THE problem facing a film like this is a classic TV version that still stands the test of time. Made in 1981 and starring a youthful Jeremy Irons and Anthony Andrews, the critically acclaimed and epic 11-hour series became the definitive adaptation of Evelyn Waugh's 1945 novel.

FILM OF THE WEEK BRIDESHEAD REVISITED (12A) Julian Jarrold (133 mins) ** STARRING Matthew Goode, Ben Whishaw, Hayley Atwell It is almost impossible to watch this new version of Brideshead Revisited without the double distraction of what has come before.

By Alice Jones Some became superstars, others slipped into obscurity. As the new film opens, Alice Jones catches up with the cast of the original 1981 TV series Revisiting Brideshead Revisited was never going to be easy.

By SIOBHAN SYNNOT From costume drama to sci-fi, Hayley Atwell's star is burning bright. FOR SOMEONE STARRING IN TWO period dramas within a month of each other, Hayley Atwell appears an improbable English rose, with her strong, geometric cheekbones, glossy dark hair and sexy-smart mien.

By Geoffrey Macnab First Night BRIDESHEAD REVISITED Locarno Film Festival LOCARNO, SWITZERLAND *** Swiss audiences are less preoccupied with the fate of Sebastian Flyte's teddy bear than their British counterparts.