A Hazard of Hearts (1987)
When compulsive gambler Sir Giles Staverley has lost his estate and all his money playing dice, he realises that he only has one thing left of value: his daughter Serena. In a final game, he stakes his daughter's hand in marriage, convinced that this time he will not lose. Unfortunately, however, he does lose; to the evil Lord Wrotham. Unable to return home and tell his daughter that he has lost her in a game of dice, Sir Giles kills himself there and then. Lord Vulcan, who has witnessed the events, takes pity on Serena Staverley, although they have never met. He challenges Lord Wrotham to a game of dice in which the winner takes both Staverley Court and Miss Serena.
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Best movie of this year hands down!
a film so unique, intoxicating and bizarre that it not only demands another viewing, but is also forgivable as a satirical comedy where the jokes eventually take the back seat.
An old-fashioned movie made with new-fashioned finesse.
The story is charming indeed as always as any of Barbara Cartland's novels, love between aristocrat with romantic intrigue. However even usually Barbara wrote good novel still it depends on the actors' work to present the real feelings of each characters.I definitely agree that a couple in this movie is incredibly perfect, Helena Bonham Carter and Marcus Gilbert showed a very much growing affection between them. Helena is wonderful portrayed her character as a strong girl who had principal with a strong heart to live in that kind society. While Marcus was terrifically charmed and showed his character really well as any of Barbara novel hero described. All other cast are doing terrific job portrayed their characters as described in the novel. Marcus also acted in other Barbara Cartland' adaptation novel "A GHOST IN MONTE CARLO" (worth watching also).The story of all Barbara novel always happy ending including the film. The movie ended with a wedding scene between Justin and Serena and that's all that matter for a romantic film viewer like me not to forget the creative modest background music that felt matching the movie very well.
I love this movie and have done since I first saw it many years ago.The script is firmly buried in cliché and is in places laughable (She's about to have the vapours - I'll lay odds on it!) but that only adds to its charm.An impressive early performance from Helena Bonham-Carter as the spunky country-mouse, and a first look at Marcus Gilbert (phoaar) as the brooding-yet-misunderstood-and-hunky Lord Vulcan provides the energy of the movie, but the old guard (Diana Rigg, Stewart Granger, Anna Massey et al) provide the seasoning which makes this a most palatable effort.I have now seen this about a hundred times and can practically talk along with it, but it never gets old, never gets tired and the DVD will be my next purchase (I *shall* have it!).
I saw this movie when it aired in 1987 on the ABC network. I absolutely loved it. My mom taped it and I watched it everyday after school and all summer long, until... MY MOM TAPED OVER IT ACCIDENTALLY!!! I was absolutely devastated, and needless to say, my mom still has not lived it down. HELP! I have searched for this movie for 14 years, and am desperate to get a copy of it. Even if it has all the old commercials--any condition. Where can I find a copy? Please help me locate a copy of this most adorable movie. Thank you for any assistance you may lend to assist me.
I caught this movie when it first came out and it instantly became my favorite romance film. I was 12 then and I impatiently waited for it to come on TV again. I was fortunate enough to record it the second and third time that it re-appeared and I wish it was out on video for others to enjoy. It's not earth shattering, but cute, sweet and fun. Helena Bonham Carter is adorable and has spunk and Marcus Gilbert is a handsome devil that can make you melt down through the couch! This movie started me on Regency period novels and films (not to mention forever hunting down Marcus Gilbert film/TV appearances). If you have the chance, WATCH IT!! BUT REMEMBER: Do not take it too seriously or you will be doomed to disappointment! You can also find other TV movies from Barbara Cartland novels such as A Ghost In Monte Carlo (also w/Marcus Gilbert), Duel Of Hearts, and The Lady & The Highwayman (w/Hugh Grant). You might also enjoy The Scarlet Pimpernel.