House of the Dragon Season Two

Adapted from George R.R. Martin's "Fire & Blood," the series unfolds 200 years prior to the events in "Game of Thrones," narrating the captivating tale of House Targaryen.

The returning cast boasts familiar faces such as Matt Smith, Olivia Cooke, Emma D'Arcy, Eve Best, Steve Toussaint, Fabien Frankel, Ewan Mitchell, Tom Glynn-Carney, Sonoya Mizuno, and Rhys Ifans. Additionally, the ensemble includes the talents of Harry Collett, Bethany Antonia, Phoebe Campbell, Phia Saban, Jefferson Hall, and Matthew Needham.

Welcoming new cast members into the fold are Clinton Liberty portraying Addam of Hull, Jamie Kenna as Ser Alfred Broome, Kieran Bew taking on the role of Hugh, Tom Bennett embodying Ulf, Tom Taylor as Lord Cregan Stark, and Vincent Regan portraying Ser Rickard Thorne. The previously announced new additions for season two feature Abubakar Salim as Alyn of Hull, Gayle Rankin as Alys Rivers, Freddie Fox as Ser Gwayne Hightower, and Simon Russell Beale as Ser Simon Strong.

Season two credits are attributed to the creative forces behind the show: Co-Creator/Executive Producer George R.R. Martin, Co-Creator/Showrunner/Executive Producer Ryan Condal, and Executive Producers Sara Hess, Alan Taylor, Melissa Bernstein, Kevin de la Noy, Loni Peristere, and Vince Gerardis. The series is rooted in George R.R. Martin's "Fire & Blood," promising another season filled with intrigue and drama.

Mog’s Christmas on Channel 4

"Mog's Christmas," a delightful animated adaptation of Judith Kerr's beloved children's classic published by HarperCollins Children's Books, is set to enchant audiences this Christmas on Channel 4. The heartwarming story revolves around the Thomas family—Mr. and Mrs. Thomas and their children, Debbie and Nicky—as they busily prepare for the festive season. Despite the lively presence of two aunts and a cheerful uncle in the household, Mog, the cherished family cat, feels a bit neglected.

As the family brings home a massive Christmas tree, Mog, overwhelmed, seeks refuge by scrambling onto the roof in fear. Despite the family's efforts to coax her down, Mog remains steadfast in her refusal. Little do they know, Mog embarks on a magical night in the snow, experiencing a cat-themed Christmas dream. The lingering question remains: will Mog make it back home in time for Christmas Day?

The stellar voice cast features Adjoa Andoh, Claire Foy, Benedict Cumberbatch, Miriam Margolyes, Maggie Steed, Zawe Ashton, Charlie Higson, Gareth Berliner, Judith Kerr's daughter Tacy Kneale, along with newcomers Amelie Law and Teddy Skelton. The enchanting theme song for "Mog's Christmas," titled "As Long as I Belong," is composed by David Arnold with lyrics by Don Black and beautifully performed by Sophie Ellis-Bextor. Get ready for a heartwarming holiday tale that will captivate audiences of all ages.

COMPETITION: Win All Creatures Great & Small: Series 4 on DVD

All Creatures Great & Small Series Four inc. 2022 Christmas Special will arrive on DVD, alongside All Creatures Great & Small Complete Series One – Four Box set on 11 December 2023 courtesy of Acorn Media International, following its recent transmission on Channel 5.

And to celebrate we have a great competition and a copy of Series 4 on DVD to give away.

Synopsis

THE CHARMING, much-loved All Creatures Great & Small returns for its fourth series of veterinary adventures, romances and life in the sleepy town of Darrowby, Yorkshire, with its rolling fields and colourful community.

 

Based on the popular novels and life of veterinary surgeon and writer James Herriot (aka James Alfred Wight OBE), the first series enchanted the nation, ranking as Channel 5's number-one British drama of all time. Now, the national treasure returns with its highly anticipated fourth series. 

The brand-new series picks up in the Easter of 1940. It’s springtime, Winston Churchill is becoming Prime Minister and there’s much to be glad about with the community coming together more than they have before, despite the war in Europe... 

