phil-street

I remember watching this as a child.It was serialised on the BBC.I can remember hiding behind our settee during the scene that contained the mad Mrs Rochester.Although modern dramatisations of the book may be considered to be better produced, I find my mind quickly jumping back to those scary moments all those years ago. I have little recollection of the individual performances of the actors and actresses but the impressive cast list leads me to believe that it must have been an excellent production. Casting the late great Stanley Baker in the role as Mr Rochester might appear to some to have been perhaps a poor decision but in those early days of television fine acting choice must have been limited.Nevertheless, with Stanley Baker, black and white and a wonderful story line such a production would be difficult match even today

As mini series go they do not come much better than this. A brilliant portrayal of what life was like for those unfortunate people who found themselves without work at the beginning of the 1980's. A depressing testament to the power wielded by political leaders and the total indifference shown by those in work to those without it. All young and sceptical people bored by the stories told them by parents who were affected by events portrayed in this series should take a look see. Then they will realise that the stories they have heard are in fact true. A lesson for all which, when once seen, must never be forgotten. Comedy, pathos, bathos you name it, it has it all. Wonderfully acted. Not a poor performance anywhere to be seen. Has great educational value.