Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell

It is very difficult to sum up of even describe Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell without it sounding lame, which it most certainly isn't. I was unsure what to expect from the title and few screen shots I had seen. There was no promotion for it at all in Australia, as it has yet to be screened here on terrestrial TV. I wasn't sure whether to expect a comedy, a drama, or fantasy. In the end I got all three in some measure, and more. Set in the early 1800's, magic is known of, but rarely practiced in England, that is until a long time practitioner Mr Norrell arrives on the scene to try and bring credibility to real magic. Jonathan strange emerges around the same time, as a newly fledged Magician, and the two inevitably meet. I'll give away no more of the story, but it is written in such away that makes the occurrence of actual magic in the early 19th century believable, as it is accepted as fact by the general public. The weaving of the story with historical events and excellent acting throughout just sucks in those viewers who are willing to suspend their belief and enjoy the ride. Highly recommended, but you have to accept the premise to fully enjoy.

After watching the first episode and wondering if the series was a little bit dry and a shade too dull for me, I had a feeling that it might just be taking it's time and laying a good foundation for what was to come, and I am so glad I stayed with it, because in episode two, Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell starts to reveal just how deep and interesting the story is to become. By the end of the third episode I was beside myself with excitement to see the next one - so deeply drawn into it's weirdly wonderful atmosphere! The actors here are first class, and all of them really know how to 'sell' a scene! I don't think this amazing story could have come to life quite so well and in such completeness if it weren't for the commitment of these incredible actors to the material. I am amazed that TV can still knock my socks off once in a while! Well done to all involved, I can't wait to get the set! SO much love for this show.

This is BBC drama at its very best and a great showcase for why the licence fee is such good value. The quality of acting is superb with brilliant casting, lighting, costumes and direction. Hats off to Peter Harness, Nick Hirschkorn and Toby Haynes for writing, producing and directing respectively such a complex book into television drama of the highest quality. Those who have read the complex and sonorous book will be aware of the feat this adaptation has required. This production oozes class and looks set to grip viewers under its spell.

And all this without a single shirt needing to be torn off. At least, thus far.

Maybe it is two kinds of magic ... kidding aside, this is a very well written and filmed show about Magicians and how they might have been perceived. While it does name check real life figures/people (like Napoleon), I am not a scholar of the time to tell you what it does get right about the time this is supposed to play in.

Having said that, it does start quite slow (as I reckon almost anyone on here will have stated already too), but becomes quite the beast along the journey. It really ups the ante and it really has some high stakes when it comes to the characters and their fates. Intriguing storytelling mixed with really well thought of characters ... and a mini series too! For those who like to binge watch and all that. Costumes are great and performances are very good too. Special effects are decent as well - which was needed considering the nature of the show.

Jonathon Strange and Mr Norrell is a slightly glum, complex but ultimately intriguing drama about two magicians attempting to return magic to England. The plot itself is unpredictable with many compelling twists which result in massive impacts on each of the characters. Although, it can be rather confusing for me at times.

Speaking of the characters, they are superbly cast and believable. Bertie Carvel is excellent as the mysterious Jonathon Strange, Eddie Marsan fits the role of the reclusive Mr Norrell perfectly, and Marc Warren is exceptional as the malicious Gentleman. The other actors including Charlotte Riley, Alice Englert and Ariyon Bakare also give commendable performances.

The visuals are stunning and clearly the creators put a lot of money and effort into making them seem as realistic and jaw-dropping as possible. From the swarm of agitated ravens to the voluminous black tornado formed by Mr Strange himself, there is nothing to fault.

Overall, Jonathon Strange and Mr Norrell is an exquisite series which I'm sure admirers of the book will adore. As for those individuals who have not read the book, (such as myself) this is a fresh, thrilling and mesmerising story which will capture the imagination of all ages.