webber-george It might take you a couple of attempts to sit down and watch this film, its a little slow to get going and certain characters might tempt you to give up. Don't! Please give it the respect it deserves and allow it to play on I promise you won't be disappointed. This is a beautiful yet powerful drama. Its true that some drama's push a certain political correctness at you this drama is more story telling in nature with a hint of liberalism in it. Its a thought provoking drama, which I myself thoroughly enjoyed. The production was beautifully done There has been criticism of the quality of acting with some calling it poor or wooden and I can see where they are coming from, but I myself found it very good, I just think compared to some of the shows around maybe I have different tastes to others.I think its wonderful and recommend you watch it and form your own opinions.

Amy Smith Kudos to Andrew Davies who continues to spook me out with his grasp on the mores and idiosyncrasies of English society of yesteryear. (I think he is secretly utilizing a time machine) The casting is flawless; Bonneville's character is almost intrinsically wicked. Although he illustrates that he is a man who understands financial investments, his dearth of understanding of the necessity of genuine emotional investments becomes his undoing. It may seem simplistic, but one hand does wash the other.....I expected Scacci's spurned mistress to have more sympathy for one as blinded as indeed she was when still young and alluring. Greta is formidable as a woman facing the aspect of Grandcourt's ultimate disloyalty, as she herself was disloyal to a spouse who must have trusted her to some degree... Daniel Deronda himself is much more than highly likable; he is a hero of the first order......This film is truly worth watching.

Lasker As a film of social and interpersonal dimension, Daniel Deronda is impressive. It is refreshingly easy to forgive that it is not an Ivory production complete with exquisite costumes, sets, and revelatory photography. There is an engaging account to make up for it.The series encapsulates the respective stories of the heroic Daniel Deronda and the spoiled aristocrat, Gwendolyn Harleth whose lives first intertwine at a casino. The first images of the roulette and the covert glances Gwendolyn and Daniel share transport us immediately into the Victorian period with its secrets, niceties, and excesses. It is the only period that such a film could take place. Their encounter is a chance one. She is called away, once she receives the news, to attend to her impoverished family; he is not a gambler. Yet, his return of the jewels she sold to provide money for her family lays the foundation of their relationship that lasts until the end of the series. Gwendolyn, despite her self-centeredness and arrogance, sees value in him that transcends her attraction. His generosity is an impression which deepens each time she sees him, and, to a degree, transforms her.Romola Garai masterfully registers the complexities of Gwendolyn Harleth, who is the more pivotal character. Her facial and vocal expressions continually convey the conflicts in her nature that on one hand consists of a superficial expectation of wealth, and on the other hand contains her desire to be a better person than she could possibly become. Gwendolyn's decisions, involving situations which are morally complex, result continuously in dichotomies that benefit some to the absolute detriment of others. She is haunted by these ambiguities, her uncomfortable reflections on her motivations, and her tragic belief in Daniel Deronda. That she often suffers as a result of circumstances and conscience, does not give her comfort. Yet the initial understanding of her lack of substance disappears. Her character is considered the most impressive ever written by Eliot, and Garai is award-worthy in capturing her.Hugh Dancy has the requisite gallantry and innocence of Deronda, who finds a social purpose in aiding the Jewish people in their pursuit of their homeland. His romantic interest in Gwendolyn is a fascinating aspect that gives the series its thrilling effect. One is compelled to wonder and hope throughout if they will have a future together.

Jay Harris This is an adaption of George Eliot's 1876 novel.To be sure, this is a Victorian novel of fine & not so fine Ladies & Gentlemen found in the Surrey area of the United Kingdom. (the novel is set during the American War Between the States, The mini-series is set in 1874. The novel was written in 1876..Andrew Davies wrote this lively, interesting script of various life styles of the period,using much humour.Tom Hooper directed this huge cast with ease. It was filmed in many areas of the UK & Scotland, with ending scenes in Malta (subbing got 1875 Genoa Italy).As typical of Victorian novels, we have handsome heroes, beautiful heroines,assorted friends, relatives & assorted other hangers-on. & of course a dastardly villain or 2.All these persons create our tale of the life of the Idle Rich & hard working poor of the times, This thanks to the fine script & direction is told with humour. This is not your usual dull masterpiece theatre plays of the more recent variety.Hugh Dancy is our Hero Daniel Deronda & what a fine lad he is. Romola Gerai & Jodai May are are heroines Gwen & Mirah.Dan loves both, OH what to do, Gwen is spoiled, Mirah is poor & with a past. Plot does thicken, as now we have a villain to contend withHugh Bonnevill as Harliegh a nasty,dastardly man & David Garber as his toady Lush.Add to this mix James Fox as Sir Hugo who looks after Daniel & Barbara Hershey as the mysterious countess who is----( I am not telling you) Also one of my favourite actresses Greta Scaachi is Lydia,is she really that devious. I am not telling.The sets, costumes music etc, is pitch perfect.The running time including credits. is a very fast 210 minutes.ratings **** (out of 4) 99 points (out of 100) IMDb 10 (out of 10)