In the "Mr. Selfridge" Season 1 finale, the day that explorer Ernest Shackleton is slated to give a lecture at the store is marred by a tragedy. Later, a special guest enjoys an after-hours shopping excursion; and Harry and Rose attend a scandalous play.
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Harry faces fierce competition from F.W. Woolworth, who's brought his U.S.-based discount chain to England. In other events, the relationship between Agnes and Henri heats up.
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Arthur Conan Doyle convinces Harry to allow a séance to be held at the store. In other events, Agnes transfers to the fashion department and develops a closer relationship with Henri.
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Mr. Grove takes charge in Harry's absence, but faces a plethora of problems, including a suffragette march that's supposed to pass in front of the store. In other events, Agnes gets to know Henri, the window dresser.
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Spunky Agnes Towler returns to work; Harry and Rose face a moment of truth; a drunken Harry gets behind the wheel of a car; and a despondent Ellen turns to pills.
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Harry invites a famous ballerina to appear at the store, but the publicity event doesn't go as planned thanks to Ellen Love; Rose comes clean about her identity to Roddy.
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Harry bucks convention by placing the cosmetics department at the front of the store. In other events, his personal life turns complicated due to Ellen Love, Lady Mae and Rose.
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The story of flamboyant Harry Gordon Selfridge (Jeremy Piven), the American founder of the lavish London department store Selfridges & Co., opens with his plans to launch the store waylaid when his business partner pulls out of the project.
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The Season 3 finale of "Downton Abbey" finds the family, save for Branson and little Sybil, heading to a Scottish hunting lodge owned by Rose's parents. In other events, Mrs. Patmore is wooed by a local merchant; a new maid has eyes for Branson; and the staff takes in a fair in Thirsk, an event that also attracts Dr. Clarkson and Isobel.
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As "Downton Abbey" continues, Robert is keen on putting together a viable team for the annual cricket match against the town.
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As "Downton Abbey" continues, Cora and Robert stop speaking to each other; the servants shun Isobel; and Matthew and Robert are at odds.
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As "Downton Abbey" continues, Edith is asked to pen a newspaper column; Isobel offers Ethel a position in her household; Matthew questions the management of the estate; and Sybil goes into labor while Dr. Clarkson disagrees with the esteemed obstetrician Robert hired to oversee the delivery.
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Tom and the pregnant Sybil arrive at Downton after an incident in Ireland has left Tom a wanted man; Edith has a letter in support of women's suffrage published in a newspaper.
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The future of Downton Abbey rests on a letter written by Lavinia's late father to Matthew. In other events, Edith prepares for her wedding to Sir Anthony; Mrs. Hughes receives news from Dr. Clarkson; Bates has trouble with his cellmate; and Thomas feeds false information about O'Brien to Molesley.
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The third season of "Downton Abbey" commences with the family and staff preparing for Mary and Matthew's wedding; and Cora's mother (Shirley MacLaine) arriving from the U.S. Robert, meanwhile, receives bad news about an investment; O'Brien arranges for her nephew to become the new footman; and Anna vows to prove John's innocence.
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In the Season 2 conclusion, Beryl and Harry eye marriage; Lady Agnes returns; a decision by Mr. Pritchard leads to chaos until an old friend lends a hand; and a shocking discovery may forever change the landscape at 165 Eaton Place.
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Mr. Pritchard wonders if there's more to life than service after he enters into a romance with a fellow servant while 165 Eaton Place prepares for the annual servants' ball. In other events, Harry has a proposition for Beryl; and Sir Hallam and Lady Persie continue their affair.
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Harry attempts to impress Beryl by taking up boxing; Lady Agnes and Sir Hallam drift further apart; American millionaire Casper Landry reenters Lady Agnes' life; Sir Hallam makes a major decision that could have life-altering implications.
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Blanche reunites with a former lover who published a scandalous, thinly veiled novel about their affair; Beryl disrupts the running of the house; Lady Persie and Sir Hallam become closer after she shares a shocking secret with him.
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Lady Agnes receives bad news as well as organizes a dinner party, during which she attracts the attentions of a wealthy American. In other events, a decision by Mrs. Thackeray results in chaos; and Blanche and Mr. Amanjit set aside their differences in an effort to rescue Jewish children from Germany.
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Season 2 of "Upstairs Downstairs" commences with two new arrivals at 165 Eaton Place: Sir Hallam's Aunt Blanche and maid Beryl. In other events, a secret about Mr. Pritchard is revealed; and Sir Hallam's concern about Nazi Germany leads to trouble.
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In "Wallander: Before the Frost," the Swedish cop investigates an arson-murder linked to a schizophrenic while also searching for a friend of Linda's who vanished after a bizarre visit with him. The latter leads to an uneasy reconciliation with Linda, who shares surprising news with her father.
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"Wallander: The Dogs of Riga" finds Wallander playing host to a Riga, Latvia, police major while investigating the murders of two Latvian men whose bodies were discovered in a raft that washed ashore in Sweden. After the major returns home and is killed, Wallander heads to Latvia to lend a hand in that case, and he is soon immersed in a hunt for the major's missing case files, which may document high-level corruption within the Riga police force.
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"Wallander: An Event in Autumn" finds the morose Swedish detective's life taking a turn for the better when he and Vanja move into a quaint country house together. The good times can't last, however: A decade-old corpse is found buried on their property. At the same time, he investigates the case of a pregnant woman who either jumped or was pushed from a ferry.
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In "Inspector Lewis: The Indelible Stain," Lewis and Hathaway investigate the murder of a visiting American academic (David Soul) who courted controversy with a theory that many critics construed as thinly veiled racism.
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"Inspector Lewis: Fearful Symmetry" finds Lewis and Hathaway investigating the murder of a babysitter, who may not have been the intended target given that she was a last-minute fill-in. The case introduces them to a side of Oxford they know little about: swinging and fetish photography.
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In "Inspector Lewis: Generation of Vipers," Lewis investigates the death of a lonely college professor who had become an object of ridicule after the video she made for an Internet dating site was posted on a subversive media blog.
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"Inspector Lewis: The Soul of Genius" finds Lewis and Hathaway's investigation into the murder of an English professor running into difficulties due to the interference of an amateur detective and two students.
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Endeavour
Season 42, Episode 16
Set in 1965, the "Inspector Morse" prequel "Endeavour" finds rookie constable Endeavour Morse helping with the investigation into the murder of a 15-year-old girl.
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Season 2 of "Sherlock" concludes with "The Reichenbach Fall," which finds the sleuth's reputation in tatters after Moriarty pulls off three ingenious capers in a day. He then plants seeds of doubt in the press about Sherlock's deductive abilities by making it appear as if his past successes were staged. Loosely based on Arthur Conan Doyle's "The Final Problem" short story.
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"Sherlock: The Hounds of Baskerville" finds Sherlock and Watson investigating a murder that occurred 20 years earlier. It was witnessed by the victim's son, who claims his father was killed by a monstrous hound. The case takes the pair to the British moors, where a top-secret military base is said to be the site of animal-mutation experiments.
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The second series of "Sherlock" opens with "A Scandal in Belgravia," in which the idiosyncratic sleuth becomes a media sensation because of Watson's blog. And he's asked by his brother to retrieve scandalous photos of a British royal from a dominatrix. The case proves to be anything but simple, however, as it soon involves international terrorism, CIA agents and a matter Holmes is decidedly unfamiliar with: love.
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Birdsong
Season 42, Episode 12
Conclusion. "Birdsong." Wraysford and his men take part in one of the bloodiest battles ever recorded, the Battle of the Somme.
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Birdsong
Season 42, Episode 11
Part 1 of 2. "Birdsong," an adaptation of the Sebastian Faulks novel about a British lieutenant in World War I whose memories of a prewar romance with a married French woman both sustain and haunt him.
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An adaptation of Charles Dickens' "The Mystery of Edwin Drood," about an opium-addled choirmaster who believes his nephew stands between him and the woman he fancies. When the nephew goes missing, the question becomes whether the choirmaster acted on his vivid fantasies of murdering his perceived rival or if someone else did the deed. Writer Gwyneth Hughes ("Miss Austen Regrets") finished the famously unfinished tale based on clues left by Dickens.
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The conclusion of Charles Dickens' "Great Expectations" finds Pip in London, where his guardian explains his allowance to him. In time, he learns the ways of gentlemen; falls further in love with Estella; and discovers the identity of his benefactor.
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Part 1 of 2. Charles Dickens' "Great Expectations" opens with the orphaned Pip, who lives with his sister and brother-in-law, pilfering a metal file for an escaped convict who needs it to break free from his chains. Pip is also sent to the home of an eccentric spinster for a very odd playdate with the woman's adopted daughter.
