Review by John Rain
Narrated by Vanessa Redgrave
UK cert U | UK RRP £19.99 | BD Region ABC | Runtime 101 minutes | Directed by Patrick Keller
"A few years ago, while dismantling a derelict caravan in the corner of a field, a recycling worker found a box containing 19 film cans and a notebook. Researchers have arranged some of this material as a film, narrated by their institution's co-founder, with the title "Robinson in Ruins". The wandering it describes began on 22 January 2008". This is the message that greets the viewer upon starting the film.
Robinson in Ruins is a fascinating time capsule of modern Britain, but the modern Britain we do not see nearly enough of, the beautiful countryside. The film also acts as a time machine in that it takes you to some beautiful, historic locations buried in our countryside and offers in-depth reports on historic events that once happened there. There are also some charming tidbits on nature and how the wonderful machine trundles along, without our knowledge, under our very noses. The arresting quality of the sights and sounds of mother nature are made all the more spectacular to appreciate in Blu Ray, particularly when combined with Vanessa Redgrave's velvet tones.
In reality of course, there were no film cans found, no note book and certainly no caravan. This is purely the frame that director Patrick Keller wraps around his wonderful picture, but as a concept it works and leaves you with a fairly haunting view of the world.
While Robinson in Ruins may not sound like exciting viewing, it is a fascinating trip through our green and pleasant land and certainly leaves you in no doubt of what beauty really surrounds us.
EXTRAS ★★★ Dual Format Edition, including both Blu-ray and the DVD versions of the main feature; Deleted scenes and alternative takes; Panel discussion: Patrick Keller, Doreen Massey, Patrick Wright and Matthew Flintham, on their project The Future of Landscape and the Moving Image (2011, 15 mins DVD only); Extensive illustrated booklet featuring essays and film notes; the theatrical trailer.