When the Beeb first showed The Way We Live Now a couple of years ago, I missed out on it, and it took me a UK Drama repeat to catch up. It was pretty successful, and in its wake has come The Pallisers on Radio 4 for the last 12 weeks or so, and now this.
Obviously Bill Nighy's in this, as Bill Nighy is contractually obliged to appear in any half decent British film or TV series. At least if he doesn't have a voiceover or radio obligation that day. He plays Col. Osborne, a man of slightly dubious repute who is godfather to our heroine, Emily. Sadly he seems to visit her just that too much following her marriage to Louis. Finally, an exasperated Louis ditches his wife in shame.
Some great character parts - in particular, Anna Massey as the miserable old aunt. Lots of asides to camera, and lush settings - they seem to have used the real Wells Cathedral.
I quickly flicked over to BBC4 to watch part two, although I'm still a little uncertain about the benefits of this. I'd say that a catchup midweek is probably the better way to go.
Roll on the final two parts. As to whether or not I read the book? Well I should really finish The Way We Live Now first.
Posted by adambowie at April 19, 2004 03:43 PM