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Season 2 of "Downton Abbey" concludes with the family gathering at Downton for Christmas and the New Year; and Bates on trial for the murder of Vera. In other events, Robert offers relationship advice to Mary; Matthew comes to terms with his guilt over Lavinia's death; Thomas connives to move up the ranks; Rosamund has a suitor who may be after her money and a new assistant stirs up trouble in the kitchen; Daisy becomes closer to William's father; and Edith reunites with a former suitor.
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"Downton Abbey" continues with the Spanish flu sweeping through the household and infecting Cora, Lavinia and Mr. Carson, among others. Mary, Sybil and Robert, meanwhile, each face a moment of truth; and Anna and Mr. Bates experience a moment of happiness.
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"Downton Abbey" continues with the household preparing for the war's end. While the family looks forward to having a private home again, cousin Isobel has other ideas for Downton. In other events, a wounded officer makes a startling claim that could alter the Downton succession plan; and Sir Richard and Mary go estate-hunting.
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"Downton Abbey" continues with Matthew and William engaging in a fierce battle at the front; Vera striking a cruel blow against Bates and Anna; and Daisy facing the severest test of her life.
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"Downton Abbey" continues with Isobel and Cora butting heads over control of Downton's medical role; Mrs. Bird launching a soup kitchen; and Matthew and William embarking on a perilous patrol behind German lines.
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The second season of "Downton Abbey" continues with the estate being turned into a convalescent home for wounded veterans. In other events, Lavinia and Sir Richard's secret comes out; Anna locates Bates; and Branson seizes his chance to strike a blow for Ireland.
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The second season of "Downton Abbey" opens during WWI with Matthew and Thomas in the trenches in France; and Robert and William longing to join the action. Sybil, meanwhile, finds unlikely support from her grandmother in her quest to help the war effort; Edith learns to drive; Mary struggles with her feelings for Matthew when he returns on leave from the war and attends a benefit concert at the estate with a new companion; and Carson is overwhelmed while running the house with a smaller staff.
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An adaption of Christopher Reid's "Song of Lunch" narrative poem, about a publishing house copy editor (Alan Rickman) who reunites with a former lover (Emma Thompson) for lunch 15 years after she left him for a successful author.
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Page Eight
Season 41, Episode 28
David Hare wrote and directed "Page Eight," about an aging MI5 intelligence analyst (Bill Nighy) who discovers information about a possible international scandal in a top-secret file that his best friend and boss (Michael Gambon) shares with him. At the same time, his suspicions are aroused by a beautiful neighbor (Rachel Weisz) and the over-eager would-be suitor (Tom Hughes) pursuing her; and struggles to repair his relationship with his daughter (Felicity Jones).
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Adapted from Kate Atkinson's "When Will There Be Good News?," this episode of "Case Histories" finds Scottish P.I. Jackson Brodie (Jason Isaacs) acquiring a teen partner (Gwyneth Keyworth) who wants him to find her missing employer in exchange for having saved his life after he's involved in a train wreck. In other events, Marcus is drawn into an infidelity case that Brodie's been trying to shake; and, while recouping in the hospital from his injuries, Brodie blurts a startling truth to Louise.
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The second "Case Histories" finds Jackson the lone witness to a possible drowning in the Firth of Forth, but has little to go on beyond the victim's earrings. In other events, a crime novelist (Adam Godley) intervenes in a case of road rage; a comatose crook's wife and dominatrix unexpectedly bond; and Jackson isn't sure he'll sign the necessary papers so that his daughter can move to New Zealand with her mother. Adapted from Kate Atkinson's "One Good Turn."
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The first of three engrossing "Case Histories" adapted from the popular Kate Atkinson novels finds Edinburgh, Scotland, private investigator Jackson Brodie (Jason Isaacs) looking into a 30-year-old missing-persons case; investigating the murder of a young woman; and locating the niece of a seductress. A stellar soundtrack of Americana music accents the mystery.
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In "Inspector Lewis: The Gift of Promise," Lewis and Fox investigate a brutal bludgeoning that, at first blush, appears to be a simple blackmail plot gone bad. Upon closer inspection, however, the case may be something far more dark and sinister.
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"Inspector Lewis: The Mind Has Mountains" finds Lewis and Hathaway attempting to determine whether the death of a college student is connected to her participation in a clinical drug study.
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In "Inspector Lewis: Wild Justice," Lewis and Hathaway investigate the poisoning at a religious college of an American female bishop, whom they suspect was slain for her progressive views. Their hunch is upended, however, when two additional murders follow, forcing them to develop a new theory for the case.
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"Inspector Lewis: Old, Unhappy, Far Off Things" finds Lewis and Hathaway investigating a murder that occurred during a reunion at an all-female Oxford college. Complicating matters: It may be linked to a similar, decade-old incident that also occurred at the college and was also investigated by Lewis.
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In "Ratking," Zen is assigned to the kidnapping of a wealthy industrialist and political party funder whom the Ministry of Justice wants returned alive at any cost. In other events, Zen's burgeoning affair with Tania is threatened by their new boss, who's a stickler for regulations, including the one against workplace romances.
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Zen: Cabal
Season 41, Episode 19
"Cabal." Zen investigates the death of a disgraced aristocrat who either jumped off a bridge or was pushed---possibly because of his plan to reveal the existence of a shadowy organization called the Cabal---while balancing the demands of superiors. A Justice Ministry official wants a suicide ruling, but a female prosecutor believes it should be classified a murder. At the same time, Zen deals with the prosecutor's advances and, like Tania, has difficulties putting his failed marriage to rest.
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In "Vendetta," suave Italian police detective Aurelio Zen (Rufus Sewell) reinvestigates a closed murder case. His boss insists that he confirm the original outcome while a justice official orders him---for political reasons---to reach another conclusion. Meanwhile, a psychopathic killer has targeted him for daring to send him to jail years earlier; and he finds himself attracted to the chief's married assistant (Caterina Murino).
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In "The Pale Horse," Miss Marple (Julia McKenzie) investigates the brutal murder of an old friend. The case leads her to an inn that houses an odd assortment of staff and guests, including a proprietor (Pauline Collins) who claims to use black magic.
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In "Hallowe'en Party," Poirot and Ariadne Oliver (Zoë Wanamaker) investigate the drowning death of a girl at a Halloween party who had claimed to have witnessed a murder years earlier.
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In "The Clocks," Poirot assists a Royal Navy lieutenant Colin Race (Tom Burke) with a murder investigation in which Race, whose fiancée was recently slain, and the suspect (Jaime Winstone) are growing increasingly close. The case presents a puzzle for Poirot, as four clocks in the room where the body was found are frozen on the same time (4:13), the victim has yet to be identified and possible witnesses deny seeing anything.
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"Three Act Tragedy." Hercule Poirot attends the party of a friend (Martin Shaw) where a guest dies an apparent natural death. His suspicion is raised weeks later, however, when an affair attended by many of the same guests is marred by a similar death.
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The conclusion of "South Riding" finds Robert facing difficulties due to his stand against political corruption. Sarah, meanwhile, faces a crisis of her own.
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Part 2 of 3 of "South Riding" finds Robert in danger of losing his estate due to family medical bills. As a result, he heads to Manchester in hopes of finding work; and, while there, runs into Sarah.
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Part 1 of a three-part adaptation of Winifred Holtby's 1936 novel "South Riding," about a teacher (Maxwell Martin) who returns home to Yorkshire to apply for the headmistress position at a girls' school; and butts heads with a landowner (David Morrissey), who dislikes her social agenda and pacifist views.
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The "Upstairs Downstairs" conclusion finds Hallam thrust into a national crisis when the Duke of Kent asks for his help; and making a shocking discovery about his past. Meanwhile, Agnes fears the arrival of her baby; Persie toys with fascism; and the servants fret about the silent Lotte.
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Part 2 of 3 of "Upstairs Downstairs" finds Hallam's diplomatic skills tested by Lady Agnes and Maud, whose relationship has yet to thaw. Meanwhile, a Jewish-German refugee (Helen Bradbury) is hired as a maid; and Lady Persie falls under the sway of a British fascist politician.
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Part 1 of 3. The continuation of "Upstairs Downstairs" begins in 1936, six years after the classic 1970s' series left off, with Sir Hallam and Agnes Holland (Ed Stoppard, Keeley Hawes) moving into the Bellamy family's former residence, 165 Eaton Place. To staff the house, Agnes turns to a domestic employment agency run by Rose Buck (original series star Jean Marsh), who worked for the family as a parlor maid. The new staff is put to the test during a party that could end Hallam's career.
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The involving "Any Human Heart" concludes with Logan back in London, low on cash and subsisting on a diet that includes dog food. All is not lost, however: He applies for a job with a hospital lobby group that, it turns out, is actually a terrorist cell. He also reunites with Gloria (Kim Cattrall) and inherits a villa in the French countryside, where he eventually moves. While there, he makes a new friend (Valerie Kaprisky) and sorts through his memories while trying to write a new novel.
