Have always absolutely adored the books and they were big personal favourites as a child and within the whole family. There have been some fantastic shows based of childhood favourite literature, a primary example being the wonderful 'The World of Peter Rabbit and Friends' which was very true to Beatrix Potter's timeless stories. Loved the 'Brambly Hedge' show when younger and was hoping when tracking it down after years that it would be as good as remembered.
'Brambly Hedge' turned out to be every bit as wonderful as remembered, like 'The World of Peter Rabbit and Friends' there is a timeless quality and it is actually even better now as a young adult. Due to appreciating the visuals even more, as well as the atmosphere and the characters. Also admired at how true in detail and spirit to the books in a way that few book adaptations today are, doing so without being too faithful. Just wish that it lasted longer and that all the stories were adapted.
It still looks beautiful. The sets and interiors standing out in particular and show ambition and a great deal of care without being overblown or over-fussy. The characters are very nuanced in movement and expressions and their designs are adorable. They are very nimbly voiced by very distinguished actors that get the varied personalities spot on.
The music is used simply but elegantly, matching the gentle tone of the stories with no signs of over-bearing or overuse. The theme tune is also in keeping with the overall tone of the show. The writing is beautifully balanced, elegant in its simplicity and true to the spirit of the stories' gentle and whimsical prose. The stories are immensely charming and will appeal to children and adults alike. There is a clear awareness of what target audience to aim at and the show never forgets it, with the stories being true in detail and spirit to the books (like the books come to life actually) without being too simple or complicated.
A truly beautiful and underrated show that should be made available more widely. 10/10.
