THE VALLEY OF DEATH

British Sergeant Crossman leads a commando group in the Crimean War. Although the characters are a bit two-dimensional, there's a great deal of exciting action. The high point is the Battle of Balaclava, with the famous Charge of the Light Brigade. Veteran actor Garrett performs the narrative sections admirably, with the Battle of Balaclava being especially well done. But he truly shines in portraying the many characters. There is a host of different nationalities (English, Irish, American, Russian, Turkish, etc.), and all are credible and consistent throughout. Indeed, Garrett's enthusiastic and colorful portrayals make this worthwhile. M.T.F. © AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: DEC/JAN 00]