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Part 2 of 3 of "Any Human Heart" finds Logan happy in his marriage to Freya; and, after WWII begins, recruited by old friend Ian Fleming (Tobias Menzies) to Naval Intelligence, where his duties include spying on the duke and duchess of Windsor (Tom Hollander, Gillian Anderson) and parachuting into Switzerland. Returning from the war, he faces a personal tragedy; and, 10 years hence, finds himself working at an NYC art gallery, remarried, drinking too much and seeing a shrink (Richard Schiff).
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Part 1 of 3 of the absorbing "Any Human Heart," adapted by William Boyd from his 2002 novel, about the eventful life of writer, lover, art dealer and spy Logan Mountstuart (played, at various ages, by Sam Claflin, Matthew Macfadyen and Jim Broadbent). Part 1 opens with the elderly Logan sifting through memories, beginning in the 1920s, when he pursued literature and the ladies at Oxford. In time, he achieves success as a novelist, travels abroad and is befriended by Hemingway (Julien Ovenden).
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The conclusion of "Downton Abbey" finds a surprising possible heir alternative to Matthew coming to the fore; Sybil's secret political life causing her harm; Anna investigating Mr. Bates' past while in London with Mrs. Patmore, who needs eye surgery; Mary meddling with Edith's romantic plans; and Thomas planning his exit strategy.
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Part 3 of 4 of "Downton Abbey." The rivalry between Mary and Edith reaches a fever pitch. In other events, Thomas and O'Brien plot against Mr. Bates while Anna's fondness for him grows; and Lady Violet's long winning streak at the annual flower show is threatened.
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Part 2 of 4 of "Downton Abbey" finds Mary entertaining three suitors, including a Turkish diplomat. In other events, much to his dismay, the former life of Mr. Carson is revealed; Mr. Bates risks his health in order to keep his post of valet; and the maid Gwen's aspirations for a profession beyond service become known.
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The "Masterpiece" season premiere features the engrossing "Downton Abbey," a four-part drama that begins in 1912, when the sinking of the Titanic punctures the succession plans of Lord Grantham (Hugh Bonneville), the father of three daughters, and inspires his wife (Elizabeth McGovern) and mother (Maggie Smith) to push him to separate his title from his estate, which are legally entailed to pass only to a man. The search settles on a young solicitor (Dan Stevens) unaccustomed to tawny trappings.
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Framed
Season 40, Episode 44
"Framed" is about the move of the National Gallery's art collection to a Wales mine for safekeeping (a la WWII) due to a plumbing disaster. Trevor Eve stars as a stodgy curator whose world is upended by a local teacher (Eve Myles) whose idea of art differs from his. At the same time, he forms an attachment to a young boy (Sam Davies) whose financially distressed family has fallen on even harder times since his father left. Adapted by Frank Cottrell Boyce from his popular children's book.
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Christopher Eccleston is terrific in the title role of "Lennon Naked," which charts John Lennon's transition from moptop to rock icon in the late 1960s. It explores his relationship with his father (Christopher Fairbank), who abandoned him when he was 6 only to reenter his life in 1964; his failing relationship with first wife Cynthia; his relationship with Yoko; and his therapy with primal scream-originator Arthur Janov, which inspired his classic "John Lennon/Plastic Ono Band" 1970 album.
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"Sherlock: The Great Game" finds Holmes challenged by a deranged bomber who straps his devices onto innocent people, before having them call the detective with a series of difficult mysteries to solve before he frees them, including a 20-year-old murder and a case involving a lost painting worth millions of pounds.
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In "Sherlock: The Blind Banker," Holmes and Watson investigate a bank break-in that resulted in nothing stolen, but strange graffiti left behind. The case leads to the discovery of a dead banker inside his locked flat that the police, though not Holmes, suspect was a suicide. In other matters, Watson applies for a part-time job and goes on a date, though---thanks to Holmes---the evening doesn't go as planned.
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The witty "Sherlock: A Study in Pink" reimagines the Arthur Conan Doyle sleuth as a "high-functioning sociopath" (Benedict Cumberbatch) in modern-day London who draws potential flatmate Watson (Martin Freeman), an Afghanistan War vet, into his orbit when they're paired together as potential flatmates by a mutual acquaintance. The pair's first case: suicides that stump Insp. Lestrade (Rupert Graves). Watson also meets a mysterious man who calls himself Sherlock's "arch-enemy."
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The suspenseful "Wallander: The Fifth Woman" finds the Swedish cop investigating a possible serial killer, whose brutal murders of older men amount to "public executions," while facing the barren landscape that's become his life. As his faltering father tells him, "you don't look at the world, you just drive straight through it." The point's further driven home during an unexpected reunion with his ex-wife and the case itself; even the victims, who bullied women, weren't as alone as he is.
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The rewarding "Wallander: The Man Who Smiled" finds the cop on leave and battling a major depression in the aftermath of having killed a man, and investigating the circumstances surrounding a friend's father's death, a request he initially rebuffed but, after his friend's apparent suicide, feels compelled to complete. The case leads to a philanthropist (Rupert Graves) and two persons trying to blackmail him, and unfolds at a languid pace that mirrors the lifting of Wallander's depression.
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The taut "Wallander: Faceless Killers" finds the weary Swedish cop(Kenneth Branagh) with his hands full: his dad is slipping further into dementia, he has mixed feelings about his daughter's Syrian beau, and he's working the slaying of an elderly couple at their isolated home. To make matters worse, the dying woman's last utterance has been leaked to the press as "foreign" (though she may well have said "farm"), leading to vigilante reprisals against migrant workers.
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"Inspector Lewis: Falling Darkness" finds Lewis and Hathaway investigating several murders that share a curious connection: their pathologist Laura Hobson (Clare Holman). Rupert Graves guest stars.
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"Inspector Lewis: Your Sudden Death Question" finds Lewis and Hathaway investigating the slaying of a quiz-competition contestant on the Oxford campus during the August bank holiday weekend.
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"Inspector Lewis: Dark Matter," in which Lewis and Hathaway investigate the slaying of the Gresham College master, an astronomy buff whose body was found near the university's observatory.
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In "Inspector Lewis: The Dead of Winter," the investigation into a murder that occurred on a tour bus leads Lewis and Hathaway to a sprawling Oxford estate where Hathaway lived as a child. Nathaniel Parker ("Inspector Lynley Mysteries") guest stars as a house guest with close ties to the estate owner's wife.
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"Inspector Lewis: Counter Culture Blues," in which Lewis---while on a disturbance call---discovers that a rock star (Joanna Lumley) believed to have died decades before is alive, plotting a comeback and possibly connected to the murder of a teenage boy whose body was found by a railway track.
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"Poirot: Appointment With Death" finds Hercule Poirot in the Middle East for an archaeological excursion with Lord Boynton (Tim Curry), whose rich, overbearing wife (Cheryl Campbell) is soon found stabbed to death. Suspects abound, from the three adoptive children she bullied, their prospective suitors and possibly, according to travel writer Dame Celia Westholme (Elizabeth McGovern), white slavers.
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"Poirot: The Third Girl," in which Poirot investigates the blood-soaked death of a former nanny. A troubled young heiress (Jemima Rooper) claims responsibility for the deed, but the sleuth doubts her guilt. Crime novelist and old friend Ariadne Oliver (Zoë Wanamaker) lends a hand in the case, which finds Poirot setting a trap in hopes of solving the mystery.
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Agatha Christie's "Murder on the Orient Express," in which a London-bound Hercule Poirot (David Suchet) investigates the death of an American businessman (Toby Jones)---who'd asked him for protection---on a train that's stuck in a snowdrift. He's aided in the investigation by an amateur sleuth (Samuel West) and the railway director (Serge Hazanavicius).
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"Miss Marple: The Blue Geranium," about the murder of wealthy Mary Pritchard (Sharon Small) in the village of Little Ambrose, where Marple's visiting old friend Rev. Milewater (David Calder), shortly after the unexplained death of a young man whom Marple had met on the bus ride to the town.
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"Miss Marple: The Secret of Chimneys," in which a weekend party hosted by Lord Caterham (Edward Fox) and attended by Marple (Julia McKenzie) leads to intrigue after one of the guests, Austrian count Ludwig Von Stainach (Anthony Higgins), goes missing. Complicating matters: The search reveals a decades-old murder that may be linked to the theft of a rare diamond.
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"Miss Marple: The Mirror Crack'd From Side to Side," in which Marple and Hewitt are on the case after a woman dies from a poisoned daiquiri at a benefit hosted by a star actress (Lindsay Duncan) and her director-husband (Nigel Harman), who've just moved to St. Mary Mead from Hollywood.
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"Foyle's War: The Hide" finds the newly retired Foyle involving himself in the case of a local man who's been condemned to death for collaborating with the Nazis during the war. In other events, Sam and Adam learn that they make an excellent team while working to save their rooming house.
