Doctor Who writer Peter Harness (‘Kill the Moon’) has adapted Susanna Clarke’s bestselling novel Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell for BBC One. Set at the beginning of the 19th century, England no longer believes in practical magic, until the reclusive Mr Norrell vows to prove himself England’s greatest magician. > Order the DVD on Amazon. > … >
Until Episode 1’s credits told me so, I hadn’t realised that BBC One’s Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell was based on a book. I can’t really comment, therefore, on whether the book is essential to a full understanding of the bewildering and beguiling events unfolding on screen. For the same reason, I’m not yet sure … >
When it comes to occupying our various entertainment rectangles, the BBC is practiced to the point of ease at two things: period dramas and adaptations of novels. Often both at once, as we’ve seen most recently with Wolf Hall and Poldark. But there’s being very good at something, and then there’s just showing off, because … >
Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell’s title is a very clever one. Mr Norrel’s name suggests an element of period drama – all costumes and propriety – but the name Jonathan Strange implies a sort of superhero, or some element of the otherworldly. And that’s because that’s exactly what Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell is – … >
A new one-minute trailer for BBC One’s Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell has been unveiled. Adapted from Susanna Clarke’s bestselling novel by Doctor Who writer Peter Harness (‘Kill the Moon’), the magicical drama series begins at 9pm on Sunday 17 May on BBC One. Set at the beginning of the 19th century, England no longer believes … >
Kicking things into high gear for this action packed finale, the episode launches us straight into the board meeting, postponed from last week’s episode, as Harry battles wits with Loxley and the Board. It’s a brilliant sequence, tightly directed and well played by all involved as Loxley’s true motives and behaviour are exposed as he … >
A ‘Sale of The Century’ extravaganza throughout the store is the focus of this week’s episode. Pushed by his declaration to give the shareholders a much higher return on their investment, Harry bulk buys products to boost profits. However, the decision does not go down well with the local press, other retailers or the Selfridges … >
Events at Selfridges pick up three weeks on from last week’s drama as the store launches its ‘Britain At Play’ theme to commemorate the signing of the post-war peace treaty. However, it’s not at all peaceful behind the doors of the famous department store. Nancy Webb (Kelly Adams) continues her deception with Harry, but it’s … >
Still reeling from the loss of one of their own, the Selfridges staff gather round to pay their respects as the death has a profound effect on all concerned. However, loss – as a key theme of the episode – is something all the characters experience this week in one way or another. Violette and … >
A charity party to raise funds for the Selfridge’s Homes for Heroes Estate is the backdrop to the aftermath of last week’s events, providing even more drama for the staff and family at Selfridges. Jeremy Piven continues to shine, with some lovely dramatic moments here that showcase how settled he is in the skin of … >