Sanditon

I rather like this series, although it is certainly not Jane Austen. HOWEVER, the stickler in me compels me to note . . .

A significant theme in the second season is Georgianna's campaign to 'boycott' sugar in the interest of ending slavery. This in 1820.

In fact, the word 'boycott' did not enter the English language until 1880, as the result of tactics employed by Irish nationalists against one Charles Cunningham Boycott, at the suggestion of Parnell.

I enjoyed the production for what it was: an historically inaccurate JAFF (Jane Austen Fan Fiction) with beautiful scenery. While it was visually beautiful, there were too many jarring things that cut into my enjoyment. The dancing and women's hairstyles were NOT Regency. Adult women did NOT wear their hair down, EVER. I don't know what the dancing was supposed to be, but it wasn't even close to Regency. Also, the mores of the characters had a distinctly modern attitude, which kept taking me out of the purported period (Regency era England). The acting was well done and the story fairly well told. If I wasn't such an Austen and JAFF fan, I might have let all the inconsistencies slide. Unfortunately, I expect more from period dramas, than this offered. This was like a beautifully decorated cake, that tasted of liver and onions (there's a more apt description that would have been a shocking spoiler. One word: pineapple, LOL).

I might watch it again, if I can put all the inaccuracies and incongruities out of my mind.

Wonderfully acted all around + I don't think I've ever seen chemistry, like that between the 2 leads, on tele before (the 2nd ball is simply spellbinding). The layered storylines are very absorbing and good to see other characters have depth and meaningful plots of their own. Some viewers don't seem to like the "warts/bums and all" portrayal of Austen's work in this adaptation, but it feels like a truer reflection of the times she lived in and reflects issues we're still trying to come to terms with in society today - so I, for one, think it's refreshing!

Ignore the critics - those who think Austen wouldn't have approved evidently have no concept of her spirit - as long as there's a second series that is!

I've only just watched the second episode, but I'm hooked now! The main character is really observant and brave and I love watching her expressions whenever someone particularly greasy tries to befriend her. There's a lot of tension in the first couple episodes around authenticity, motivations, and the slave trade, with hints of childhood sexual abuse.

And for the sake of context; I'm an Austen fan, an English major, and a librarian. This has her rather sardonic eye all over it.

It is the best period drama in a very long while due to the best casting/acting/directing/music/locations and everything in between. Rose William's and Thei James were born to play Charlotte and Sidney. 9 stars only due to happy ending and also coz we need season2.