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In "Foyle's War: Killing Time," tension results when black U.S. soldiers waiting to be sent home aren't welcomed by the locals. Complicating matters: a mixed-race baby raised by its English mother---and a brutal murder.
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Set in the aftermath of VE Day, "Foyle's War: The Russian House" finds the veteran police officer ready to retire but unable to do so because of a crime wave. Complicating matters even more: Foyle's assigned to catch an escaped Russian POW whose reason for fleeing becomes abundantly clear.
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The conclusion of the affecting "Small Island" picks up after WWII with Gilbert involved in a racist run-in and Hortense dealt a setback to her aspirations. Queenie, meanwhile, hides her pregnancy from everyone, including Bernard, who returns after a long absence wanting to evict the boarders. In other events, Hortense struggles with learning how to cook and to prepare British cuisine, and slowly begins to realize that there's more to Gilbert than she thought.
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Part 1 of a well-acted, two-part adaptation of Andrea Levy's "Small Island," about Jamaicans and Londoners during and after WWII. The drama opens in 1948 with the proud Hortense (Naomie Harris) arriving in London from her native Jamaica to find it nothing like she imagined, then flashes back to what led her to the present moment, including her marriage to a fellow Jamaican (David Oyelowo). Ruth Wilson costars as their landlady Queenie, who married for convenience, not love.
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The powerful "The Diary of Anne Frank" dramatizes the two years that the Jewish teenager, her family and four others hid in a secret annex above her father's office in Nazi-occupied Amsterdam. Ellie Kendrick is mesmerizing as the intense, headstrong teen, who copes with confinement by chronicling daily life in her diary. The strong cast also features Iain Glen as her optimistic father, Tasmin Greig as her mother, with whom Anne often disagrees, and Felicity Jones as her reserved sister Margot.
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In "Sharpe's Peril," the British lieutenant colonel and buddy Harper undertake what they think will be a simple mission in India: escorting the fiancée (Beatrice Rosen) of a major (Pascal Langdale). It's not to be, of course, as bandits attack them, forcing them to make an alliance with a rag-tag group that's led by a boy-soldier (Luke Ward Wilkinson). Barabbas Hakeswill: Amit Behl.
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"Sharpe's Challenge" finds the retired soldier Sharpe (Sean Bean) returning to action in order to rescue old pal Harper (Daragh O'Malley), who went missing while investigating a rebellious maharaja (Karan Panthaky) in India. Soon, Sharpe discovers that the rebellion is being stoked by the previous maharaja's consort (Padma Lakshmi) and a rogue British officer (Toby Stephens), who's complicated matters even further by holding the general's daughter (Lucy Brown) captive.
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A suspenseful adaptation of John Buchan's thriller "The 39 Steps," about former intelligence officer Richard Hannay (Rupert Penry-Jones), who's pursued by the police for a murder he didn't commit and German agents in the weeks leading up to WWI. After a secret agent (Eddie Marsan) hands him a coded notebook, Hannay is targeted by friends and foe alike, but finds an ally in suffragette Victoria Sinclair (Lydia Leonard), who soon joins him on the run.
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Emma
Season 40, Episode 5
The conclusion of "Emma" finds Emma and friends enjoying a picnic on Box Hill, but the outing turns cold when Mr. Knightley scolds her for insulting Miss Bates. Later, she faces up to a deceit by Frank Churchill and realizes whom she really loves, but fears she's lost him through her behavior. Of course, she hasn't. A marriage offer is in the offing, but her aging father, who doesn't wish to be left alone, isn't so sure he can abide by the arrangement.
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Emma
Season 40, Episode 4
Part 2 of 3 of "Emma" finds Emma attracted to the dashing Frank Churchill (Rupert Evans). Mr. Knightley, meanwhile, may be courting Jane Fairfax, who received a piano from a mysterious benefactor.
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Emma
Season 40, Episode 3
Part 1 of 3. A handsome production of Jane Austen's "Emma," starring Romola Garai as the somewhat clueless title character, who sets out to make a quality match for a pretty orphan (Louise Dylan). Mr. Knightley (Jonny Lee Miller) has his doubts, however.
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The conclusion of "Return to Cranford" features embezzlement and a train chase, as well as a possible romance between Peggy (Jodie Whittaker) and an aspiring engineer (Tom Hiddleston). In other events, visiting aristocrat Lady Glenmire (Celia Imrie) may not receive a warm welcome from the local ladies.
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Part 1 of 2. "Return to Cranford," the "Masterpiece Classic" season premiere, features the further adventures of "Cranford" characters, including Miss Matty (Judi Dench), who finds herself in a confrontation with the railroad. In other events, Lady Ludlow (Francesca Annis) welcomes home her son Septimus (Rory Kinnear), who turns Cranford upside down.
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Collision
Season 39, Episode 45
The conclusion of the riveting "Collision" takes some surprising turns, including one involving the reason furniture-van driver Danny Rampton fled from the scene of the accident. Tolin and Stallwood, meanwhile, follow up on the corporate-espionage case and learn what piano teacher Sidney Norris had hidden on his computer. In other events, Jane agrees to travel abroad with Richard and Brian tells his wife what happened with her mother.
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Collision
Season 39, Episode 44
Part 1 of 2. The engrossing "Collision," about a multi-vehicle accident on a British highway that left two dead, opens with D.I. John Tolin (Douglas Henshall) taking on the investigation, which finds him partnered with a former lover (Kate Ashfield). The two reconstruct what happened while investigating the drivers, including one who went missing from the crash site. The drama also delves into the lives of the survivors and a rest-stop waitress (Lucy Griffiths) who's pursued by one.
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The startling conclusion of "Place of Execution" finds Catherine (Juliet Stevenson) fired from the documentary on George Bennett's first major case, the disappearance of a teen girl some 45 years earlier, yet still pursuing leads as to what happened. To that end, she looks up the police sergeant (Dave Hill) who assisted him in the investigation. She also finds herself caring as best she can for her daughter (Elizabeth Day), whom she's brought with her on the investigation.
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Part 1 of 2 of "Place of Execution," about a TV journalist (Juliet Stevenson) whose piece on a high-profile police official leads her to question the results of his first big case, the disappearance of a 13-year-old girl some 45 years earlier. Old George Bennett: Philip Jackson. D.I. George Bennett: Lee Ingleby. Philip Hawkin: Greg Wise.
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Endgame
Season 39, Episode 31
"Endgame," about the negotiations that led to the end of apartheid in South Africa, which were instigated by a British businessman (Jonny Lee Miller) and featured Afrikaner academic Will Esterhuyse (William Hurt) and ANC representative Thabo Mbeki (Chiwetel Ejiofor). Rudolf Agnew: Derek Jacobi. Dr. Niel Barnard: Mark Strong. Nelson Mandela: Clarke Peters.
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"Inspector Lewis: The Point of Vanishing," about a death-by-drowning linked to an old murder attempt on Oxford don-celebrity atheist Tom Rattenbury (Julian Wadham) that left Rattenbury's daughter in a wheelchair. Jessica: Ophelia Lovibond. Cecile: Jenny Seagrove.
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"Inspector Lewis: Quality of Mercy." Lewis and Hathaway are on the case after a talented young actor is slain with a prop knife during a student production of Shakespeare's "The Merchant of Venice." The investigation also unearths information that hits Lewis close to home.
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In "Inspector Lewis: Allegory of Love," Lewis and Hathaway investigate the slaying of a Czech barmaid that seems to replicate a murder in a book, but the author (Tom Mison) claims ignorance of the crime. The sleuthing is aided by two clues found at the murder scene: a blood-stained note and a broken antique mirror. Alice Wishart: Cara Horgan.
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In "Inspector Lewis: The Great and the Good," the investigation of an assault on a teenage girl leads to a suspect who seemingly has a solid alibi. courtesy of three elite members of the Oxford community. Oswald Cooper: Jason Watkins. Jessamine Matthews: Emily Bruni.
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In "Inspector Lewis: Life Born of Fire," the detective inspector investigates a possible serial killer who may be targeting members of a religious group called the Garden that claims to offer guidance to lost souls. His digging unearths the group's questionable purpose, a suspect and a connection to none other than Hathaway. Rev. King: Ian McNeice. Will McEwan: Phillip Battley. Henry McEwan: Matthew Marsh.
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"Inspector Lewis: Music to Die For" finds Lewis and Hathaway investigating the death of an Oxford don, which leads them to an illegal, no-rules boxing ring. The case unearths old ties to the former East Germany's secret police and a link to Lewis' mentor, Insp. Morse. Jack Roth: Bradley James. Sarah Kriel: Joanna Christie. Ann Kriel: Rachel Blake.
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In "Inspector Lewis: And the Moonbeams Kiss the Sea," the investigation into two murders and stolen rare books leads Lewis and Hathaway to a treatment center for gambling addicts and two artists. Sandra Walters: Haydn Gwynne. Jeffreys: Ian Burfield. Jane Evans: Jeany Spark.
