This amazing British mini-series is a must see if you can find it. I am not sure if it ever appeared on American TV, which is a shame. Each performance is only more incredible than the last, and some, such as those of Kathy Burke and Kerry Fox, are towering. One's respect for those actresses leaps. The series grips the dark and grungy industrial world of the time, with its religious sects, with unsparing clarity, and equally unsparing full frontal female nudity, which is perhaps why it has not been seen on American TV. I recommend keeping a "favorite" search for it on eBay, and hoping you are lucky enough to find a copy. Technically, the DVD version looks more like a VHS. The soundtrack is in good stereo, and the music is appropriate and beautifully written. This is a sleeper gem that is worth searching for.
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j-kilbourne13 February 2005
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carolyn-312 November 2000Yes, it has Minnie Driver and Jonathan Pryce and was directed by Danny Boyle; but those aren't the only reasons to watch this amazing film. Shot beautifully in northern England, it examines life in a closed religious cult in the 1830s. The cult is led by prophet John Wroe, an intense, powerful man, who asks his congregation to give him seven virgins to look after his needs. This story -- of life within Wroe's house, of the women who live there and the life-changing events that occur -- is told from the viewpoint of four of the women, each with a different perspective. The principal actors all give incredible performances, and the stories are resonant and unforgettable. Jane Rogers's screenplay, based on her novel of the same name, is practically flawless.
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silwood9 December 2005I can remember this programme as being one of the best television experiences i have ever had - fantastic acting and stunning script!! Kathy Burke indeed is one of the finest actors going and a real change from here HArry Enfield and Friends and Gimmie Gimmie Gimmie days of comedy acting - she really can portray the down trodden with massive ability! A real shame she is now concentrating more on Directing (Theatre) and really no longer acting as much! Looking to get a copy has been a real problem but the BBC (http://www.bbcshop.com) are releasing a DVD version in March 2006. I have placed my order £11.99 - already! can't wait! This one TV mini Series that you really must watch!