Anyone who appreciates fine acting and ringing dialogue will love

this film. Taken from Ronald 'Taking Sides' Harwood, it's a funny

and ultimately excoriating analysis of a relationship between two

very 'actorly' types. Albert Finney is sublime as the despotic

Shakespearean actor who barely notices the world war raging

around him, so intent is he on the crumbling fortunes of his theatre

company and his own psychological and emotional breakdown.

Tom Courtenay is matchless as Norman, the 'Dresser' of the title,

whose apparent devotion turns out to be anything but selfless.

Really a must see.