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"Miss Marple: Why Didn't They Ask Evans?" finds Marple teaming with a young adventurer (Sean Biggerstaff) and a socialite (Georgia Moffett) to unravel the meaning of a dying man's last words. Sylvia Savage: Samantha Bond.
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Joan Collins guest stars in "Miss Marple: They Do It With Mirrors," in which Marple investigates a murder that occurs during the rehearsal of an amateur show. Carrie Louise Serrocold: Penelope Wilton. Lewis Serrocold: Brian Cox.
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In "Miss Marple: Murder Is Easy," a fellow train passenger (Sylvia Syms) confides in Marple that several recent deaths in her village were, in her opinion, murders. Marple decides to take up the case after the woman dies in what appears to be a tragic accident. Luke Fitzwilliam: Benedict Cumberbatch. Jessie Humbleby: Jemma Redgrave. George Rogers: Steven Hartley.
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In "Miss Marple: A Pocket Full of Rye," Julia McKenzie assumes the role of Agatha Christie's spinster sleuth, who investigates murders that seem to mimic the nursey rhyme "Sing a Song of Sixpence"---of a businessman, his wife and their maid. Lance: Rupert Graves. Elaine: Hattie Morahan. Percival: Ben Miles.
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In "Poirot: Mrs. McGinty's Dead," at the request of the investigating officer, the Belgian sleuth looks into the small-town case of a lodger (Joe Absolom) convicted of murdering his landlady and discovers it's not as open-and-shut as it seemed. Along the way, Poirot runs into famed crime novelist (Zoë Wanamaker). Mrs. Rendell: Amanda Root. Maude: Sarah Smart.
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"Poirot: Cat Among the Pigeons" finds the Belgian sleuth Hercule Poirot assisting in a case with international overtones: the murders of teachers at a girls' school harboring a Middle Eastern princess (Amara Karan) from anti-monarch revolutionaries. Miss Bulstrode: Harriet Walter. Insp. Kelsey: Anton Lesser.
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The suspenseful "Wallander: One Step Behind" finds a sleep-deprived Wallander's eyes widened when the investigation into the Midsummer Eve's disappearance-murder of three young people is followed by the slaying of a colleague. Linda: Jeany Spark. Lillmor Norman: Samantha Best.
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The labyrinth "Wallander: Firewall" finds the Swedish police detective (Kenneth Branagh) investigating the murder of a cabbie by two teens and the death of a computer-systems analyst. At the same time, his daughter sets him up on an Internet dating site that matches the cop with a divorced woman (Orla Brady) who encourages him to open up about his life and work.
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The gritty and engrossing "Wallander: Sidetracked" stars Kenneth Branagh as Swedish crime author Henning Mankell's scruffy police detective Kurt Wallander, who investigates a 15-year-old girl's self-immolation and several ax murders targeting members of Sweden's high society, all while trying to find time for his aging father (David Warner). Linda Wallander: Jeany Spark. Anne-Britt Hoglund: Sarah Smart. Nyberg: Richard McCabe.
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Charles Dickens' "The Old Curiosity Shop," about an orphan girl (Sophie Vavasseur) whose kind grandfather (Derek Jacobi), owner of a knickknack shop, is in debt to the unsavory loan shark-solicitor Quilp (Toby Jones) due to a gambling habit. Samson Brass: Adam Godley. Dick Swiveller: Geoff Breton. Mrs. Jarley: Zoe Wanamaker.
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The conclusion of Charles Dickens' "Little Dorrit" finds a confused Mr. Dorrit believing he's still in the Marshalsea while attending a fancy masked ball. Amy moves to England, where she moves in with Fanny and Sparkler and bumps into Arthur, whose fortune is threatened when Merdle's investment scheme collapses.
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Part 4 of 5 of "Little Dorrit" finds Arthur in search of the wretched Rigaud, whom Arthur's mother is suspected of murdering. At the same time, along with Mr. Dorrit and many others, he invests in Merdle's bank.
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Part 3 of 5 of "Little Dorrit." The lives of the Dorrit clan, especially William's, are dramatically changed by information uncovered by Pancks (Eddie Marsan). Meanwhile, the awful Rigaud (Andy Serkis) begins an extortion scheme against Mrs. Clennam.
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Part 2 of 5 of "Little Dorrit" finds Amy receiving a marriage proposal from John Chivery (Russell Tovey), the son of the head jailer; Arthur competing for the affections of Pet Meagles (Georgia King); and Fanny leading on playboy Edmund Sparkler (Sebastian Armesto).
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This well-acted, five-part adaptation of Charles Dickens' "Little Dorrit" opens in 1820s England with young Amy Dorrit (Claire Foy), whose father has been in a debtors' prison for 25 years, accepting a seamstress job with stern shut-in Mrs. Clennam (Judy Parfitt). The kind act, meanwhile, arouses the suspicion of the woman's son Arthur (Matthew Macfadyen), who's just returned from two decades abroad. William Dorrit: Tom Courtenay. Jeremiah Flintwitch: Alun Armstrong.
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"Oliver Twist" concludes with Oliver (William Miller) cared for by Nancy (Sophie Okenedo) after he's shot during a botched burglary and unaware that his existence has sparked a fight between some who wish to save him and others who want him dead. Fagin: Timothy Spall. Sikes: Tom Hardy. Artful Dodger: Adam Arnold.
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Part 1 of a two-part adaptation of Charles Dickens' "Oliver Twist" finds orphaned Oliver (William Miller) banished from a workhouse after asking for more food. He heads to London, where he falls in with a band of boy-thieves led by the colorful Fagin (Timothy Spall). Artful Dodger: Adam Arnold. Bill Sikes: Tom Hardy. Nancy: Sophie Okonedo.
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The conclusion of "Wuthering Heights" finds Heathcliff (Tom Hardy), after a long absence, returning as a rich man to his boyhood home. Still pained by his love for Cathy (Charlotte Riley), he seeks revenge on those he believes wronged him. Linton: Tom Payne. Catherine: Rebecca Night. Hareton: Andrew Hawley.
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Part 1 of 2. An adaptation of Emily Bronte's classic "Wuthering Heights" opens with Heathcliff (Tom Hardy), a gypsy adopted by the Earnshaw family, falling in love with his open-hearted stepsister Cathy (Charlotte Riley) while growing up even though he has a rival (Andrew Lincoln) for her affection. His relationship with stepbrother Hindley (Burn Gorman), meanwhile, is anything but pleasant, as the boy views him as a rival. Isabella: Rosalind Halstead.
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The conclusion of "Tess of the D'Urbervilles" finds Tess (Gemma Arterton) telling Angel (Eddie Redmayne) about Alec (Hans Matheson) on their wedding night, which doesn't sit well with Angel. Later, while Angel attempts to start a new life in Brazil, she works on a farm and fends off advances from Alec, who has taken a renewed interest in her after a chance meeting.
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Part 1 of 2. The "Masterpiece Classic" season premiere features an adaptation of Thomas Hardy's classic "Tess of the D'Urbervilles," about a young woman (Gemma Arterton) who learns that, though her family is poor, she's descended from aristocrats. She takes a position with a family who purchased her ancestral name, D'Urbervilles, and she is preyed upon by Alec (Hans Matheson), the libertine son, from whom she flees. Ian Puleston-Davies: John Durbeyfield. Anna Massey: Mrs. D'Urberville.
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A profile of longtime "Masterpiece Theatre" host Alistair Cooke (1908-2004) that's told in his own voice and that features 8mm home movies he began filming in 1933. Included: his relationships with Charlie Chaplin and Paulette Goddard; interviews with family and friends, including "Masterpiece" executive producer Rebecca Eaton.
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Filth
Season 38, Episode 31
The satirical "Filth" features a tremendous performance by Julie Walters as Mary Whitehouse, a real-life school teacher who founded a TV-watchdog group in 1960s Britain in an effort to stop the BBC from broadcasting what she saw as immoral programs. The BBC's modern-minded director-general, Sir Hugh Greene (Hugh Bonneville), will hear none of her complaints, however, and he winds up in Mrs. Whitehouse's crosshairs. Ernest: Alun Armstrong. Lord Charlie Hill: Ron Cook.
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The provocative and powerful "God on Trial" finds a group of Jews at Auschwitz convening a rabbinical court to put the Lord on trial for breaking his covenant with them while waiting for the Nazis to come and take some of them to the gas chambers. Baumgarten: Stellan Skarsgard. Mordechai: Rupert Graves. Schmidt: Stephen Dillane. Kuhn: Jack Shepherd.
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In the conclusion of "The Last Enemy," Stephen is sent to collect blood samples from the dying refugees to show that the vaccine was indeed contaminated, and seeks to expose what happened before the evidence vanishes.
