Review: _Wives and Daughters:_ Family Turmoil and Scandal, the English Way

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Earlier this year, PBS brought us this adaptation of Gaskell's novel Wives and Daughters. Written in the 1860's and set in the 1830's, this novel captures life in a small English country town, with all of its petty strife, intrigue and family life and lore. Through letters the viewer captures a glimpse of life in farther reaches, in London, France and even Africa. The story centers around three families: the Gibson's, with the heroine, Molly, and her father, the Doctor; Squire Hamley and his sons, Osborne and Roger; and Lord Cumnor and his children, Lord Hollingford and Lady Helen. Life for these people is turning in a steady rhythm, nothing to disturb them, nothing to shake up the pattern of their lives. For Molly and her widowed father, their universe is composed simply for the two of them, a blissful life. Until her father meets Clare Kilpatrick, companion of Lord Cumnor's wife, and eventually he proposes to the beautiful but very shallow widow (wonderfully played by Francesca Annis). For Molly, not only does it mean a stepmother, but also a stepsister, Cynthia, who is the opposite of Molly in almost every way. And Molly has a terrible time adjusting to her new life, feeling betrayed by her father, seeing her stepmother for the vain, scheming creature that she is, and finding herself falling for someone that she may never have -- and who might not even love her in return? And throughout the story, there are family scandals, lies, miscommunication, and a dreadful secret that could ruin Molly and her family. Rest assured that all will be put right by the end, but not in ways that anyone suspects. For fans of Victorian literature, this is a grand spectacle of a film, with some of the best production values I have ever seen. Filmed on location in Great Britain, you get to see grand country homes, and middle class dwellings in all their splendour, some excellent outdoor shoots. Other details such as clothing (especially Annis' costumes) and interior sets are also correct to the period, including the fantastical headdresses of the 1830's. Best of all is the acting, with the parts of Squire Hanley (Michael Gambon) and Molly (Justine Waddell) being of particular note. The script is an outstanding adaptation of the book (which was unfinished at the time of the author's death) and is finely finished with a believable ending. Clocking in at over 300 minutes, this is a long film; however, it's great if you want to settle in for over several nights or a long weekend to enjoy. The DVD also includes a Who's Who of the cast, a documentary on the author, Elizabeth Gaskell, and a documentary on the making of the miniseries. So, I give a flat out five stars just for the completeness of this 3-disc set, worth the price with attractive packaging, clean and clear footage, and a wonderful and intriguing story. Suitable for all ages, although the story will be beyond the grasp of most children; would be grand for that teenager of yours who has a romantic bent.