laugh I should cry.' I do a bit of both.@@LH-ot5rk
Many of us who were young in the 1970s when this was made are of a similar age now and living like this and in a time and world 2024 we thought we would never see or experience ,a lot are alone in rooms with computers but detached as everything has closed down ,even the young are suffering more loneliness depression mental disorders etc /shocking what's happened /great drama sad x
So true, I can’t believe I’m nearly her age now. Rewatching it I note the added sadness of her going there alone, no friend or relative to be with her to offer some comfort in her situation.
I think the chap in the photo in her room played her husband in Brief Encounter. a nice touch.
My first time seeing Celia Johnson at this age but I'd recognise her anywhere.
Thanks uploader.
Me too.
What a wonderful cast.
This was like finding treasure. Trapped in her class Mrs Palfry would not go to a pub or enjoy a meal on her own at the Savoy, just not acceptable for a lady of that period. Such a small life left to her but developed by the author into a meaningful one. So gently played by Cecelia Johnson and cast. So much horror in old age and loneliness for so many. Brenda
Better there than the East End equivalent
I've reached 70 now & in the early 1970s in my late teens I thought if I died at 70 I couldn't complain & here I am, alone, no family or friends. We just are not catered for now. If I died in my house I would lay here for months. Hey ho.
Horrible seedy room she has to live in. More 1950’s than 70’s.
Thank you so much for the upload. I love these play for today’s. I wish they would come out DVD. I would love them so much. I live in the US and I am addicted to British television!
In NZ, these plays were played on telly on Sunday evenings which I always used to think, that watching them, was the perfect ending to the weekend. These were the last days, the 70's to 80's, when the BBC produced excellent programmes before they became politically correct. So grateful to the people who put these on-line.
It’s sad how Rising Damp for instance is now frowned upon in spite of the joke being on stupid Rigsby - he believing he’s smarter than his tenants particularly Phillip fooling him that he was an African prince etc. The audience or public are treated as if they’re stupid nowadays . I may be wrong but I believe that Warren Mitchell whom played Alf Garnett in Till Deaf us do Part moved out of Britain after being constantly hassled for being a racist whilst his character was considered ridiculous & nasty enough even in those days by anyone with half a brain !
What a wonderful cast!
Yes, they were. A sad little tale though, but very well acted.
@@minkgin3370 I can't think of a better way of telling a story about how family isn't always related by blood, or how your soul mate might not be your age or a romance, but it's good to meet them in many ways.
I saw this film with Joan Plowright as Mrs Palfrey, great film. The name Claremont resonated as I grew up in the suburb of Claremont in Perth.
I love these gentle olde worlde characters and slower pace.
Old age I am in my 60s now scares me terribly brilliant play and actors
I saw the remake of this with Joan Plowright in Celia Johnson's role. Delightful, and moving!
A magnificent play a real pleasure to see and Celia Johnson never fails to get me hooked on every performance i have seen her appear in. This was stunning.
What a gem! With the awesome Celia Johnson! Wonderful!! 😁
Thank you. Most entertaining ❤❤❤. Kind and caring young man who willingly assumed to be her grandson on her request❤
This is wonderful. Thank you so much
Red this modern classic last year. Loved it. Celia Johnson has always been a favourite of mine, so discovering this was a special joy.
Hecky pecky, the intro music has transported me back to the 1970s as a child. Think this program came on as I was ordered off to bed !
I'm thirty minutes in and I can't stop watching it.
I would have understood this in 1973, I was only 4. But I understand it now. My mother in law was gone quite frail the last years of her life. I'd bring her to mass on Sunday's, my husband her son would go over to her house every night and watch a few programmes with her. We miss her now so much, when they are gone, it leaves a space. It's really important to include elderly because you will be that person one day. I wonder why the elderly ladies had no pet dogs.☘️
So pleased you managed to take her to Mass. We were at Mass today, the Feast Day of our Lady's Immaculate Conception, 8th December.
I had an experience like this as a young English teacher in Japan with a much older but very well preserved and kind Japanese woman. It was really strange at times, I kept thinking "if you were 30 years younger I'd ask you to marry me!"... It's sad how time separates people of different generations who might otherwise have been very happy together.
Absolutely wonderful, thank you so much for sharing ❤
I have a dvd of this play starting Joan Plowright & Rupert Friend & Anna Massey. Some other good actors. I enjoyed it.
I love that version
I remember seeing this as I quickly flicked through all Three channels incase I missed something interesting before turning off for bed.
I loved these 70s plays, thought provoking stories.
It's great to see it again in my mid 50s
Thank you.
A beautiful and wonderful story
Right from the start, I knew I was going to like this, then as I was in for about 10 minutes, I realized that I had seen the earlier version out in 2005. This version has more character, love the clothes and decor and the characters felt so real.
The friendship shared with the one who really mattered is what really mattered till the very end of living.. something that was cherished by both.. Elizabeth Taylor who wrote this gave a perspective that was sensitive and of equal portion to both Mrs Palfrey and her faux grandson ❤
A very good play and well done by the cast, Celia Johnson, a wonderful actress.
Enjoyed this a lot. Very touching and heartwarming even though there's a sad undercurrent. Celia Johnson had beauty and elegance. Played the character perfectly. It reminded me at times of the play Separate Tables. I found this accidentally when doing the TH-cam equivalent of channel surfing. If anyone can recommend any other similar plays, please do. ❤
th-cam.com/video/VkBofnZfppQ/w-d-xo.htmlsi=qeiSNis0rvl9fBgU
Love this one; really covers so many issues with aging & loneliness. Also agree that blood ties aren't necessarily the closest bonds.