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Part 4 of 5 of "The Last Enemy" finds Stephen and Yasim searching for the truth about a hepatitis B vaccine that may have been contaminated; and Stephen thrust into homelessness when his identity is wiped out.
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Part 3 of 5 of "The Last Enemy" finds Stephen and Yasim joining with rogue agent David Russell in order to unravel the bioweapons conspiracy and its possible link to TIA.
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Part 2 of 5 of "The Last Enemy." Stephen tries to discover what killed the woman he found in his apartment; Yasim believes that Michael may have learned something he shouldn't prior to his death.
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Part 1 of the five-part "Last Enemy," a fast-paced thriller about a mathematician (Benedict Cumberbatch) who's swept up in intrigue when, after years abroad, he returns to England for the funeral of his brother, a doctor killed in Afghanistan. Things turn odd when he arrives at his brother's flat to discover a seriously ill woman being tended to by his brother's wife (Anamaria Marinca), a Bosnian doctor; and odder yet the next day, when he's recruited to work with TIA (Total Information Agency).
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"The Shadow in the North" finds feisty Victorian sleuth Sally Lockhart (Billie Piper) discovering a common thread in a series of seemingly disparate events, including an investment gone wrong, a conjurer targeted by thugs and a clairvoyant's vision of a murder. Frederick Garland: JJ Feild. Nicholas Bedwell: David Harewood. Nellie Budd: Dona Croll.
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"The Inspector Lynley Mysteries: Know Thine Enemy" finds Lynley and Havers on the case of a possible serial killer after a suburban London schoolgirl turns up dead and another goes missing. Tania Thompson: Honeysuckle Weeks. Guy Thompson: James D'Arcy.
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"The Inspector Lynley Mysteries: Limbo" finds Lynley, six months after the death of his wife, drawn into the 15-year-old mystery of his godson's abduction. The case takes him to Rome, where a tragedy occurs---and he's arrested for murder. Vivienne Oborne: Samantha Bond. Sam Oborne: Nicholas Farrell. DS Michelle Tate: Geraldine Somerville.
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"Foyle's War: All Clear" finds DCS Foyle, in the final days of the war, serving on a committee created to keep a lid on the victory celebrations following the Germans' defeat. The murder of a fellow committee member, however, soon occupies his time; and leads him into waters that the Allies would prefer he not explore. Maj. John Kiefer: Jay Benedict. Andrew Foyle: Julien Ovenden. Dr. Henry Ziegler: John Ramm. Martin Longmate: Mark Bazeley.
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In "Foyle's War: Broken Souls," the detective chief superintendent investigates the murder of an unpopular doctor at a psychiatric clinic for war veterans and the slaying of an escaped German POW. Sam, meanwhile, searches for a missing telegram-delivery boy. Dr. Josef Novak: Nicholas Woodeson. Iain Campbell: Duncan Bell. Tommy Crooks: Danny Worters. Fred Dawson: Joseph Mawle.
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In "Foyle's War: Plan of Attack," former DCS Foyle (Michael Kitchen) is in the midst of writing his memoirs when he's called out of retirement to investigate an airman's apparent suicide. DCS Meredith: Nicholas Day. Joyce Meredith: Elizabeth McKechnie. Father Martin Keppler: Martin Sinclair. Jane Hudson: Fiona Glascott. Adam Everitt: Vince Leigh.
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In "Inspector Lewis: Expiation," Lewis probes the apparent suicide of an Oxford housewife (Emma Croft). Hugh Mallory: James Wilby. David Hayward: Vincent Regan. Louise Hayward: Lucy Robinson.
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"Inspector Lewis: Old School Ties" finds Lewis and Hathaway investigating the murder of an Oxford student whose body was discovered in her hotel room. Prof. Weller: Don Gallagher. Chloe: Sarah Quintrell. Paul: Alex McSweeney.
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"Inspector Lewis: Whom the Gods Would Destroy" finds the former Insp. Morse sidekick (Kevin Whately) and DS Hathaway (Laurence Fox) investigating the death of a middle-aged Oxford graduate, whose body was discovered on his houseboat. Anne Sadikov: Anna Madeley. Prof. Gold: Anna Massey. Chief Superintendent Innocent: Rebecca Front.
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Cranford
Season 38, Episode 15
In the conclusion of "Cranford," Dr. Harrison (Simon Woods) is disgraced when it's discovered he's engaged to three women; Mr. Carter'is shocked by Lady Ludlow (Francesca Annis), who mortgaged her estate; and Matty (Judi Dench) is in financial peril after the bank collapses. Mr. Carter: Philip Glenister. Deborah: Eileen Atkins.
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Cranford
Season 38, Episode 14
Part 2 of 3 of "Cranford" finds a vagrant (Dean Lennox Kelly) blamed for a crime wave that includes a missing leg of mutton and a mugging. Also, Matty (Judi Dench) reunites with her long-ago suitor, Mr. Holbrook (Michael Gambon). Deborah: Eileen Atkins.
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Cranford
Season 38, Episode 13
A three-part adaptation of Elizabeth Gaskell's "Cranford," about life in an 1840s Cheshire village. Judi Dench and Eileen Atkins star as sisters Matty and Deborah Jenkyns who, in the opener, welcome an old friend (Lisa Dillon) to live with them. Also, the town's new doctor (Simon Woods) introduces new medical procedures and causes hearts to swoon; and a railroad headed Cranford's way causes some concern. Lady Ludlow: Francesca Annis.
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David Haig wrote and stars in "My Boy Jack," a sobering, well-acted story of Rudyard Kipling (Haig) and his son (Daniel Radcliffe), whose efforts to join the British military prior to WWI are rejected (because of myopia) until his father intervenes. Sent to France, Jack takes part in "the greatest battle in the history of the world." Days later, a telegram arrives informing his family that he's missing, prompting his parents to seek the answer to his fate. Carrie Kipling: Kim Cattrall.
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E.M. Forster's "A Room With a View" stars Elaine Cassidy as Lucy, who's intrigued by working-class George (Timothy Spall) after he and his father (Rafe Spall) exchange rooms with her and chaperone Charlotte (Sophie Thompson) while vacationing in Italy. However, Charlotte whisks her away before anything too improper can happen. In England, Lucy becomes engaged to snobbish Cecil (Laurence Fox), but the match may be short-lived, after George and his dad move nearby.
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In the conclusion of "Sense and Sensibility," Elinor's dismayed to learn that Edward is secretly engaged to another woman, and Marianne is shocked that Willoughby isn't happy to see her after she, Elinor and Mrs. Jennings travel to London. Later, Elinor learns disturbing news about Willoughby; Col. Brandon rescues Marianne during a rainstorm; and Edward visits Barton Cottage to see Elinor. Elinor: Hattie Morahan. Marianne: Charity Wakefield. Edward: Dan Stevens. Willoughby: Dominic Cooper.
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Part 1 of 2. A sumptuous adaptation of Jane Austen's "Sense and Sensibility," about sisters Elinor and Marianne (Hattie Morahan, Charity Wakefield) in the late 18th century. Their lives are upended following their father's death when, at the behest of his wife, Fanny (Claire Skinner), half-brother John (Mark Gatiss)---who inherited their father's riches---backtracks on his vow to care for them and their mother (Janet McTeer). Edward Ferrars: Dan Stevens. Col. Brandon: David Morrissey.
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Passages from Jane Austen's letters and books spice "Miss Austen Regrets," which dramatizes the final years of her too-short life (1775-1817). Olivia Williams is perfect as free-spirited "spinster" Jane, who comes to terms with the lost loves of her past while advising a niece (Imogen Poots) about potential suitors; and, by chance, discovers a possible match for herself with a young doctor (Jack Huston).The outstanding supporting cast also includes Greta Scacchi as Jane's older sister Cassandra.
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Billie Piper ("Doctor Who") stars in this adaptation of Jane Austen's "Mansfield Park" as Fanny Price, a young woman from a poor background who has been raised by her wealthy uncle and aunt. While growing up amidst her new family, she forms a tight bond with the second son, Edmund (Blake Ritson); is severely chastised by her uncle (Douglas Hodge) for turning down a marriage proposal; and finds true love. Henry Crawford: Joseph Beattie. Mary Crawford: Hayley Atwell.
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This adaptation of Jane Austen's "Northanger Abbey" features Felicity Jones as Catherine Morland, a gothic-novel afficiando whose vivid imagination leads her into trouble during a stay with the wealthy Tilney family at their medieval country house. At the same time, Catherine's budding romance with the younger son, Henry Tilney (J.J. Feild), is threatened. Isabella Thorpe: Carey Mulligan. John Thorpe: William Beck. Eleanor Tilney: Catherine Walker.
