The Miniaturist

Guess what? There were homosexuals in the 17th century!

It is very interesting reading the reviews for this series as they are all over the place from glowing to downright insulting. What I found a little peculiar was that a few people claim to be so "Deeply offended" and or shocked by the inclusion of scenes depicting homosexual relations between two men. I presume that this is in the original source material and of course is deeply essential to the plotline whether you like the plot line or not. Really in 2018 what is the big deal.? You know your son is not going to turn to be gay if he sees this on TV.

I started watching the first episode and did not move. It is beautiful. It is light and dark, funny and disturbing. It is worth the time and I will definitely watch it again. The acting was first rate, but the sheer beauty of the lighting and the sets, especially the miniature steals the viewer's attention.

It's as if Rembrandt and Vermeer have come to life. It's an engaging story beautifully told. I could go season 2.

The basic source of seduction for this mini-serie is the atmosphere. As beautiful embroidery of cultural references, from Vermeer and Rembrandt to Victorian Gothic stories. The week point - maybe...atmosphere. More exactly, its pressure who seems transform the characters in clay sillhouettes. In essence, a beautiful adaptation , unrealistic in few points but real seductive for the flavors of a lost time. So, a sort of gem. Maybe not original but aestheticall at whole.

I absolutely loved The Miniaturist, I thought it engrossing, and enchanting. I'll admit, after ten minutes, I found myself thinking I wasn't going to get into it, as I'd hoped for a Ghost story, unaware of the very different direction it was going to head into.

Initially, I was struck by how incredibly beautiful it is, it is a lavishly produced drama, with incredible costume and set design. The production values are excellent, it is so well shot, so easy on the eye.

Superb acting, Anya Taylor Joy and Alex Hassell share the spoils, with the former shining initially, and the latter shining later on. In all fairness though, each cast member performs admirably, Romola Garai never fails to impress. Each character adds something, nobody just there to make up the numbers.

It has a mystery, and an intrigue, you're desperate to know who the talented, but well informed miniaturist is, but the main element I would say is the love story element.

The authentic Dutch settings add to the overall feel of it. I think this is a drama that will only improve on subsequent viewings. I loved it, 9/10.