Cranford is one of the best period drama/comedy series of all time. There are many reasons why that is so. One is the period detail. The photography is stunning, the scenery is breathtaking, the costumes are truly wondrous and the sets are realistic looking. The music is also gorgeous, and the quality of the script is exceptional. While there are some poignant moments, there are some truly funny ones as well, I mean the whole drama sparkles with constant wit and subtlety. And of course the acting, what a divine cast. Judi Dench is magnificent as Matti Jenkyns; I for one don't think she is overrated as an actress, she is wonderful in my opinion. Her performances are consistently brilliant and here it is no exception. Imelda Staunton is brilliant as Miss Pole, Julia McKenzie(who I last saw as Miss Marple) is terrific as Mrs Forrester and Deborah Findley is just as good as Miss Tompkinson. Other performances worth of mention were Eileen Atkins in a scene stealing turn as Deborah Jenkyns, Phillip Glenister shows real versatility as Mr Carter and Michael Gambon is exceptional as Mr Holbrook. His chemistry with Dench was ever so touching, it did make me cry. All in all, a truly brilliant piece of television. Whenever it is on, it always makes my week. 10/10 Bethany Cox
Review of Cranford