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Persuasion
Season 38, Episode 1
The venerable series "Masterpiece Theatre" changes its name but not its quality, delivering a solid adaptation of Jane Austen's "Persuasion," about 27-year-old Anne Elliot (Sally Hawkins), who's facing spinsterhood when a past love, the handsome Capt. Wentworth (Rupert Penry-Jones), reenters her life. The strong supporting cast includes Anthony Head ("Buffy the Vampire Slayer") as Anne's father, the crotchety Sir Walter Elliot. Gillian Anderson ("The X-Files") joins the franchise as a host.
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In the conclusion of “The Amazing Mrs. Pritchard,” Ros is tempted to keep Ian's criminal past from the public; and is the subject of an attempted blackmail. Meanwhile, Catherine's affair with a younger man is falling apart.
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Part 4 of 5 of “The Amazing Mrs. Pritchard” finds Ros implementing a new policy to combat global warming: banning unessential car traffic for one day a week. Elsewhere, Ros' chancellor, Catherine, learns that she's pregnant; and Ros discovers Ian's less-than-savory past.
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Part 3 of 5 of “The Amazing Mrs. Pritchard” finds Ros, a year into her run as prime minister, tested when a Lithuanian plane crashes over London and one of her ministers is caught on camera in a drunken state. Also: A brewing scandal may bring down her government.
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Part 2 of 5 of “The Amazing Mrs. Pritchard” finds the political honeymoon turning sour for Ros when her proposal to move the government seat stalls; a visiting dignitary is slain; and an impolitic photo of daughter Emily (Carey Mulligan) surfaces in Parliament. Also: Ian (Steven Mackintosh) reveals a secret to Emily.
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Part 1 of the five-part "Amazing Mrs. Pritchard," about a British supermarket manager (Jane Horrocks) who, fed up with politicians, decides to run for parliament---and winds up prime minister. Ian: Steven Mackintosh. Miranda Lennox: Jodhi May. Catherine Walker: Janet McTeer.
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"The Inspector Lynley Mysteries: In the Blink of an Eye" finds Lynley and Havers linking the murder of a paparazzo in London's Soho district to a 1995 Bosnian massacre. To help with the psychological aspects of the case, Lynley turns to his ex-wife, Helen (Catherine Russell), for help.
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"The Inspector Lynley Mysteries: Chinese Walls" finds Lynley and Havers investigating the seedy side of the Internet after a young barrister (Isabella Calthorpe), who was moonlighting on her sister's porn site, is murdered. Also: Lynley and his estranged wife (Catherine Russell) rekindle their relationship. Tony Wainwright: Samuel West. Deborah Proctor: Diana Hardcastle. Hester Reed: Lindsey Coulson.
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"The Inspector Lynley Mysteries: One Guilty Deed" finds the reinstated Lynley joining Havers and DC Nkata as they close in on an organized-crime boss (Tom Georgeson) when their informant (David Hepple) is found murdered on the south coast. Although the slaying appears to be a contract killing, Havers has her doubts when she learns of a 20-year-old unsolved murder that occurred in the area. Carly Baker: Esther Hall.
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“The Inspector Lynley Mysteries: Natural Causes” finds Lynley---who's on suspension---helping Havers and Det. Insp. Fiona Knight (Liza Tarbuck) with a drowning case. Havers: Sharon Small.
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“The Secret Life of Mrs. Beeton” relates the story of the Victorian Age's Martha Stewart, Isabella Beeton (Anna Madeley), the author of the popular 1861 tome “Mrs. Beeton's Book of Household Management” who died at the age of 28. Sam Beeton: JJ Feild. Anna Chancellor: Elizabeth Dorling. Jim Carter: Henry Dorling. Fred: Joseph Mawle.
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A live-action adaptation of Kenneth Grahame's classic children's yarn “The Wind in the Willows,” which follows the adventures of Mr. Toad (Matt Lucas), who yearns to drive; and his pals Badger (Bob Hoskins), Ratty (Mark Gattis) and Mole (Lee Ingleby), who believe things would be better if he didn't. Jailor's Daughter: Anna Maxwell Martin. Barge Lady: Imelda Staunton.
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Dracula
Season 37, Episode 5
This adaptation of Bram Stoker's “Dracula” finds the Transylvanian vampire (Marc Warren) called to England by a lord (Dan Stevens), who thinks Dracula can cure syphilis. The lord has the disease but doesn't want to pass it to his fiancée, Lucy (Sophia Myles). Dr. Abraham Van Helsing: David Suchet. Mina Murray: Stephanie Leonidas. Jonathan Harker: Rafe Spall. .
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Adapted from Philip Pullman's first novel about Sally Lockhart, a feisty, orphaned Victorian teen (Billie Piper), “The Ruby in the Smoke” finds her ferreting out information about her father's death; discovering cursed jewels; and facing off with a deadly villain. Along the way, she's helped by street-smart pal Jim (Matt Smith) and photographer Frederick (J.J. Field), who's besotted with her. Mrs. Holland: Julie Walters. Rosa Garland: Hayley Atwell. Adelaide: Chloe Walker.
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Jane Eyre
Season 37, Episode 2
The handsome, well-acted adaptation of Charlotte Bronte's “Jane Eyre” concludes. Jane (Ruth Wilson) accepts the marriage proposal of Rochester (Toby Stephens), but their wedding plans are upended when Rochester's secrets are revealed. After fleeing from Thornfield, Jane is taken in by a clergyman and his two sisters, and decides to become a parish teacher. Letting go of her past, however, proves difficult, and she finds herself drawn back to Thornfield.
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Derek Jacobi (“I, Claudius”) hosts this countdown of the series' Top 12 shows, as voted by viewers. Included: interviews with many of the program's stars, including Gillian Anderson; Anthony Andrews; Charles Dance; Robin Ellis; Robson Green; Geraldine James; Gemma Jones; Hugh Laurie; Damian Lewis; Jean Marsh; Gina McKee; Helen Mirren; Ian Richardson; Diana Rigg; Justine Waddell; Simon William; screenwriter Andrew Davies; and executive producer Rebecca Eaton.
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Jane Eyre
Season 37, Episode 1
Featured: "Jane Eyre" (Part 1 of 2). This superb adaptation of Charlotte Bronte's 1847 classic follows Jane (Ruth Wilson) as she endures a bleak childhood and is engaged by the brooding Edward Rochester (Toby Stephens) as a governess for his ward (Cosima Littlewood). Lady Ingram: Francesca Annis. Mrs. Fairfax: Lorraine Ashbourne. Blanche: Christina Cole. Grace Poole: Pam Ferris. Young Jane: Georgie Henley. John Eshton: Aidan McArdle. Directed by Susanna White.
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The gripping conclusion of “Prime Suspect: The Final Act” begins with the police hunting Curtis (Heshima Thompson) and Tennison (Helen Mirren) dealing with two deaths during her last days on the force. Penny: Laura Greenwood. Philips: Stephen Tompkinson. Sturdy: Gary Lewis. Ruth Sturdy: Katy Murphy. Linda Philips: Eve Best.
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Part 1 of 2. A superb “Prime Suspect: The Final Act” finds Jane Tennison (Helen Mirren) investigating a girl's disappearance (her last case prior to retirement), while battling the bottle and dealing with her ill father. Penny: Laura Greenwood. Philips: Stephen Tompkinson. Sturdy: Gary Lewis. Ruth Sturdy: Katy Murphy. Linda Philips: Eve Best. Arnold Tennison: Frank Finlay.
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The exciting conclusion of “To the Ends of the Earth” involves incidents with ice and fire, a marriage aboard ship and Talbot (Benedict Cumberbatch) reaching journey's end. In the interim, a committee asks Talbot to persuade the captain to change course and Lt. Benét (Niall Macgregor) devises a plan to keep the ship afloat. Prettiman: Sam Neill. Capt. Anderson: Jared Harris. Miss Granham: Victoria Hamilton. 1st Lt. Summers: Jamie Sives. Brocklebank: Richard McCabe. Pike: Jonathan Slinger.
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Part 2. “To the Ends of the Earth” continues with the impressive “Close Quarters,” as Edmund Talbot (Benedict Cumberbatch) falls in love at first sight with Marion Chumley (Joanna Page), who's aboard the Alcyone, a British ship that anchors alongside Talbot's vessel; Deverel (JJ Field) resigns his commission and calls Capt. Anderson (Jared Harris) a coward. Sir Henry Somerset: Charles Dance. Lady Somerset: Cheryl Campbell. Mr. Prettiman: Sam Neill. Adapted from William Golding's trilogy.
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Part 1 of 3. “To the Ends of the Earth,” a vivid adaptation of William Golding's trilogy, begins in 1814 England as young aristocrat Edmund Talbot (Benedict Cumberbatch) boards a ship for a six-month voyage to Australia. Among those he encounters: wealthy Mr. Prettiman (Sam Neill); pious Parson Colley (Daniel Evans); tyrannical captain Anderson (Jared Harris); and servant Wheeler (Brian Pettifer), who tells Talbot that the shaky vessel will “float till she sinks.”
