Two more British telly favorites - Poldark and The Pallisers.
I watched the original Poldark (1975) based on the novels of Winston Graham with Robin Ellis and Angharad Rees and didn't think anything would be able to compare to it. Poldark is the story of Ross Poldark, returning from the American War of Independence to his home in Cornwall to find his father dead, his fiancée betrothed to another (his cousin!), and the state of Cornish mining in dire straits not to mention his old nemesis, George Warleggan, lurking in the shadows. Enter the raggedy urchin, Demelza, and you have a cast of characters that, set across the glorious landscapes and seascapes of Cornwall, are enthralling.
Along comes 2015 and Poldark is remade with Aidan Turner starring in the leading role. I thought I would never warm to him, thinking him somewhat too modern and flashy for the earthy Ross but oh my, when the shirt comes off, be still my heart. I had to admit at that point that Turner really had something magical. I'm definitely coming around. I'll let you tune in and judge for yourself but beware, a shirtless Turner is quite the sight!
The Pallisers is the 1974 adaptation of Anthony Trollope's Palliser novels. The story revolves around the forced marriage of the Lady Glencora to crusty Plantaganet Palliser, set across the backdrop of mid-Victorian British politics and the social system in place at that time. Fans of British television will recognize several well-known names in the cast among them Sir Derek Jacobi, Penelope Keith, Anthony Andrews, and Jeremy Irons.
Another period piece not to be missed - stunning locations, amazing costumes, history, humorous at times, an all-around great series.
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