Return to Cranford: Part Two - October 1844

The first season of "Cranford" had five episodes, so I was a bit shocked to discover that the second season only had two.

It may have only had two, but each one was quite lengthy and it was like seeing two movies back to back.

The story continues somewhat from the first season, although the young doctor and his young wife do not return, probably to make room for new romances among the town's denizens.

In addition to Judi Dench and Imelda Staunton, the cast features a young Michelle ("Mary Crawley") Dockery, and a recurring role by Jim ("Mr. Carson") Carter, both from "Downton Abbey."

The language spoken sounds like it must have been from that time (the 1860s), and the sets and the locations were all marvelous.

There were so many great one-liners that I was laughing almost throughout. But there are also powerful deep emotional moments that really packed a punch.

If you love hearing English spoken as it might have in a small English town in the 19th century, and if you can appreciate some of England's finest actors (including a guest role by Tim Curry!) having a field day, this is highly recommended.

It's true that the lighting seemed to be all over the place in Episode 2, but all is forgiven because the story was so rich and entertaining.