Gentleman Jack [DVD] [2019]

Proper British series. How People cope in those days with their high standards all of it false. Behind closed doors they were animals acting out their deepest fantasy. To be gay in those days wasn't just dangerous it was life destroying. Well played I think British movies and series are hitting new highs. We have a rich history let's exploit it. Fantastic.

Basing their philosophy on the premise that it's sex that makes the world go round producers of television series make sure the world's rotation is not hindered by any lack of it. To this end they include as much sex of all types as their series can accommodate. From time to time, however, certain aspects of sex are dealt with seriously, comprehensively and sympathetically without attempts to proselytise or titillate the content. An outstanding example is 'Gentleman Jack'. This exceptionally good series shows what can be done when you get the right producers, directors, writers, actors and the rest of the team coming together, believing in what they are doing and are determined to create something worthwhile and not just another sexy pot-boiler. 'Gentleman Jack' is based on the diaries of Anne Lister (1791-1840) and more specifically on the coded parts dealing with her lesbian relationships, particularly with Ann Walker. The writing, directing and acting are superb, or as they say nowadays, 'brilliant'. Sally Wainwright, the creator and writer of the series, has the ability to write realistic dialogue for all occasions, whether it be for talking business, when engaged in an argument, having a light-hearted chat or indeed any other situation. There are times, though, when her twenty-first century English sounds a little incongruous in an 1832 setting. One example of Wainwright's writing is in Lister's mini dissertation on the wonders of the human brain, which leaves Ann Walker gazing at her in admiration. Another example is when she has Lister succinctly summing up the role of women in society: 'You will get married, become a mother and later a grandmother. You will then have fulfilled your destiny on the planet.' The landscape of Halifax and the surrounding area, together with the various subplots, especially the business deals, all help to sustain the main theme and give it credibility. Anne Lister is not a two-dimensional figure of popular fiction but a highly intelligent, cultured, landowning businesswoman, beautifully played here by Suranne Jones, perfectly supported by Sophie Rundle, who plays Ann Walker, and a wonderful cast of first-class actors. Needless to say, as in all British productions, there is plenty of wine being drunk, so much, in fact, that one wonders if maybe it's drink and not sex that makes the world go round.

I’m delighted the Suranne Jones / Sally Wainwright and the Maxine Peake / James Kent dramatisations of Anne Lister’s diaries are each unique and both brilliant.We seem to have gone from a bit of a famine since the five-star Portrait of a Marriage, to a relative feast. Three more stand-out series involving lesbian relationships (I’m including the super-smart, discomforting Killing Eve) in the last few years. Perhaps I shouldn’t feel quite so grateful, but I do.Apart from wonderful portrayals by Suranne Jones and Sophie Rundle, Gemma Whelan perfectly pitches her character as a strong - and often hilarious - foil to her dynamic, compelling older sister. (I’m not sure if Ms Whelan appeared in Gentleman Jack before Killing Eve, but she’s well and truly discovered now as a top talent.) Then Sophie Rundle’s Annie Walker finds her own sweet strength towards the end. Beautifully done.Let’s start thanking people. Thank you, Sally Wainwright and company. And I see that both Lister dramatisations, Killing Eve and Portrait if a Marriage are all BBC productions.. So thank you, BBC. I’ve just paid my licence fee, and although it’s a stretch for many of us in the poorer majority, I do feel happy (!) at contributing to the production of such first rate drama.If you’re looking for a tonic, and you’re a gay woman or you simply love love (either or both will do), then Gentleman Jack is one to get.

Every aspect of this production exceeded my expectations – 5 StarsThis DVD includes three discs covering all seven episodes from the first series of ‘Gentleman Jack’. In addition, there are bonus features which take a closer look at some of the processes involved in producing and filming. Certainly, a series that deserves to be watched more than once, this inexpensive DVD packs-in more than seven hours of top-quality viewing.I always anticipate good things from the BBC whenever they produce a new drama, but ‘Gentleman Jack’ is truly outstanding. From Sally Wainwright’s wonderful script, to the superb casting, and gorgeous filming, the attention to detail is stunning. If it were an entirely fictitious story it would be entertaining, but being inspired by the actual diary of the intriguing Ann Lister takes this excellent series to another level altogether. It has played a huge role in ensuring the historical record of this charismatic and brilliant woman is brought to the public’s attention.Overall: Hugely entertaining, and an exceptionally classy production. Highly recommended.

Suranne Jones is brilliant and really brings Anne Lister to life. The story is generally based on the life of Anne Lister of Shibden Hall, Halifax but the writer Sally Wainwright has obviously used quite a bit of poetic licence because, let's face it, it's meant to entertain. Sophie Rundle is also very good as Ann Walker and the pair together make the programme very, very watchable. In fact, the whole cast are amazing.What a woman Anne Lister was - 200 years ago, a landowner and taking on the men at business. Way ahead of her time.

So pleased I have not missed out in seeing this production by the BBC. Another great production. Just for the socio-economic and historical insight and value. It is based on a true story!