Jekyll and Hyde

I must admit I wasn't too sure of this when it started. For a start, the original novel by Robert Louis Stevenson was, like Frankenstein, meant as a moral tale that explored humanity's darker side and the lust for God-like power. But against misgivings, I've started to really enjoy it. That's all this is meant to be, a spooky, atmospheric romp, a touch of Hammer Horror, London Ghost walks and steam punk - great stuff for a Sunday night, though I'm not sure why its on so early, this is really 9pm fare in my estimation. Love the Harbingers though. Some very strange reviews on here - if you don't like it, why watch it and get yourself in a twist about it? It's well-written (far less self-indulgent than Dr Who)and beautifully produced, hats off to them. I certainly hope we can get another series out of it, I'll miss my spooky Sunday nights without it if it's discontinued.

I am very disappointed that the cancelled Jekyll & Hyde for the next season. The storyline and the plot of the show was awesome. The characters were all great. I want more! Why start a season to leave your audience hanging for more? I had finished the last episode and not impress with the ending. It's like a write a sentence or book and not finishing to the end. There are so many shows that are not giving a chance to go beyond one season if that the case then don't broadcasting them in the first place.

There are a lot of good and decent shows out there and there fine but no where near as fascinating to me as Jekyll and Hyde. The un-natural way the characters act and move is so unsubtle and melodramatic. It's over the top and every one will let there emotions be known. Jekyll isn't very good at hiding or suppressing Hyde and everybody notices. The thing about Hyde's character that confused me is why this Indian raised man comes over to Britain and is basically British after that. A few references are maid but still. Lily is the oddest. She just wanders around for a few episodes smiling no matter strange, distressing or traumatic things get. Over all it is a (probably unintentionally) captivating show and because of that it's the only thing I still watch live on television.

I was really unsure about this initially, it seemed very dark and I thought it was going to be tame, but I really love everything about the programme, the sheer OTT nature of it, the contrast between Richard Jekyll and Mr Hyde. Excellent acting from all concerned, the period settings and scenery enhance the whole series, the various monsters and villains are extremely well thought out - not too many, and just when you think all will be OK, up another pops! Episodes have an unpredictability to them. It will be a travesty if a second series isn't made. Sherlock Holmes with a nice dark twist!!! I do think it needs to be on a bit later though, I would imagine it is a bit frightening for young children.

Jekyll and Hyde is a Devilishly stylish, polished 30's horror drama that hits all the right buttons.

From the storyline to the narrative, special effects, sets and acting Jekyll and Hyde is a real winner. In spite of the fact this series is loosely based on well trodden ground, it still manages to be highly imaginative and original. It takes core elements from the original tale, written by Robert Louis Stevenson and then, in a fusion like blend, adds in intriguing extra's.

For starters there's the very heady 1930's British flavour of the whole series, which recaptures the latter days of the British empire. The whole series is 30's "chick" with a capital "C". Stylish cars, sets and people sit alongside the more worker day aspects of life and times, of the period.

Adding to the mix, are Gothic elements and monsters, reminiscent of any early 20th century horror flick. Not to mention proper "British" secret organizations, both good and bad. Groups that tap into the mystical world these monstrous creatures inhabit. A world that sits just beneath the thin skin of normalcy, most people call reality.

The acting in Jekyll and Hyde is of a high standard and the cast are well chosen. The narrative is intelligent, for the most part, only occasionally overplaying the 30's "thing". The story in spite of its layers of complexity, holds together well too. Its a credit to the writers, director and producers, that they manage to create such a cohesive tale, with so many creative concepts in play.

I love this series, its a remarkably refreshing take on a classic tale. Nine out of ten from me.