The Forsyte Saga (2002–2003) User Reviews

heroine or villain?

[stuart-halliday · 9/10 · 16 September 2010]

Comparisons between the 60s version of this splendid work and the latest one are difficult because they were both great. I have really enjoyed the last version especially as regards the performances of Damian Lewis and Gina McKee.

One previous contributor said that he found himself almost liking Soames which 'we were not supposed to do'. Is that right? Galsworthy intended The Forsytes to be representative of the upper middle class with some bad aspects - arrogance, lack of sentiment, conscious always of their respectability - but also with a positive side - sturdy, determined, ambitious, but ultimately concerned with ownership and property. Soames is an extreme example of his kind, to the extent that he regards people - especially his wife - as potential property. Irene, on the other hand, represents the new force which, along with the effects of WWI and the rise of the Welfare State, nationalisation etc will soon overthrow the old order.

Superficially at least, Soames is the villain. He appears to terrorise his wife, physically abuses her and more. However, is there another side to this? Irene marries him quite cynically for materialistic reasons. It's not merely a question of 'not loving' him. He positively makes her flesh creep right from the start. We are given the idea that she is forced to marry him by her stepmother and by her poverty. Force her?? As the story goes forward, we see that she is a strong character - no-one can force her to do anything. Her poverty? She has £50 per annum from her father. This might not seem a lot, but it was about what an artisan earned in a year at that time (on which he was expected to keep a family). Despite his treating her as property, Soames does love Irene in his way and he does try his best to give her what she wants. In return she is openly unfaithful to him, denies him children and even conjugal rights. As regards his bad treatment of her, she certainly returns the compliment in kind. She could be looked on as something of a vampire - she sucks the life force from Soames and old Jolyan and wantonly destroys the happiness of her friend June and Bossiney (though admittedly he goes along willingly). As regards her own son her hatred of Soames tempers her dislike of Fleur so even her son is badly affected by her force of character and neurosis.

I think Galsworthy, as well as writing a simple commentary on Edwardian and Victorian life was also trying to divide his readers into factions - the pro-Soames camp who like the old ways, and the pro-Irene (the 'new woman' camp) who wanted change.

Whatever, I have to congratulate Gina McKee. She carried off that complex character of Irene so well. Her enigmatic Mona Lisa smile, did it display goodness? Or the opposite? I'm still not sure

Fabulous version of Galsworthy's novel

[mitfordgirl · 10/10 · 8 May 2005]

I had never heard of The Forsyte Saga before seeing the mini-series but I enjoyed it so much that I bought the novel, and isn't that really what these adaptations of novels are all about- trying to interest people enough to read the book the movie was based on? I'm glad this version wasn't completely true to the novel considering that so many of the characters in the novel are either underdeveloped or so enigmatic that it's hard to have any kind of feelings about them.It was a stroke of genius to develop Dartie and George into the two jokers of the family, who provide light entertainment when the plot gets a little dark. In defense of Gina McKee, I think the choice to cast her as Irene was a wise one. I can't think of any other actress today who has such an elegant, classy beauty without being "showy" about it and I thought her characterization of Irene was true to how she is portrayed in the book, considering that Galsworthy deliberately made Irene a very shadowy, unreachable figure. Ioan Gruffudd, who, with his dark good looks just seems to be made for these lavish period pieces, was his usual dashing and charming self playing "The Buccaneer" and the rest of the cast put in a fine performance. While I admit these costume drama mini-series aren't to everyone's taste, you can not doubt the painstaking hard work put in by all involved that makes them a cut above the rest.

Damian Lewis made this mini-series for me!

[DruGarton · 10/10 · 8 December 2002]

I truly enjoyed this mini-series. I felt that Damian Lewis' portrayal of Soames was truly award-winning. After seeing him in other roles (most notably Band of Brothers), I am even more impressed with his range. I also don't agree with those who felt that the Irene' should have been played by a "prettier" actress. I felt that Gina McKee's true beauty was exposed once you looked at the person inside, exactly as Irene's was. I would recommend this to anyone!

