I know I did a review of Lost In Austen after the first episode, but we've now how all four episodes and I felt I couldn't let them pass by. Did you enjoy it? I have to say, after the slightly clumsy first episode where she walks through a secret door in her bathroom into the attic of the Bennet's house, I loved it.
There was something for fans of Jane Austen's Pride & Prejudice and for those who don't know much about it (like my husband - and he loved it too). Obviously if you know the story inside out you would get the subtle jokes, but if you didn't then it was still a beautifully shot, romantic comedy.
What I really enjoyed were the twists on the original story, what might have been happening behind what Jane Austen didn't say. I won't give any specifics away but there were twists with Wickham's story, with Mrs Bennet's character, and who knew that about Caroline Bingley?
I thought Jemima Rooper played the comic and dramatic brilliantly in her portrayal as Amanda Price. Her facial expressions were just right. Who else did I like? Well all of them to be honest. I didn't think there was a duff character or actor in there.
But what about Mr.Darcy (played by Elliot Cowan). I know I agreed that he was no Colin Firth in the first episode but he grew on me (so to speak). There was some great romantic tension between him and Amanda in the third episode leading to the scene in the ornamental pond. Where he loosened his shirt. Then I suddenly saw a whole different side to him. (Yes I know, I'm as shallow as the pond.)
The series has been a critical success, and the ending was left slightly open, but I don't think the ratings were as high as ITV1 hoped. I for one though will be glued to my set if they make a sequel or even do a twist into another classic novel.
For those who missed it, the series is being released on DVD from 29 September.
If you became a fan of Jemima whilst watching Lost In Austen, she will be on our screens on Sunday in an episode of Poirot called The Third Girl (ITV1 at 9pm). A preview can be seen here.