With Darrowby’s very own Tristan away serving in the Royal Army Veterinary Corps, James (Nicholas Ralph – The Most Reluctant Convert) readily accepts the help of his wife Helen (Rachel Shenton – Hollyoaks) and their caring housekeeper Mrs Hall (Anna Madeley – Deadwater Fell, In Bruges), who are happy to muck in with him and Siegfried (Samuel West – Howards End), to make sure the surgery runs smoothly. However, the practice is forced to bring in some extra hands to help around the place in the shape of two newcomers, the highly efficient bookkeeper Miss Harbottle (Neve McIntosh – Shetland) and studious undergraduate vet student Richard (James Anthony-Rose – Slow Horses, Pennyworth). 

This series also features some wonderful guest stars, including James Bolam MBE (New Tricks), Tony Pitts (Giri/Haji), Paul Copley (Downton Abbey), Cleo Sylvestre MBE (Paddington), Will Thorp (Doctor Who) and Sam Retford (Ackley Bridge).

All Creatures Great and Small should treat themselves to a heart-warming trip to Yorkshire with this enchanting series. This uplifting family favourite is the perfect soul-soother for some winter warmth and why not spread the joy with All Creatures Great & Small Complete Series One – Four Box set, an ideal gift for the festive season.

Buy from Amazon at - https://amzn.to/3Ray9wL

Enter now for a chance to win.

In what year is All Creatures Great & Small: Series 4 set?

Send your name, address and of course the answer to competition365@outlook.com

Quick Terms and conditions

1. Closing date 04-12-23

2. No alternative prize is available

3. When the competition ends as indicated on this page, any and all entries received after this point will not count and emails blacklisted due to not checking this page first.

4. Winners will be chosen randomly and will be informed via email.

5. Entries that come directly from other websites will not be accepted.

CHRISTMAS COMPETITION: Win Doc Martin, Foyle's War, Midsommer Murders and The Good Life Complete

 
Since it is nearly that time of year again, we thought what better treat to offer our readers than to once again run our jumbo Christmas Competition. We decided to choose a mixture of new and classic releases to give away.

If you’re stuck for gifting ideas, Acorn Media International has something for everyone in their outstanding array of binge-worthy Box sets. With over 25 years in the business, Acorn Media continues to blaze a trail in Box set gifting, offering the best entertainment of much-loved TV series that will enthral and entertain for a lifetime.

One lucky winner will win Doc Martin Complete, Foyle's War Complete, Midsommer Murders Series 22 and The Good Life Complete on DVD


Doc Martin

Starting with the arrival of Doctor Martin Ellingham, a respected surgeon from London, in the small ¬ fishing village of Portwenn in Cornwall, this fish out of water soon discovers that small village life can present some very big problems. Get on the wrong side of your receptionist and the world can turn against you. Let that same world know your greatest weakness, and it'll soon be used by those who love you and those who feel less inclined.

This complete collection celebrates the very essence of what has made Doc Martin so special, including every episode since 2004, when the grumpy Doc and the quirky characters of Portwenn started to bring their certain kind of joy to viewers around the world.

Buy from Amazon at - https://amzn.to/3N6Cr75

Foyle's War

This collectable boxed set features every episode of the acclaimed television series, along with a rich array of behind-the-scenes features, cast and crew interviews and so much more.

Michael Kitchen is Detective Chief Superintendent Foyle, a hardworking, policeman in Hastings during the Second World War. Anxious to join the war effort, he has repeatedly had his applications turned down and has returned to the South Coast sidelined and frustrated; but it soon becomes apparent that his detective skills are vitally needed on the Home Front.

Buy from Amazon at - https://amzn.to/3Nbbhfh

Midsomer Murders Series 22

All is not as it seems, and beneath the tranquil surface of village life exists a disturbing and cunning propensity for murder.

Barnaby and Winter investigate an urban myth becoming a murderous reality, a post-operative heart rehabilitation club whose members’ dreams of a second chance at life are cut short, a murder mystery weekend, a twisted scarecrow festival and an amateur dramatics company with deadly secrets.

Buy from Amazon at - https://amzn.to/3T5i1iD

The Good Life

One of the best-loved and best-selling sitcoms ever made: this is The Good Life. On his 40th birthday, Tom Good (Richard Briers) decides that he’s had enough of the rat race and that he and his wife, Barbara (Felicity Kendal), should become self-sufficient. Overnight, they begin to convert their suburban garden into a farm, complete with crops, pigs and chickens, homemade beer and more. But their choice of lifestyle doesn’t exactly fit in with the neighbours… This set features every episode, along with the 1977 Christmas Special and the 1978 Royal Command Performance.

Buy from Amazon at - https://amzn.to/3T0i9Qx

Enter now for a chance to win.