I read the novel years ago and enjoyed it very much. This play passed me by in my callow youth but it's absolutely wonderful. Thanks so much.
Loved the movie, loved this!
Such a beautiful and wonderful play. Extremely well acted. I absolutely loved it. Well worth watching. Thanks for sharing this.
I doubt whether viewers today could cope with an understated, slow-moving and intricate play lasting one hour and twenty-four minutes. It captured very well the faded grandeur of a hotel paying its way as a genteel home for widows and a rare widower but not quite a nursing home. I think Mr Osmont stole the show with his proposal but Celia Johnson held it together with her sad but graceful performance.
What a wonderful piece of television. When I was younger, I became friends with a lady in her 90s who, though a little bit shaky on her feet, had an intellect as sharp as a tack. She was absolutely convinced in the existence of a supreme being (God, if you like) and she'd patiently sit and listen to my doubts without ever criticising. When she did pass away, I wasn't sad for her as she was actually looking forward to doing so. I did then, and still do, envy her her faith and absolute certainty which must be a great comfort as one grows old.
Beautiful but sad. I’m impressed thought… Celia Johnson was so classy it could make you weep
Just wonderful, moving and funny.
She had a better relationship & more things in common with her pretend grandson than her real one. I was so glad that he paid her back, I was a bit worried when he asked her for the loan - I thought that he would take advantage of her.
It's so good to see that there are still roles for actors as they age.
A poignant play made all the more so by my being 81 and, despite still active and healthy, having to come to terms with my mortality.
It does, however, harden my resolve to avoid being shunted off to an Aged Care Facility!
BTW Not THAT Elizabeth Taylor
Thank you for uploading. I loved the film version with Dame Joan Plowwright. What a treat!
Oops, Kelley. Check her surname!
At the start, I was expecting Basil Fawlty to leap out when she dinged the bell - "YES! What now!..
Such a sad and wonderful story…
Very nice! Thank you for all the uploads.
A brilliant play definately a classic story
Anyone else miss these days ..? 😢
Have been looking for this forever! Thank you!
It is an outstanding performance of this play. 👏
Wonderful, I enjoyed this very much. Thank you.
SO GLAD I WATCHED THIS, WHAT AN UNEXPECTED GEM- THANKS FOR THE UPLOAD
I loved this so much xx
This was very precious. Many thanks for sharing it with us.
Wonderful thank you x
LOVE ! LOVE ! LOVE ! Celia Johnson
85 minutes of viewing pleasure - the storyline - the cast - the unrivaled Celia Johnson - EVERY SINGLE SECOND OF IT WAS A JOY
When I was a tradesman I always tried to treat old folks as people rather than old people but the downside was by charming them too much could lead to time being consumed which I couldn’t afford - but rather that than the brusque treatment many co workers dished out . 👍
Elizabeth Taylor (the author not the actress) was a brilliant writer.
Thanks for clearing that up, l was so confused with the comments mentioning that this was written by Elizabeth Taylor.
@@TF80s She said she would get fan mail asking for pictures of her in a bikini, but had to reply that she did not own one.
I have never read this book, even though I thought I was well read, I think we overlook many authors
Thank you for posting. Excellent acting though a very depressing subject.
I didn't think it was depressing, rather uplifting. I'm also watching a movie on youtube made in 1987 called "Escape from Sobibor" a true story of how a group of Jewish prisoners organised and successfully executed a mass escape from a Nazi Death camp in eastern Poland, it is so heavy and depressing that I can only watch a little at a time!
Thank you for posting this drama which I last saw so many years ago.
I really enjoyed this, thank you
What a good play. Thank you for uploading this. PC. 22. 03. 2023.
Thoughtful sensitive play. Thank you.
Celia Johnson - what more do you want!
Nothing better than Celia Johnson
I agree Celia Johnson a perfect choice
Absolutely wonderful, I have never seen this before... it makes me think.....
Amazing acting really touching and terrific to see Cynthia Johnson 🌹❤️
The film with Joan Plowright was really decent too. Loved it
“Em ha grendson”. Gosh, the way people talked in television plays back then!
The late Queen's accent!
@@stellayates1594 He overplayed it though, to sound like the prat he was meant to be.
TRULY DELIGHTFUL AND SO REALISTIC THE SETTING WAS WONDERFUL THEY COULD NOT AND WOULD NOT ACHIEVE THE PERFECT CAMEO TODAY IT HAS A TIMELESS QUALITY AN ABSOLUTE GEM THE ENDING WAS SO REAL THE UNCARING AND INCONVENIENCED FAMILY WHO HAD NO UBDERSTANDING AND WERE TOO BUSY TO bother TURN UP IN DISMISSIVE MOOD THE PRETEND GRANDSON was kind and put on a good act TGEN AFTER disappointing GRANDMOTHER came good at THE END AND COMFORTED HER VERY LAST MOMENT as he said HE NEEDED HER IN FACT THEY NEEDED EACHOTHER their real relatives FOR BOTH OF THEM WERE alien to their SOULS
A beautiful vingette.... Ahh, the days when human stories as this were commissioned for the small screen 💟
The great Celia Johnson. And the Launderette girl was hilarious 😂
Just great. Thanks.
Piquant, drab...epitomizing the reduced, post-imperial age. Well acted and produced. Thank you.
So beautiful I have no words