The Forsyte Saga: A Must-Watch for Period Drama Enthusiasts
The British period drama television series The Forsyte Saga, which first aired on ITV in 2002, has been hailed as a gripping production perfect for fans of Downton Abbey. The series stars Damian Lewis and Gina McKee and was filmed in Liverpool.
The adaptation, which originally broadcast over 20 years ago, chronicles three generations of the upper-middle-class Forsyte family. It examines possessive love and the conflict between strict Victorian principles and individual liberty.
Based on John Galsworthy's Renowned Novels
The series draws from the renowned series of novels and short stories by English author John Galsworthy, who also penned A Modern Comedy and End of the Chapter. The ITV version comprises two series, with the second concluding in 2003, and features 10 episodes in total, according to the Mirror.
A synopsis reads: "The central story follows the stiff and headstrong solicitor Soames Forsyte (Damian Lewis) and his unhappy marriage to the beautiful, conflicted Irene (Gina McKee). Soames views Irene as a possession rather than an equal, and the resulting clash between his obsessive control and her desperate need for personal freedom ultimately tears the family apart."
Damian Lewis on Portraying Soames Forsyte
Discussing his portrayal of Soames in the period drama, Damian Lewis told PBS Masterpiece in the past: "We didn't want a simple villain in Soames. I think it's more challenging for the audience if they're presented with a character they hate but also feel sympathy for, who presents them with moral questions and has them thinking, God, I feel so sorry for Soames, but he just raped his wife! That's far more interesting."
Viewer Praise Over the Years
Throughout the years, numerous viewers have lavished praise upon the period drama, with some describing it as amongst the finest productions ever made. One person said: "Superb Victorian Drama With Stellar Cast - Powerfully Moving!" Someone else wrote: "Wow. I can take or leave some historical dramas, but The Forsyte Saga had me hooked."
Another commented: "Flawless In Every Respect! At 65 years of age, I have seen my share of movies and plays, and I would have to say that this series is simply one of the, if not THE best productions I have ever had the pleasure of viewing."
Someone else added: "The Forsyte Saga is one of the best television series I have ever seen." While one person shared: "Engrossing, I thoroughly enjoyed. The characters were played brilliantly. The story is relatable and gripping. Damian Lewis was excellent as the emotionally challenged and socially awkward patriarch. But Gina McKee was mesmerising."
New Adaptation by Channel 5
Channel 5 has recently produced a fresh adaptation of the beloved classic novel, with the reimagined version featuring Dexter Seaton, Francesca Annis, Eleanor Tomlinson, and Jack Davenport. The new series, however, places greater emphasis on the female characters while also incorporating brand new storylines.
The Forsyte Saga is available to watch on ITVX.
