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micealbolger
Reviews
The Favourite (2018)
Absolute vulgar!!
I endured this movie for an hour, and than had enough. To say that this is vulgar would be an understatement. Yes, we're used to seeing 'period dramas' through rose-tinted glasses, so to speak; but I fail to see why this movie has received so much attention, and it is certainly NOT funny! If you like period dramas to be aesthetically pleasing and high on etiquette; then avoid this at ALL costs.
Vanity Fair (2018)
Diversity Mafia strike again
When contemporary songs are used to complement the opening credits of an historic drama; you get the impression that this is not going to be a good series -think of the Halcyon, and draw your own conclusions.
The main protagonist, Miss Becky Sharp, has attitude from the beginning ...which is fine on the likes of Corrie or Eastenders, but rather out of place in a period drama; set in the 'polite society' of the Regency Period. Of course, we live in the real world, but what we love about period dramas is the sense of escapism from our world. Needless to say, Miss Sharp's attitude, and other aspects of the first episode, is clearly directed at a younger audience.
Meanwhile back in the real world; the UK & Ireland benefit greatly from the cultural richness of diversity; more specifically, ethnic diversity. However, there is a new trend in period dramas; where historical accuracy is blatantly compromised in favour of including ethnic diversity; for the sake of ethnic diversity.
In Vanity Fair, the character in question is very handsome, impeccably dressed and choreographed to be 'seen' in as many scenes as possible ...but anyone with any sense of historic awareness would find it difficult to believe that an ethnic minority would have enjoyed such a privileged position in high society; albeit as a footman. Unfortunately, when it comes to casting on ITV dramas, it's the Diversity Mafia who have the final say.
Mícheál Bolger
Southern Ireland
Victoria: Comfort and Joy (2017)
Very disappointing Christmas Special
Season One was very enjoyable viewing; whilst Season Two was somewhat lacklustre; save one or two episodes, including the one which focused on the Irish Famine. Whilst there is no doubt that Daisy Goodwin is an expert on Victoria and has produced a fine drama, part of the disappointment with Season Two lays in the fact that she is going to great lengths to be politically correct. A recurring theme of several episodes in Season Two is the love story between two of Victoria's male courtiers.
Being PC is taken a step further in the Christmas Special, with the introduction of Sarah; an African child given to Victoria as a "gift". At a time when the UK of Great Britain & Ireland were all but 100% white, the writer/producer has gone to great lengths to ensure some degree of diversity; just for the sake of it. The result is a rather dull story line that fails to inspire. Very disappointing Christmas viewing...
MB (Southern Ireland)
Victoria: Faith, Hope & Charity (2017)
Excellent Episode
Season One was highly entertaining viewing; not least because it intertwined the coming of age of the 18-year-old Victoria with the social and political events of the period. Most, if not all episodes were worth watching a second time because there was a nice blend of drama, intrigue and historical events.
However, whilst episodes 1-5 of Season Two have been rather lacklustre; Faith, Hope & Charity was an excellent episode because it presented a sympathetic and balanced view of events in Ireland in 1847. Apart from the usual sub-plots, this episode was primarily about the Irish Famine; albeit a snapshot from a small parish in West Cork.
OK, so let's not get into the complex relationship between Britain & Ireland (we're best friends today) but for the British viewer, I dare say that this episode highlights the dark period in Irish history that has too often been overlooked; especially the religious bigotry. However, to the Irish viewer , it gives us a better understanding as to why the government was reluctant to intervene, and a better understanding of Sir Robert Peel's personal struggle between his social conscience and his position as Prime Minister.
Though, let's be honest, Miss Cleary –a lowly servant –would probably not have had an impromptu private audience with the Queen on the subject of the Irish Famine; but the scene is used to good dramatic effect at the end. Otherwise, top marks for this episode. Have your hankies on the ready Míċeál Bolger (Southern Ireland)