The Forsyte Saga, a period drama that first aired on ITV in 2002, has been praised as a must-watch for fans of Downton Abbey. Starring Damian Lewis and Gina McKee, the series chronicles three generations of the upper-middle-class Forsyte family, exploring possessive love and the tension between Victorian morals and individual liberty.
Plot and Cast
Based on the novels by John Galsworthy, the ITV adaptation spans two series and 10 episodes, concluding in 2003. The central story follows the stiff and headstrong solicitor Soames Forsyte (Damian Lewis) and his unhappy marriage to the beautiful, conflicted Irene (Gina McKee). According to the synopsis, Soames views Irene as a possession rather than an equal, and the resulting clash between his obsessive control and her need for freedom tears the family apart.
Damian Lewis on Playing Soames
Discussing his portrayal, Damian Lewis told PBS Masterpiece: "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."
Critical Acclaim
Over the years, The Forsyte Saga has garnered considerable acclaim, with some calling it one of the finest productions ever made. One viewer remarked: "Superb Victorian Drama With Stellar Cast - Powerfully Moving!" Another wrote: "Wow. I can take or leave some historical dramas, but The Forsyte Saga had me hooked." A further comment read: "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." Another added: "The Forsyte Saga is one of the best television series I have ever seen." While one viewer 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."
Recent Adaptation
More recently, Channel 5 produced a fresh adaptation of the classic novel, featuring Dexter Seaton, Francesca Annis, Eleanor Tomlinson, and Jack Davenport. This new series places greater emphasis on female characters while incorporating fresh storylines. The Forsyte Saga is available to watch on ITVX.
