DVDs in Review

Billy Connolly: Live in New York 2005/Was It Something I Said?

Title: Billy Connolly: Live in New York 2005/Was It Something I Said?

Release date: November 23 2009

Certificate: 18

Format: DVD

DVD RRP: £19.99

Rating: 3.5/5

Billy Connolly has consistently proven himself to be one of the finest British comedians going, bursting with vibrant energy and magnetic appeal. As a globe-trotting TV presenter he is genuinely warm and likable, and as a film actor he has crafted some unique, solid and quirky films, but his home seems to be the stage.

The two DVDs collected in this "just in time for Christmas" box set may not make a perfect case for that, but they do offer a snapsnot at a great comedian further down the road, embittered but still packing a punch.

That's the only real problem with 'Was It Something I Said' is his quite malicious tone. He seems angry and fed up to a point of frequent damning explosions, rather than extroverted and expressive.

It's tempting to quickly apply the "grumpy old man" label, which is a little unfair. He may be grumpy and getting on a bit, but when he regains his focus after his unfortunate distractions, Connolly's biting wit and gift for observational humour is still there. It just takes a little more digging before you strike gold.

This is true but the other way around for 'Live in New York', the other half of this cheap and cheerful box set. Connolly has the vibrancy and heated passion here but his material isn't as sharp or well observed.

This set certainly isn't the ultimate introduction to the great man but it's a good (and well-priced) addition for the fans. Recommended.