Damian Lewis shines as Soames

[jennyDarlin · 10/10 · 20 October 2003]

I have not seen the original film or read the book, so I have a fresh perspective on this version of The Forsyte Saga. It is a brilliantly acted, emotionally stirring film. Damian Lewis is outstanding. He brings such intense emotions to the character of Soames. I don't know if it's the character but I like to think it's his acting that makes you almost feel sorry for this man. How can you feel sorry for someone who, on the surface can be so cruel? Well, that is the genius of Damian Lewis! He brings such passion to the complex character of Soames that you can't stop watching it! He expresses so realistically the repressed emotions of the character. I feel that is what makes this film so moving, it's so human. The film displays w/such heartache(thanks to the acting) the struggles and human complexities of individuals forced to stay within the expectations of their repressed society. The actors effectively display how the characters desperately need & want love and acceptance, but don't have a clue how to obtain it, although some do find love eventually. I definitely recommend this film to anyone who likes period type/costume dramas which showcases brilliant acting. And if you don't know Damian Lewis, this is an excellent introduction to his work!

A brilliant follow-up to the 1st series

[ids · 10/10 · 1 September 2003]

This second installment lives up to the expectations created by the first series and by the novel itself - To Let. We meet again, with much pleasure, the magnificent cast of the first series (D. Lewis as Soames stands out) and discover the choices that have been made to cast the 4 new main characters : Fleur and Jon Forsyte, Prosper Profound, and Michael Mont. I found the 4 of them to be nearly-ideally suited to their part. May be the actor playing Jon lacked a little bit of brilliance, but he showed a lot of sensibility and looked a lot like his "mother", Irene. The story unfolds with relentlessness but there are also many moving, or funny moments. The films is really faithful to the tone of Galdsworthy and is, all in all, a magnificent achievement. it is as good as the first series, and may be even better. At the end of the 4th episode, we are really sorry to have to wait for the next episodes of the saga, and the lives of Fleur and Michael Mont. Highly recommended to fans of British top quality literary drama.

A gripping follow-up to the first series

[ducklessreeds · 10/10 · 19 September 2003]

The first series was so well wrought that I rushed out to buy the books, a set of three trilogies! As did the first, this second series brings the characters and story lines to life as though Galsworthy himself crafted the script. Once again, we trace the intertwined lives of Soames, Irene, Jolyon and their families as they mature and branch out. Damien Lewis builds upon his masterful portrayal of Soames, an emotionally repressed man bound by Victorian conventions, whilst others around him, including the irrepressible Freddie, enjoy the heady excitement of the decidedly unstuffy post-war era. I found most characters "aged" convincingly, although time, if not her fashionable appearance, seems to have stood still for June who now looks about the same age as her much younger sister, Holly. Overall, the continuity between the first and second series has been handled well. Much of the action in the books has been condensed whilst still remaining true to the plot (the same things happen, just not as drawn out). I am really enjoying the new characters who have been introduced: Jon, Fleur, Prosper Profond and Michael Mont. The actors are well cast and have done a marvellous job; the audience really cares what happens to them, regardless of whether we like them or not. None is all bad or all good, and we recognise our own human virtues and frailties in reflection.

Quite a good mini-series

[Arafura · 22 September 2002]

A remake of the 1967 original, the 2002 mini-series boasts some fine performances, especially from Band of Brothers' Damian Lewis as the often unfeeling Soames Forsyte, and Gillian Kearney as June Forsyte (the graveyard scene between these two characters is superb!)

The story follows three generations of the Forsyte family, from about the 1880s to the death of Queen Victoria. There is a nice blend of humour, action, and drama to keep the viewer interested in the proceedings. If you're like me and into family sagas, I recommend watching this, or, if you can't, reading the book by John Galsworthy.

Superb Victorian Drama With Stellar Cast - Powerfully Moving!

[AerLingus · 10/10 · 19 May 2006]

I came across "The Forsyte Saga" and its sequel, "The Forsyte Saga: To Let," in my local library. It was the sequel that I had watched first, not realizing there had been a mini-series made prior to this. THE FORSYTE SAGA is an utterly brilliant film, in my opinion, ranging from the exceptional performances of the actors (notably Rupert Graves, Damian Lewis, Gina McKee, Gillian Kearney, & Corin Redgrave), to the screenplay, to the cinematography, to the music (closing theme). The actors executed their portrayals with such realism that I was engrossed in the mindsets of the major players in the film. Such performances are refreshing in the movie industry, as one loses sight of the actors for the "characters." The plot was very good and well written; as such, the movie never seemed to drag. For me, this drama evoked powerful emotions ranging from: deep sorrow & loss (Old Jolyon), to empathy & sympathy, and even a few moments of unexpected humour. I kept wanting more. All in all, this miniseries shows us many injustices, and that dignity, integrity, goodness, and compassion can prevail. If you can set aside an afternoon or long evening to relax and watch the miniseries in one sitting, it will be worth savouring. I hope others find THE FORSYTE SAGA to be a pleasure to watch. I certainly plan to add the DVD set in my film library soon.

