Tales from Hoffnung / Ruddigore

For the first time ever on DVD, the animated Tales from Hoffnung and Ruddigore by Halas & Batchelor are available on Blue Dolphin DVD. Steeped in music, magic and mystery, Tales from Hoffnung and Ruddigore are spectacular films from Britain s first animation studio: the legendary Halas & Batchelor, who are behind such fine animations as Animal Farm and Dilemma. Based on the weird and wonderful world of Gerard Hoffnung and the Gilbert and Sullivan classic, Tales from Hoffnung and Ruddigore will delight viewers and music lovers everywhere. Tales from Hoffnung is a collection of seven enchanting stories which mix the original drawings of the hugely entertaining Gerard Hoffnung with the lively music of Francis Chagrin. Here in this spectacular, musical world of Hoffnung's 'silly symphonies', instruments can spring to life and mayhem always ensues. Tales from Hoffnung blends vibrant fantasies with a wonderful score that will inspire young musicians everywhere. Additional footage includes Tony Guy explaining how he animated Bords, Bees and Storks with Peter Sellers doing the voices. Ruddigore - A Gilbert and Sullivan score is brought to life in animation for the first time in this version of their classic Operetta Ruddigore, which features the musical talents of the acclaimed D Oyle Carte Opera and the London Philharmonic Orchestra. Here the Barons of Ruddigore have been struck by a hereditary curse which condemns them to committing a crime everyday or face a painful death. The supernatural, revenge and love further complicate a long-lost heir's attempts to escape his destiny. Bonus material includes the trailer to the original 1964 Ruddigore release and Vivien Halas and animator Tony Guy in conversation. Tales from Hoffnung and Ruddigore have been digitally restored, and Professor of Animation Studies, film critic and broadcaster Paul Wells introduces and reviews the films. This charming collection is a hugely entertaining way to introduce children to classical music and its warmth and humour can be enjoyed by people of all ages.