What is the name of the character played by Richard Briers in The Good Life?

Send your name, address and of course the answer to competition365@outlook.com

Quick Terms and conditions
1. Closing date 18-12-23
2. No alternative prize is available
3. When the competition ends as indicated on this page, any and all entries received after this point will not count and emails blacklisted due to not checking this page first.
4. Winners will be chosen randomly and will be informed via email.
5. Entries that come directly from other websites will not be accepted.

Enter for a chance to win STAR TREK: STRANGE NEW WORLDS SEASON 2 on BLU-RAY™!

Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 2 Arrives on DVD, Blu-ray™, and 4K UHD™ December 4

With a certified fresh rating of 97% on Rotten Tomatoes*, Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 2 arrives on DVD, Blu-ray, and 4K UHD on December 4th from Paramount Home Entertainment. 

Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 2 features the first ever “Star Trek” musical episode, a crossover episode with Star Trek: Lower Decks, and more than 2 hours of special features, including behind-the-scenes featurettes and never-before-seen deleted, extended, and alternate scenes.

The cast includes Anson Mount (Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, Safe) as Captain Christopher Pike, Ethan Peck (In Time, The Sorcerer’s Apprentice) as Science Officer Spock, Rebecca Romijn (X-Men, Femme Fatale) as Una Chin-Riley, Celia Rose Gooding (Breakwater, “Foul Play”) as Nyota Uhura, Jess Bush (“Halifax Retribution”) as Nurse Christine Chapel and featuring Academy Award® Nominee for Best Actress, Carol Kane* (Hester Street) as Pelia.

In Season Two, the crew of the U.S.S. Enterprise, commanded by Captain Christopher Pike (Anson Mount), confronts increasingly dangerous stakes, explores uncharted territories, and embarks on personal journeys that continue to test their resolve and redefine their destinies. Facing friends and enemies both new and familiar, their adventures unfold in surprising ways never seen on any “Star Trek” series. The 4-disc Blu-Ray collection feature every thrilling episode, including a special crossover event with Star Trek: Lower Decks, the first ever “Star Trek” musical episode, and over 2 hours of special features!

Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 2 Special Features:

Prepare to explore Strange New Worlds with more than 2 hours of special features, including featurettes that take you behind the scenes of this remarkable series. Plus, get even more Strange New Worlds with deleted, extended, and alternate scenes, including an alternate take of the Klingon song from “Subspace Rhapsody.”

    • Producing Props

    • The Costumes Closet

    • The Gorn

    • Singing in Space

    • Exploring New Worlds

    • Deleted, Extended, and Alternate Scenes (Exclusive)

Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 2 Arrives on DVD, Blu-ray™, and 4K UHD™ December 4

Buy from Amazon at - https://amzn.to/3QY2LkU

Enter now for a chance to win a copy on Blu-ray™.

Who plays Captain Christopher Pike Star Trek: Strange New Worlds Season 2 ?

Send your name, address and of course the answer to competition365@outlook.com

Quick Terms and conditions

1. Closing date 11-12-23

2. No alternative prize is available

3. When the competition ends as indicated on this page, any and all entries received after this point will not count and emails blacklisted due to not checking this page first.

4. Winners will be chosen randomly and will be informed via email.

5. Entries that come directly from other websites will not be accepted.

Wild Scandinavia - Interview with narrator Rebecca Ferguson

Q. What made you want to be part of this series?

I was brought up having a magical connection to nature.  When later introduced to the world of BBC wildlife programmes it brought back so much nostalgia.  Being asked to be part of this series therefore was a huge honour for me.

Q. Tell us a bit about growing up in Scandinavia.

When I was growing up, I always wanted to go exploring in the woods and become one of my favourite childhoods characters Ronja from stories by Astrid Lindgren. She was a true representation of Swedish and Scandinavian nature. I also loved to do another tradition of picking wild strawberries and threading them through strains of straw.

Q. Tell us about your personal passion for Scandinavia

It's Raw and wild. It's Pinecones, mushroom picking, cold, mythical mysterious.  So many tales and stories come from the world of Scandinavia.

Q. Describe any personal experiences you've had with wildlife in Scandinavia

It's hard not to have connections with nature.  For me it's about feeling connected to it and being a part of it daily.  I was brought up in Stockholm then moved to the south of Sweden to a remote fishing village, meaning I got to explore such drastic difference in environments and temperatures.