Wow...

[Em-55 · 10/10 · 2 October 2002]

I can take or leave some historical dramas but The Forsyte Saga had me hooked. The series was a sumptuous delight and I will miss my Sunday night's viewing.

The story was brought to life wonderfully, with great direction, amazing costumes and brilliant acting. The real gem of the series was Damian Lewis and his portrayal of Soames was second to none. Also worthy of mention were Gina McKee and Rupert Graves, as Irene and Young Jolyon respectively. These three actors are among the best in Britain.

To anybody who has an interest in British Society at the end of the 19th Century, this is for you.

I will be very glad when the second series is shown, and I can only hope that it will be as good as the unforgettable first.

Flawless In Every Respect!

[bikerhiker46 · 10/10 · 19 November 2011]

At 65 years of age I have seen my share of movies and plays and I would have to say that this series is simply one of the, if not THE best productions I have ever had the pleasure of viewing. From camera work, through scripting, through character development it was simply beyond compare. The acting was of a level seldom encountered these days, or for that matter, any other days. Against this drama the threadbare nature of much of what today passes as entertainment is painfully evident.

I can't for the life of me understand why Damien Lewis and others were not immediately catapulted into the highest regions of recognition.

If it gets any better than this I've yet to experience it and I'm not holding my breath.

BRAVO!

Engrossing continuation of the scandal ridden Forsyte tale

[roghache · 8/10 · 16 May 2006]

This is the sequel to the previous year's mini series, The Forsyte Saga, based on John Galsworthy's novel. It continues on with the dramatic lives of the younger generation of Forsytes, namely the forbidden romance between Fleur and Jon. Fleur is the daughter of Soames Forsyte, and Jon the son of Soames's former wife, Irene. Once again scandal, secrets, and deception dominate the tale. Like its predecessor, this saga has beautiful English scenery, finely furnished country manors, and lovely period costumes.

The story is interesting, though I personally find Fleur not a sympathetic heroine at all but instead totally self absorbed, deceptive, and manipulative. Jon is much more appealing, a young man with a deep love and respect for his parents. From their first encounter at an art gallery, the lovely & spoiled Fleur has made up her mind to have Jon for herself. Naturally their ill advised love affair opens up all the old wounds between Soames and Irene. In addition to Fleur and Jon, there is a likable third party to the love triangle... Michael Mont, who also vies for Fleur's affections. Essentially the conniving Fleur uses poor Michael for her own selfish purposes.

Actually, the most compelling part of the story for me remains the unfolding lives of the older generation, Soames and Irene. Soames is now wed to the unfaithful French Annette, and Irene is happily married to Jolyon. Especially given the drama with their offspring, will Soames ever be rid of his obsession with Irene, the wife who never loved him and is now married to another?

Read the book

[Duffer-7 · 8 October 2002]

The screenwriter has once again decided to rewrite the story. Read the book (actually books) to find out all the differences. For example, in the book the governess leaves on her own & refuses any extra pay, Young Jolyon is seen visiting her flat & the gossip starts - that's when Jolyon's wife and father first learn anything is going on. The changes go on and on. If you have ever seen the 1967 version, it would be hard to beat Eric Porter as Soames.

Truly a classic

[chaz_burgess · 9/10 · 23 August 2005]

Golsworthy himself would be proud if he saw this reproduction of his work. The Forsyte Saga admittedly has a lot to live up to considering the popularity of its predessessor, the 60's series. The cast is truly outstanding to say the least, with Rupert Graves and Gina McKee truly engaging the audience with the plight of their characters and Ioan Gruffudd convincingly portraying a work-a-holic architect whos visions captivate his employers. What will shock most of all is how quickly you learn to care for the characters. I found myself worrying for Irene at every negative turn, but still I pitied the twisted Soames Forsyte despite his evil coldness. The soundtrack will stick with you, be warned. You will love this if you enjoyed Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility, Tom Jones or Moll Flanders. You wont like this if you cant stand waiting for the next installment, as it does come in long episodes and two series.

