Finally, another worthy 18th century period drama has come from the magical realm of British television! If you haven't been bombarded with the news already, next Sunday, June 21st, is the U.S. premier of 'Poldark' on Masterpiece at 9 PM Eastern time. There is a lot to learn and a lot to see in this wild and dramatic adaptation from the BBC.
Photo source: BBC.co.uk
I had the privilege of being present in England during it's March debut there, and I can tell you it was seriously thrilling. Here is a list of the elements that drew me into this world of Georgian tin mining in Cornwall and kept me coming back for more.
The scenery! Could it be more vibrant, dramatic, sweeping and stirring? The wide shots of the rugged Cornish coast add heaps of character to this series. When this scenery is added to the plot of an exciting new period drama, the result is rather magical.
Photo source: BBC.co.uk
And as with many of the most memorable period dramas, every episode leaves you in a horridly pleasing suspense over the fate of nearly every character and all their hopes, dreams or predicaments. 'Poldark' has a roller coaster of a story, especially since it is tied up with the fortunes of the impetuous and daring Ross Poldark, played by Aidan Turner. He is a young man who has returned from the Revolutionary War in America, trying to survive the in the uncertain world of 18th century tin mining and navigate the sometimes vicious world of Georgian society, which is made up of many other members of the ancient but unstable Poldark family.
Photo source: aidanturner-daily.tumblr.com
Speaking of Ross Poldark, Aidan Turner is pretty charming. Yet, as ruggedly handsome as he is in his smart Georgian suits, and as recklessly brave as he is as he grapples with the mining industry, what is the most striking thing about Ross is his unbending sense of justice. He not only sees injustice and brings it to the attention of others, but he does something about it - whatever he can - to help those who are being exploited or in need. He doesn't always succeed, and he doesn't always think through his plans, but one cannot doubt his good intentions and his loyalty to those he loves and claims responsibility for. Of course, his sweet, twinkly, roguish smile does make him nearly impossible to dislike. :)
Photo source: BBC.co.uk
Elinor Tomlinson as Demelza: it seems to me that everyone goes on about Aidan Turner
without appreciating this young lady's unique and spirited performance. I
loved watching her play a beautifully gentle and elegant Georgiana
Darcy in 'Death Comes to Pemberley,' when she displayed a talent for
producing poignant moments, so I was looking forward to another
exceptional performance from her. Even so, she certainly surprised me!
Her character was totally different from Georgiana: unrefined, tough and
tomboyish, wearing trousers that she had stolen from her brother and
sleeping with her ragged dog Garrick. Her performance was still unique,
but her portrayal brought to life the struggles of a poor young woman in
the wilds of Cornwall, and it was fascinating to see.
Of course we all know this is coming... the costumes! I just like them. I admire that the designer made the clothes to be realistic and practical. These are clothes that can be lived in. There are not many women's clothes to see, although I do enjoy seeing the evolution of Demelza's wardrobe and taste, but the men's are certainly abundantly present, as well as fascinating. We get to see them up close, and examine the fabric and contents of a Georgian gentleman's wardrobe, from laborers to the upper classes.
I learned about history! I mean, seriously, before this show, who knew anything about tin mining in Cornwal during the 18th century? Who even cared? But it is a secret no longer, known only to a select few of British historians. It is now rather a small phenomenon. I had no idea this went on during the 1780s! But I always love learning of the existence of a whole new set of people, and that their memory and history are not being lost in the mists of time, but are being appreciated by the people of our day and age.
I must say that for most people this will not be the sort of thing you would watch if you want to be cheered up. The story is one that is filled with social and personal turmoil, reflecting the time and place where it is set. That is not to say that it is precisely dark, for it has its fair share of happy human moments that are consistent with its undercurrent of hope and the unquenchable determination of Ross Poldark himself. That being said, however, the series is a far from relaxing one!
For those of us with rather particular sensibilities, I must add a cautionary note that there are some acts we would not admire or approve of. Ross's character is occasionally a little tarnished, but he is human and a star of a popular 21ist century TV drama, so it is not especially surprising.Yet I hope you all will enjoy the better parts of the story, as I have! It is unique and dramatic, and very exciting if you enjoy British history!
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