Cranford - Complete BBC Series Details

[Highly rated reviewer]

Cranford

Set in 1842/1843, this adaption of Elizabeth Gaskells 3 novels, is located in and around the village of Cranford in Cheshire. The village has refined ladies in abundance, mostly single or widowed and in the first episode, it becomes obvious that they don't much like change. The local landowner, Lady Ludlow, runs her stately home with a firm hand ably assisted by Mr Carter. On the outskirts of the village is a family who's main breadwinner is a poacher and who's eldest son, Harry, has ambitions to read. Into this very isolated community comes a young Doctor, fresh from medical school in London, Mary Smith who has left her family in Manchester to lodge with Miss Deborah and Miss Matty Jenkyns and Captain Brown and his two daughters, who unbenowns to the villagers have a secret. agenda. So, here we have a superb drama, wonderful costumes, outstanding performances from everybody without exception, comedy and tragedy. For the lovers of period drama this is a must see.

Superb

The series was superb, wonderfully realized, the scenery and costumes where very evocotive. Some very big names but one of the most impressive was Lisa Dillon as Mary, could have been a very dull young woman but was played with extraordinary depth and feeling. The character of Miss Pole played by Imelda Staunton is worth tuning in for alone. Unusual for a period peice it was actually very funny aswell. Highly recommended. I'd give it more that 5 stars if possible.