Le Comte de Monte-Cristo

I've been a fan of The Count of Monte Cristo since reading the book years ago, but I've struggled to find an adaptation that truly worked for me.

The films are too short to do the story justice, and while the popular 1998 French-Italian miniseries had its charm, it feels a bit dated now and takes some liberties with the plot.

I was actually anticipating the new 2024 French film adaptation when this English TV series appeared out of nowhere (though it is still a French-Italian production).

This series is the best adaptation I've seen so far. After watching it, I can confidently say I'm less excited about the film (although three hours long, it probably still not long enough to include all story elements).

It's been a long time since I read the book and I don't remember every detail, but the series seems faithful to the story and the eight episodes give the plot room to develop. It simplifies some secondary character and story arcs, but overall, it covers much of the novel.

My only critique is that the middle episodes did get a bit convoluted, and I sometimes struggled to keep track of the three families. (To be fair, I'm terrible with names, which didn't help.)

Regardless, I highly recommend this series, whether or not you're a fan of the book. My wife, who hasn't read it, loved the series just as much-and even asked to keep watching, which is rare for her.

Based in UK desparate to watch and lucky enough to watch on STV.

A beautiful mini series based on Alexander dumas novel. Stunning locations, architecture, music, art and most of all superb acting and directing.

Sam Claflin as Edmund/the count was absolutely hypnotic. Close up camera work on his eyes showed the pain, anger and loss of the character. Episode with Abe Faria (Jeremy Iron) was enthralling don't know where time went.

Actors playing Danglars, Vampa, Caderousse and Jacapo gave humour which I enjoyed too!

The villains of the piece played magnificently too.

A show not to be missed. I'm on my 3rd time round😁

In a landscape filled with adaptations that often only capture a shadow of their source material, "The Count of Monte Cristo" miniseries arrives as a resounding triumph-a television event that not only honors but elevates its origins. This isn't just another version of Alexandre Dumas's story; it is, without a doubt, the definitive adaptation for our generation and one of the best I have ever had the pleasure of watching. A flawless masterpiece that deserves every second of your attention and the highest possible rating.

At the heart of this magnificent production lies the performance of a lifetime from Sam Claflin, who delivers an unforgettable Edmond Dantès/Count of Monte Cristo. His portrayal is, without exaggeration, hypnotic and masterful. We watch with bated breath as he transitions from the naive young sailor, his eyes brimming with hope, to the cold, calculating, and relentless Count, whose pain and thirst for revenge burn behind a facade of charisma and absolute control. The camera masterfully captures every micro-expression, revealing the layers of a man remade by tragedy and knowledge.

The brilliantly crafted screenplay achieves the rare feat of being extremely faithful to the soul of the book. The eight-episode miniseries format was the perfect choice, allowing the complex plot to unfold with the necessary pace and depth. Essential characters like Maximilien Morrel, Valentine de Villefort, and even the bandit Luigi Vampa-so often cut from other versions-are given their due prominence here, enriching the narrative and showing a profound respect for Dumas's work. The few changes made only serve to enhance the story's cohesion, making it even more believable and impactful on screen.

Visually, the series is a cinematic spectacle. Every scene is a painting, with stunning cinematography, authentic costumes, and spectacular locations that transport us directly to 19th-century France. From the desolation of the Château d'If to the opulence of Parisian salons, every detail is meticulously crafted, creating an immersive experience and a true feast for the eyes. The original score perfectly complements the atmosphere, intensifying every moment of tension and drama.

The supporting cast is equally brilliant. Jeremy Irons delivers a wise and captivating Abbé Faria, and his chemistry with Claflin makes their time in prison one of the series' high points. The villains are magnificently portrayed, with a palpable evil that makes the Count's revenge all the more satisfying. Characters like Jacopo and the series' version of Caderousse bring humor and humanity, balancing the story's tone.

"The Count of Monte Cristo" is television at its finest. It is a series that captivates from the first second to the last-an epic journey of betrayal, redemption, and one of the most well-orchestrated vengeances in literature. In the end, the feeling is not just one of satisfaction, but of gratitude for the creation of such a powerful and respectful adaptation. For fans of the book and newcomers alike, this is a must-watch experience and the perfect justification for a 10/10 rating. Simply marvelous.

I have seen less than 50 percent of Bille August work and never liked any of his movies, actually most of it made me wanna puke and think he is totally overrated. Mediocre movies that I feel are so poorly made but this one is just amazing.

Maybe it is because this Story is just so amazing, that his talent finally come to show. But this is the best version of the The count of Monte Christo I have ever seen.

Great acting, great flow in the story, cinematic experience was superb felt like a historical experience and the audio was amazing.

Our family, old and young, was glued to the screen for two days.

The only minus was the pretentious birth name of his daughter who had a minor role in the movie which she did, ok. So we withdraw the tenth star.

I can honestly say, that I didn't miss a second of this fantastic version of the classic tale. The cast, the direction, the locations... all of it is perfect. Nothing less. I binged it all through christmas day and now I don't know what to watch next! It's that kind of adaptation. It's that good. It's worth a second watch, and thats what I will do. Watch it again :-) If you have the chance to stream it where you live, make yourself a good cup of coffe, sit back and enjoy the story of revenge, greed, ambitions, love, hate and all that lies in between. I really recommend that you do, and remember to enjoy the caracter of Dantes/ the Count. He is so brilliantly portraied as a man with complete control of his face and his emotions.