Worth watching. Daniel Lewis made it so.

[so_she_says · 9/10 · 3 February 2010]

I just finished watching the Series One of the Forsyte saga and I must say I liked it. It has a good picture, realistic and exquisite backgrounds, costumes, everything. I don;t know if so it was intended but i HATED IRENE who in my opinion is nowhere near beautiful and somehow this way in which she is presented is quite strange, being shown as an outstanding beauty when in fact she isn't, also the way characters gravitate around her is not convincing at all. Soames on the other hand is very well played, he is very real I would say, the realest of them all. I recommend this movie if you like the epoque feeling and romantic stories.

Wonderful

[=G= · 7/10 · 17 December 2004]

"The Forsyte Saga" traces several generations of the monied upper-middle class English Forsyte family from the mid-Victorian period into the 20th century. The 6 hour miniseries immerses itself in all of the usual family affairs from feuds to alliances to romances to marriages to births and deaths, etc. all wrapped in the Victorian social ethos. The backbone of the saga is the bifurcation of lineage from two patriarch brothers Forsyte in general and the enduring obsession of one, Soames Forsyte (Lewis), an intense and inscrutable solicitor, for a beautiful woman in particular. A sort of elegant Victorian soap opera, "The Forsyte Saga" captures the period well and fleshes out interesting and wholly believable characters with depth, color, and passion. Well worth a look by anyone into films about families or Victorian familial dramas such as "The Governess" or "Sense and Sensibility". (A)

Flawed Telling of a Flawed Classic

[Mister-UHF · 28 December 2002]

This miniseries is the first of what is expected to be two or three covering all of Forsyte novels.

First, this is one of most visually opulent television productions I've ever seen. The costumes, sets, props, and photography are all first rate. Apparently Granada Television hasn't heard that such a production is supposed to be a thing of the past. As for the story itself, the series seems to be largely faithful to the books. And therein lies the rub....

Because in doing so, it concentrates heavily on Irene and Young Jolyon, two of the more despicable characters in English literature. I've yet to meet a person who's read the books and ended up liking either one. Irene marries a man she knows she doesn't love or even like, makes no attempt to do either, hates him, and then cuckolds him by having an affair with the fiancé of her innocent young friend. Young Jolyon goes wherever his hormones lead him, uncaring of the hurt such inflicts on other people. Having these two as `heroes' is an inherent flaw in the story.

Making matters worse are the acting of those parts. Gina McKee's Irene is so bland and lifeless that it's hard to imagine one man becoming obsessed with her, let alone four: Soames, Bosinney, Old Jolyon, and Young Jolyon. (The Morticia Addams makeup doesn't help either.) Rupert Graves just walks through the part of Young Jolyon; whenever emotion is called for, he just looks awkward, like a kid caught in a minor fib.

June isn't much to sing about either. Her character is irrational, adoring the father who abandoned her, quickly forgiving the friend who stole the love of her life, and blaming it all on Soames, who never lifted a finger against her. Gillian Kearney tries her best with the part, but the way it's written, the eventual result is just an annoying adolescent.

Not surprisingly, the character of Soames steals the show, but this triumph is not by default. He is the most complex and fascinating character in the series. Outwardly cold and businesslike, he is consumed by an inner desire to love and be loved. Damian Lewis brings out all of this in his skillful portrayal. The final scene, when Soames holds his infant daughter for the first time, is the most powerful and believable part of the whole series.

Forsyte Saga

[HUKKABEE · 10/10 · 27 January 2005]

The Forsyte Saga is one of the best television series I have ever seen. Besides a great story line, the film is perfectly cast! What a difference casting makes. Watch it and see if you agree with me. The actors in this series were just superb. I fell a little in love with the poor but handsome architect Phillip Bossiney, played by "Ione Gruffed," to perfection and who is struggling to make a name for himself. Rupert Graves was effective playing the artistic young Joylon who became an outcast in the Forsyte family for leaving his wife and child for the woman he truly loved. Corin Redgrave gave a memorable performance as old Jolyon, a character I disliked at first, but who became my favorite character by the end of the film. Damien Lewis, who played Soames Forsyte..a man obsessed with his beautiful wife, was great in the part. Gina McKee was perfectly cast as the reserved, but artistic Irene, who married Soames Forsyte because she was pressured into it by her stepmother. She has the kind of beauty that was prized back in that era of time, with her rich black hair and beautiful white flawless skin. The story tells everything about the human condition; love,hate, jealousy, revenge, envy, lust,war, wealth, snobbery, power,weakness, strength, obsession,infidelity, opulence, poverty...it has it all. I can't imagine anyone not enjoying this film to the utmost. I wish there were more movies like this one. I loved every single minute of it. If I had to give one Oscar out for only one actor in this film, it would definitely go to Damian Lewis.

