Around the World in 80 Days

Only on episode 2 and so far so good, I'm not sure what all the fuss is about changing the race or sex of characters from the original - nobody complained when Phileas Fogg was represented by a Lion in the 1980s... And yes, it is not the brightest of filters they've used, but I had no problem seeing any of the characters.

Most of the reviews on here are not rating it in its own right, they are generally comparing it to their own version of the book, and as we are all different, someone else's adaption can never live up to what we create in our own minds.

I'm seeing lots of criticism for this show for not living up to the originals, but coming from someone who hasn't ever seen them, I thoroughly enjoyed this series. It doesn't have to be identical to the original to still be a really good series, you just have to look at it for what it is.

David Tennant is phenomenonal throughout and the supporting cast is very good. Okay, it's not a perfect series but what is? I'd highly recommend watching if you want some adventure!

I have not read the book and see that some of those that have are disappointed by this series. Free of such preconceptions I found this an enjoyable watch. Best was to see the three main characters develop and grow through their adventures, especially Mr Fogg.

So, if you have read the book I urge you to free yourself of any expectations and enjoy this in its own right. The book is a recognised classic and this is not, but this will entertain you if you can allow it to do so.

Read the book, please read the books and you will be drawn into the most exciting, magical, bright story imaginable, and then watch this series.

Lifeless, it pains me to say it, because I am a massive fan of David Tennant, but having watched the first few episodes, that's the first word that sprang to mind. In the book you can feel the tension, the excitement, this had the thrills of people sat in a Dentist's waiting room.

I may well get captivated later on, it may move out of first gear, and I hope it does. Pacing initially though is the real stumbling block.

The positives, first on the list, the visuals, it is beautifully made and produced, production values are sublime, the clothes and location work are pretty jaw dropping. I thought the acting was terrific, Tennant never disappoints.

Some good elements in the mix, it looks good (even if I did have to look for the brightness setting on the TV for the first ever time,) but it just lacked any real thrills.

6/10 this should have been better.

I've noticed on IMDB there seem to be a lot of people that start to cringe at the slightest hint of something being "woke, political correctness" etc etc and will just punish the show with their rating.

Well, sorry if for those reviewers that want to live on a crappy planet and feel pained by modern sensibilities. In the meantime, this was just an enjoyable series, great scenery, fantastic acting and it was around the world in 80 days.