“Portrait” interview handled well

Press, Volume CXIV, Issue 33455, 9 February 1974, Page 5

“Portrait” interview handled well

Sir Kenneth Gresson’s armchair chat with Rodney Bryant on Thursday nigh; was as agreeable a programme in the profile pattern as could be desired.

Admittedly the familiarity of both the interviewer and his subject heightened the appeal of "Portrait”, but as a study of a great man’s life and attitudes, it was far more satisfying than most of the “On Reflection” efforts. Sir Kenneth tended to minimise some of his

achievements, but in spite of his modesty, the stature of the man gradually emerged through his carefully calculated answers — an attribute which helped to make him such a respected member of the Bench. His sense of perspective, his marvellous memory, and his humour ensured the success of the study. However, Mr Bryant’s part must not be overlooked. He had obviously done his homework diligently, and he was in step with Sir Kenneth all the way. It was far from being an easy interview, but he handled it capably, prompting his subject when necessary and at other times being an attentive listener.

Bryant varied his line of questioning intelligently, but was never guilty of the fault committed by some young television interviewers — the neglect of a follow-up question when the preceding answer demands one.

Too often a response from the subject has been met by a deadpan expression from an interviewer, who has then moved mechanically on to the next prepared, but unrelated question. Bryant retrieved Sir Kenneth’s returns of service with aplomb in what was more an exchange of lobs from the baseline than a net-rushing attack.

His contribution to an enjoyable and informative programme was substantial. ‘‘Buggins’ Ermine” probably attracted attention because of its curious title, but once it became clear what it meant, the interest slowly evaporated. This Granada play gave scope for some worthwhile character studies and William Russell, as Mayor Bug-

| gins, Barbara Young, as his wife, and Mary Miller, as I her vivacious sister, brought !conviction to the roles. | As usual with Granada (offerings, the supporting ! players were effective yet (unobtrusive; in this respect, Anne Reid, of “Coronation Street” fame, was excellent as the disproving daughter of a boisterous, beer-swilling father. Splendid as the players were, the vehicle for their talents lacked sufficient horsepower. It was a grey, slow-moving play, geared to the third division, to borrow a phrase from the Mayor. Intense concentration was demanded of the viewer to recognise the fleeting subtleties in the script which

were devised to throw light on family attitudes. The ending left only a sense of frustration — for time badly spent.

Relief, however, was at hand, in the form of another of the “Lazy Acre” tales. This programme never fails to amuse, and with both Milo O’Shea and David Kelly at their wittiest, and Desmond Perry, as the culchie-hating Mr Thunder, emerging as an excellent foil, this story of how to succeed without really trying produced a bright ending to the evening’s viewing. —J. K. B.