One of the most nauseating female characters I've ever watched.

[childgaia7 · 8/10 · 26 May 2018]

All I can say about this series is that it should of been called The Irene Forsyte Saga.

Love Denied

[sexy_pisces_gal · 10/10 · 1 July 2005]

Damien Lewis and Gina McKee return to the small screen as Soames and Irene Forsyte, an ex marriage still fuelled by jealousy and revulsion. It is nineteen years since Irene walked out on brutish controlling husband Soames following her traumatic rape and is now happily married with Soames cousin Jolyon Forsyte and their son Jon. Soames meanwhile has also married again, to the beautiful French ex-shop girl Annette and have a stunning daughter Fleur, a spoilt child accustomed to getting her own way. So when,by a chance meeting she sets eyes on the handsome Jon Forsyte at an art gallery she makes up her mind to have him, oblivious to past that lingers between their parents Soames and Irene. The couple begin a passionate affair ripping apart old wounds that were thought to be dead and buried.

Beautiful!

[kos5 · 10/10 · 19 November 2004]

The Forsyte Saga is a beautiful and addicting piece of work. The first time I saw it I was hooked! The plot line kept me hooked and coming back for more! It's intelligent and beautiful, with an obviously incredible writer and absolutely fantastic acting!

I could not see anyone better for the casting. The plot line was outstanding and the characters intriguing . But, I must give my compliments to Damian Lewis (Soames Forsyte). Soames was a thoroughly interesting character and Damian Lewis was perfect! I had never actually disliked a "bad guy" until I saw Soames. I am not saying that Soames is an evil sort of character, but Lewis made him so believable.

Gina McKee(Irene) was also a wonderful character and she was perfect for the part, but I actually preferred her in "The Lost Prince" as "Lalla".

I really cannot understand how people could not like "The Forsyte Saga". Its intelligent and beautiful,with a victorian timeframe that made it even more intriguing.

Exploitation Tragedy and Control,

[sexy_pisces_gal · 10/10 · 1 July 2005]

The Forsytes. A family that had everything, power, money, and influence. At the heart of family is Soames Forsyte (Damien Lewis) a rich and successful solicitor in the family law firm. He has everything that would be considered a success, except for one thing- a wife. so when he meets the beautiful but poor Irene Herron he decides to have her. Pushed by her widowed stepmother Irene reluctantly accepts his proposal. But money rather then love becomes unbearable for Irene and she begins a passionate love affair with the poor but handsome Phillip Bossiney (Ioan Gruffudd) fiancé to cousin June (Gillian Kearney). It has devastating consequences not only for the jilted partners, but for the whole Forsyte family, who are cruelly ripped apart. The story continues for the last two episodes, twelve years after all the heartbreak and pain. time has healed the hurt and the family is looking to the future. Love is brewing between to distant cousins, Soames seeks a divorce from his estranged wife Irene so he can remarry and have the son he desperately needs to continue the respected family name. But for one Forsyte the declaration of war brings grief and pain and the family is mortified when Irene takes up with another Forsyte.

Only for fans of the first series...

