Episode 1

Good Remake--But the earlier version is much superior
I approached this remake with an open mind, having already been enchanted by the novels and the original series on PBS. This series is good, but suffers greatly from miscasting of pivotal character of Irene Heron Forsyte. Gina McKee, a talented actress, does not convey the mystery and allure of Irene the way Nyree Dawn Porter had already done in the original series. Gina McKee's coldness and drabness makes it hard to believe that men would be captivated by her. For instance, I found it hard to believe that Philip Bosinney would throw over sweet and pretty June for this coldblooded woman. Nyree Dawn Porter on the other hand was Irene Forsyte, matching the description of Galsworthy as a beautiful woman with brown eyes and blonde hair who was charming. Ms. Porter effectively portrayed the aversion she had for Soames Forsyte, her first husband, and the warmth and devotion she showed to her second husband, Young Jolyon and their son, Jon. She made it easy to understand why Bosinney would...

Not perfect but good enough on its own terms
Some of my readers might have very warm recollections of the 1967 black and white BBC mini-series (from before, I believe, the term was coined) that brought to life in 26 episodes and 21 hours all six of the nine novels written by John Galsworthy under the supertitle "The Forsyte Saga." Few video adaptations quite as good were to come again until "The Pallisers" attracted millions, and both would be very difficult to improve upon. Well, Granada has tried with what might be an 18 part remake of the Galsworthy saga; and the first series of 6 is now available on three DVDs from Acorn Media.

Taken on its own terms, it is extremely good--but not perfect--and had me and wife pretty well riveted to the screen on three successive evenings. It did not, however, erase fond memories of the earlier version. Now the 1967 version was "studio-bound, with static camera work, long scenes and long speeches" (as the press release puts it). What the release leaves out...

Beautiful!
A beautifully filmed history piece re the Forsythe's. Drama, romance, tragedy all carefully weaved into the lives of those directly involved in the family, as well as innocent bystanders. For Damian Lewis and Ioann Gufford fans, definitely add to your collection. One becomes so involved in the story, you really believe you know them. And as for Damian Lewis as Soames, you love him, hate him and pity him all at once. A wonderful performance by all! For lovers of period pieces, this is a catch!

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