After watching Episode four last night, I was strangely, left without feeling a sense of disappointment. I wasn't bored or distracted at all, as I had felt in the previous three episodes. So what was the difference this time?
Firstly, I've been trying really very hard to see this new version as an adaptation of Winston Grahams novels, rather than a 're-make' of the original TV series. I've found this hard, since I am so fond of the original adaptation, and in many ways I prefer the dramatic style of acting we see in the first series. However now that I am (slowly) getting through the novels, its easier to see it as an adaptation from them.
I was thrilled to see some of Jud & Prudie's personality coming through at the start of the episode. There was a slight humorous angle on them in this episode that I have not seen before, (apart from perhaps when Jud was counting in the wrong order at the start of the dual episode). I really enjoyed the dialogue between Jud, Prudie and Demelza at the start when they were discussing Demelza's new status in the household!
I am finding myself very much warming to Verity now. I think she is a gorgeously talented little actress. The scene where she comes to stay with Ross and Demelza, and Ross leaves the two ladies alone together was lovely. I used to think Verity was mis-cast but I am rapidly changing my mind about this. I am still not feeling the love for Francis, however I can see his character is improving somewhat. Elizabeth comes across so very different to how Jill Townsend portrays her in the first series. I am finding I do not dislike her character now, although I still feel as though she's a little empty in emotion. I would say that, this is one of my main "bug bears" at the moment in that I really cannot see or believe their previous romantic connection in any way at all.
In this episode the pace seemed to slow down considerably, and I am hoping it will remain so going forward. In terms of character development, I feel now we are definitely getting to know and love Demelza, who could not after Christmas at Trenwith when she delights the group with such a sweet beautiful song. I still cringed at the bedroom seen, although it was quite tame! (I am the type that had to look away at the sexy scenes in "The Tudors" but enjoyed the historical story line to it).
I still desperately miss the focus on 'Side Stories/characters' that were explored in the original TV series. We saw much more before of the 'Common Folk' than we do in this series. It still seems very much the "Ross & Demelza" show, or dare I say the "Aidan Turner" show. I am very much looking forward to meeting Dr Enys & Miss Penvenen as well as Cap'n McNeil! I was looking at pictures of Judy Geeson last night, she was so beautiful!
I do like Aidan as Ross. However he still seems a little too young and inexperienced in the world to be Ross. However he does do a good performance. I imagine Ross to be a bit more rugged and 'worn', and less polished.
Despite this, something was just more 'Right' about episode 4 in my opinion. It was gripping, emotional, funny, inspiring, and heart warming and left me wanting for more! I just really hope that this is a turning point and that the next 4 episodes do not disappoint!
I would love it if you have time to leave a comment on the blog, many thanks, and if you haven't read my previous critique feel free to view here:
I absolutely agree. I'll be honest and say I was on the verge of bowing out last week but episode 4 has been a huge improvement and most of the characters have really bedded in well. I'm not keen on Francis and my jury is still out on Verity but overall a complete leap from the previous 3 episodes
ReplyDeleteHello, and thank you so much for reading and for your comments. Lets just hope it continues to get better and better. What is it that you are unsure about with Verity? I agree about Francis.
DeleteI am in love with Demelza . . .
ReplyDeleteBUT the idea that she so quickly quieted the offended gentry with a song and a pretty smile is not credible. They still won't accept her.