[voltage11 · 7/10 · 1 May 2005]

I was sadly, sadly disappointed by this series. I wasn't a fan of the original series myself, but I did recognize the good elements in it and appreciated what I could...but I fear there are even fewer things to play off of here. I realize that many people love and adore both series, but here's another perspective (which is bound to happen when so many different people are viewing it). Overall, I was greatly annoyed by the main characters. They were childish and obnoxious...if they weren't crying they were throwing a fit...and that just grates on the nerves after a few hours. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing Damien Lewis again...he nailed the role at being vile. He's one character you love to hate. I was so disappointed, however, at the turn Jolyon's character took. He was one of two reasons that I even made it through the entire first series, so you can imagine my difficulty at his new attitude (which is understandable with two obnoxious main characters running around wreaking havoc). ;) I was really pleased with the outcome of the movie, however, and couldn't have thought of a better way to end the madness myself! :P So, there is one opinion that's opposite of what others have to say. I will say that if you enjoyed the first one, you will probably enjoy this one. Give it a shot, and if at all possible...it's always more enjoyable to like something. I wish I could have the opinions of the others here, but there you have it! :)

Forsyte Family Fight

[barryrd · 9/10 · 2 August 2015]

Now watching this excellent drama on PBS, I find the characters and story keep me tuning in to each episode to watch the twists in the plot and how the characters change and grow over a period of time. Set in the late 19th and early 20th century Britain, an era of major transition, we see the characters in the Forsyte family clashing with one another. Some trying to keep with the old ways against those who are trying to fashion a less regimented way of life. The class system is coming under tremendous stress and people like Soames Forsyte, performed by Damian Lewis, and his father (John Carlisle) try to maintain the standards of behaviour and hypocrisy against another branch of the family, including Jolyon Forsyte and his son, characters played by Corin Redgrave and Rupert Graves. In this conflict between old and new, we find Soames' estranged wife Irene (Gina McKee) opposing him as he tries to lure her back into his straitjacket world. Not taking no for an answer. Soames stalks her, driving her into the arms of his free-spirited cousin Jolyon. All the cast are superb, particularly Damian Lewis as Somes. Gina McKee delivers the right balance of dignity and strength as she battles Soames who tries to bring her to heel. Interesting to view longtime actors like Wendy Craig, who plays a supporting role as one of the elderly aunts of the family. This series was originally shown in 2002-03 and Damian Lewis has become a major actor with starring roles in series such as Wolf Hall and Homeland; Rupert Graves has been a strong presence in movies and television since the 1980's. They and the cast generally make this a memorable series with its fine acting and script and an enduring story by John Galsworthy.

Not my cup of tea...but give it a shot

[voltage11 · 7/10 · 1 May 2005]

Hmmm...I wasn't as impressed as some of the other commenters here, but that's to be expected with dozens of people coming from different places. Granted, it was well done and there were many aspects that I found wonderful, but overall I was left feeling emotionally drained without having been at all fulfilled. Now, I will never deny that Damien Lewis was just downright amazingly disgusting...he was wonderful! I thought the role of Irene was sadly miscast, but that really is just an opinion...someone else may think she was perfect. But, when it came down to it, I found myself only watching for the sake of two reasons: 1. I rented it and felt obligated, and 2. I cared about Jolyon and June. Other than that, I would have stopped watching. The other characters were stiff and I never felt quite compelled enough to become invested in them. Again, this is all coming from one perspective, so I would suggest giving it a shot for yourself. It's one of those that can hit people in different ways. 7 out of 10 stars for the good elements. :)

Gorgeous, haunting miniseries

[ShannonAmidala · 23 April 2003]

I first saw this miniseries when my friend loaned it to me on her taped VHS collection. She stressed emphatically how fabulous it was. One day, I borrowed it from her, skeptical...that soon changed! I loved it!

The cast is phenomenal, all are top-notch thespians with great range and a wonderful display of the human condition. Ones that particularly stand out are Damian Lewis and Rupert Graves. Lewis' haunting, affecting performance as the wealthy Forsyte and his suffocating passions was truly mindblowing and brilliant. Lewis is a very accomplished actor. Graves displays a subtle yet great performance as Young Jolyon. He's also pretty easy on the eyes. ;)

And one performer whom I REALLY adored, was Ioan Gruffudd, who is extremely, extremely talented. It's a pity his character had such a small space to play around in, so to speak, because he really would've shined. He's a lovely, lovely tragic actor. :)

I had a few qualms of Gina McKee when I watched this miniseries, for I HAVE read the book, and I do know about the characters as Galsworthy meant for them. I do not think McKee is aesthetically suited for the role, as I pictured Irene to be somewhat younger and more youthful. McKee is very good, however, and she really shines in Irene's class and aloof, enigmatic presence.

The miniseries is sumptuously filmed, with accuracy and a haunting score. The writing is magnificent, a great adaptation from the book. Watch it! I can't wait for the miniseries.