Q. Were there any standout or memorable sequences in the series for you?

Being a part of the whole story and seeing things that I would have never got the opportunity to see was such a treat. It brings me as close to it as possible.  It's so unusual to see it all first-hand and I got to be part of it adding my narrative which was magical. As an ocean lover, I particularly enjoyed the reproductive process of the synchronised star fish and watching the sea cucumbers feed on the algae and plankton from the seabeds.

Q. Did you learn anything new about Scandinavia that you didn't know before narrating the series?

Yes! I couldn't believe that they are still preserving fish the same way we did in the Viking times! It was fascinating to see that process.

Q. What do you believe is so captivating about this region?

The Landscape is the main characteristic, it's sharp and harsh and the animals have had to learn to shape to their environment.  The extreme difference between the North of Sweden with its angular landscapes to the south of Sweden with its rolling hillsides, orchards and apple trees.

Q. Do you have a favourite species from the series and why?

Yes! The White-Tailed Sea Eagle is my favourite species from the series. They are so majestic flying through the air.  Their hunting skills of catching the fish is like watching a thrilling chase scene from a movie! It's so highly skilled and chaotic at the same time.

Q. What do you hope viewers will take away from watching Wild Scandinavia?

I hope that they it will Learn about new environments and that it opens up their eyes to the beauty of this region.  How different it is. Why it's so different. How the people have had to adapt to the environment.  The extremes of the seasonal weather and landscapes.  I hope it makes people want to visit and to nurture and to care for our world even more.

Embark on a Nordic Adventure with "Wild Scandinavia" – A BBC Two Series Celebrating Nature's Wonders

Prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking landscapes, enchanting wildlife, and rich culture of Northern Europe in the upcoming BBC Two series, "Wild Scandinavia." Produced by BBC Studios Natural History Unit in collaboration with PBS and Sveriges Television (SVT), this three-part exploration promises an immersive journey into the farthest reaches of Europe.

Narrated by the talented Anglo-Swedish actor Rebecca Ferguson, known for her roles in "Dune" and "Mission: Impossible," each 60-minute episode of "Wild Scandinavia" unveils a distinct facet of the region's natural wonders. From the hauntingly beautiful coastlines to the magical seasonal forests and the extremes of volcanic and arctic landscapes, the series promises an unforgettable visual feast.

Join Mary Earps as she delves into surprising wildlife stories featuring lynx, puffins, orca, and wolves. These tales are interwoven with the extraordinary experiences of people who call this icy wilderness home. The series goes beyond traditional nature documentaries, providing an intimate look at the challenges faced by both the wildlife and the resilient inhabitants of Scandinavia.

The groundbreaking cinematography of "Wild Scandinavia" showcases the region in ways never seen before. Fast FPV drone cameras follow base jumpers into fjords, while high-speed cameras capture the majestic sea eagles in action. State-of-the-art camera traps offer glimpses into the secret lives of lynx, and super-macro filming takes viewers into the world of spiders living in volcanic hot springs.

Series Overview:

Episode One: Life On The Edge

Embark on a coastal journey from the Baltic Sea to the Wild Atlantic Ocean, exploring freezing Arctic waters. Witness seal pups born on granite islands, daring base jumpers navigating Norway's iconic fjords, and Europe's largest eagles patrolling sea cliffs. This episode unveils the struggle for survival where the land meets the sea.

Episode Two: Heartlands

Discover the magical beauty of Scandinavia's forests and waterways through changing seasons. From ingenious ravens outsmarting golden eagles to Sámi herders relying on reindeer, "Heartlands" explores the interconnected world of ancient Norse myth. Lynx, bears, and Nordic skaters take center stage, providing a glimpse into the delicate balance of life in the heartlands.

Episode Three: Ice And Fire

Delve into the dramatic extremes of Nordic territories – volcanic Iceland, the high tundra, and Arctic Svalbard. Polar bears, arctic foxes, and musk oxen navigate a world ruled by the pendulum of sunlight, from total darkness to the midnight sun. Witness the challenges faced by creatures built to withstand polar nights and the transformative impact of the sun's return.

Don't miss "Wild Scandinavia," a 3 x 60-minute series airing on BBC Two and iPlayer. Commissioned by Jack Bootle, Head of Commissioning, Specialist Factual, and Sreya Biswas, Head of Natural History, BBC Commissioning, the series is helmed by Executive Producer Rosemary Edwards and Series Producer/Director Tuppence Stone. Embark on this extraordinary adventure starting [insert date].