Masterpiece Theatre: Cranford (2007)

 Cranford is a town resolute in its traditions. At the heart of the small town is group of women who are unwavering as the town becomes fraught with change.

This delightful BBC adaptation stars a delightful cast. Dame Judi Dench leads the way with the likes of Imelda Staunton, Eileen Atkins, Greg Wise and Michael Gambon close beside.

The production is a feast for the eyes and a blessing to the soul. Despite the myriad of disasters that occur to the inhabitants of Cranford—many at the doing of a certain gossip—Miss Pole (Staunton), the viewer is engaged and bemused by the goings-on. Societal taboos and classes are severely rendered and held to. The dependence on marrying well and other customs are represented. The lavish production is beautiful. With all the trimmings found at the local shops to the grime of poor Harry’s abode, no detail is spared.

Women are the fairer sex and men, well, are gentlemen in Cranford. As I see it, fans of Austen, Dickens or even Eliot will enjoy this adaptation of Elizabeth Gaskell’s period novels.