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Casanova
Season 36, Episode 11
The conclusion of “Casanova” starts with the Lothario (David Tennant) escaping from a boudoir balcony, as recalled by his older self (Peter O'Toole), and calling out to the wronged husband, “You love your wife. I love your wife. Aren't we both on the same side?” Henriette: Laura Fraser. Grimani: Rupert Penry-Jones. Bellino: Nina Sosanya. Written by Russell T. Davies. Directed by Sheree Folkson.
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Casanova
Season 36, Episode 10
Part 1 of two. “Casanova,” the famous 18th-century Lothario, is portrayed in later life (by Peter O'Toole) and as a young man (David Tennant). Henriette: Laura Fraser. Grimani: Rupert Penry-Jones. Bellino: Nina Sosanya. Written by Russell T. Davies. Directed by Sheree Folkson.
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Three men vie for the affections of schoolteacher Fancy Day (Keeley Hawes) in a 19th-century English village in “Under the Greenwood Tree,” an adaptation of the Thomas Hardy novel. Dick Dewy: James Murray. Parson Maybold: Ben Miles. Mr. Shiner: Steve Pemberton. Reuben Dewy: Tony Haygarth. Geoffrey Day: Tom Georgeson.
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“Carrie's War,” an entrancing tale of a 14-year- old (Keeley Fawcett) and her younger brother (Jack Stanley), evacuated during World War II from England to Wales, where they encounter the dour Mr. Evans (Alun Armstrong), his widowed sister, Mrs. Gotobed (Geraldine McEwan), and her housekeeper, Hepzibah (Pauline Quirke), who's rumored to be a witch. Lou Evans: Lesley Sharp. Albert Sandwich: Eddie Cooper. Mister Johnny: Jamie Bernard. Based on Nina Bawden's novel.
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“My Family and Other Animals” is a charming adaptation of British zoologist Gerald Durrell's recollections of his years as a teen (played by Eugene Simon), spent with his offbeat mother (Imelda Staunton) and siblings on the Greek island of Corfu before World War II, amid odd creatures: crawling, flying and human. Larry: Matthew Goode. Leslie: Russell Tovey. Margo: Tamzin Merchant. Spiro: Omid Djalili.
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Conclusion. The first-rate, often touching “Bleak House” ends with a settlement of the Jarndyce vs. Jarndyce case, the deaths of two major characters and a wedding. Included: Bucket (Alun Armstrong) conducts a murder investigation; Smallweed regains Lady Dedlock's letters; Esther receives two marriage proposals. Lady Dedlock: Gillian Anderson. Esther: Anna Maxwell Martin. Jarndyce: Denis Lawson. Sir Leicester: Timothy West.
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Part 5. In the penultimate episode of “Bleak House,” Sir Leicester invites Esther (Anna Maxwell Martin), Ada and Jarndyce to visit; Jarndyce tells Esther his hopes for the future; Carstone ends his military career; Esther is reunited with Allan Woodcourt; and Tulkinghorn is surprised by a visitor. Lady Dedlock: Gillian Anderson. Tulkinghorn: Charles Dance. Ada: Carey Mulligan. Carstone: Patrick Kennedy. Woodcourt: Richard Harrington.
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“Bleak House,” Part 4. Esther's past is revealed during a talk with Lady Dedlock; Richard visits Ada Clare and Esther; a stack of letters is sought by Tulkinghorn and Guppy; Tulkinghorn confronts Lady Dedlock. Lady Dedlock: Gillian Anderson. Esther: Anna Maxwell Martin.Tulkinghorn: Charles Dance. Richard: Patrick Kennedy. John Jarndyce: Denis Lawson. Ada Clare: Carey Mulligan. Smallweed: Phil Davis. Miss Flite: Pauline Collins.
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“Bleak House,” Part 3. Carstone (Patrick Kennedy) studies the numerous Jarndyce vs. Jarndyce files; Esther (Anna Maxwell Martin) meets Lady Dedlock (Gillian Anderson) at a country estate, to which Esther had accompanied Ada and John Jarndyce (Denis Lawson). Ada: Carey Mulligan. Tulkinghorn: Charles Dance. Guppy: Burn Gorman.
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“Bleak House,” Part 2. Tulkinghorn (Charles Dance) checks into Nemo's past; Esther (Anna Maxwell Martin) is attracted to Allan Woodcourt (Richard Harrington); Jarndyce (Denis Lawson) asks Richard and Ada Clare to postpone any marriage plans. Lady Dedlock: Gillian Anderson. Jo: Harry Eden. Krook: Johnny Vegas. Sir Leicester: Timothy West. Richard: Patrick Kennedy. Ada Clare: Carey Mulligan. Adapted by Andrew Davies from the Dickens novel. A BBC production.
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“Bleak House” opens the series' 36th season. The sterling six-part BBC adaptation of the Dickens novel stars Gillian Anderson as Lady Dedlock and Charles Dance as Mr. Tulkinghorn, a solicitor. In Part 1, Esther Summerson (Anna Maxwell Martin) becomes a companion to Ada Clare (Carey Mulligan). John Jarndyce: Denis Lawson. Richard Carstone: Patrick Kennedy. Nemo: John Lynch. Guppy: Burn Gorman. Adapted by Andrew Davies.
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“The Virgin Queen” concludes with Elizabeth I (Anne-Marie Duff) surviving the threat of her cousin Mary, Queen of Scots, and four decades of palace intrigue. But her “finest hour,” the defeat of the Spanish Armada in 1588, is marred by the death of “Robbie” Dudley (Tom Hardy), her “most faithful, most obedient servant.” His replacement: another dashing young “Robbie” (Hans Matheson), the Earl of Essex and Dudley's stepson. William Cecil: Ian Hart. Lattice Knowles: Sienna Guillory.
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“The Virgin Queen,” a two-part dramatization of the life of Elizabeth I (Anne-Marie Duff), opens with her unpopular sister, “Bloody Mary,” on the throne and “Bess” in the tower of London. But not for long. Mary dies in 1558 and Bess becomes queen. Her constantly scheming courtiers' top priority: get her married to a suitable crowned head, but she demurs. “I married England, my lords,” she proclaims. Dudley: Tom Hardy. Norfolk: Kevin McKidd. Kat: Tara Fitzgerald. Cecil: Ian Hart.
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Kidnapped
Season 35, Episode 10
Robert Louis Stevenson's “Kidnapped” concludes with Davie (James Anthony Pearson) and rebel Alan Breck (Iain Glen) on the run in Scotland from both the British and bounty hunters. Breck is wanted for killing a tax collector, and the British will hang an innocent man (Gregor Fisher) unless he surrenders. Col. MacNab: Paul McGann. Catriona: Kirstin Coulter Smith. Ebenezer: Adrian Dunbar. Cluny: John Bach.
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Kidnapped
Season 35, Episode 9
A two-part adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson's “Kidnapped” begins as young Scotsman Davie Balfour (James Anthony Pearson) is sold into slavery by his uncle to a ship captain bound for the Indies. Sweeping in to save him: swashbuckling Alan Breck (Iain Glen), and their adventures in service to the Jacobite “new revolution” begin with the two on the run from the British in the Scottish highlands. Filmed in New Zealand. Ebenezer: Adrian Dunbar. Capt. Hoseason: Gavin Richards.
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“Sherlock Holmes: The Case of the Silk Stocking.” The cerebral sleuth (Rupert Everett) stalks an eerily foggy Edwardian London on the trail of a killer targeting aristocratic young women. The fiend's calling card: he dresses his victims in his previous victim's clothes after strangling them and stuffing silk stockings into their throats. He also admires their feet. Watson: Ian Hart. Pentney: Jonathan Hyde. Mary Pentney: Eleanor David. Lestrade: Neil Dudgeon. Mrs. Vandeleur: Helen McCrory.
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Love and decency complicate the conclusion of “Island at War.” Exhibit A: Angelique and Timmermann (Joanne Forggart, Laurence Fox). And her sister Joan's “fraternization” with the Germans isn't what it seems. Meanwhile, Zelda and Philip (Louisa Clein, Sam Heughan) make a break from the island by boat; and the baron (Philip Glenister) hears the worst thing a parent can hear. Dorr: James Wilby. Felicity: Clare Holman. June: Samantha Robinson.
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Residents of St. Gregory react to LaSalle's execution with defiance and resolve in Part 4 of “Island at War.” James Dorr (James Wilby) displays his in a manner his wife (Clare Holman) terms “barbaric”---but “impressively so.” However, all three Mahy women associate willingly with Germans. June and Angelique's friend Zelda (Louisa Clein) sees a German, too, but she isn't as willing. Then a crackdown on Jews begins. Rheingarten: Philip Glenister.
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In Part 3 of “Island at War,” one of the two British commandos, LaSalle (Richard Dempsey), gives himself up as the Nazis tighten the screws on the islanders. The dead German's body still hasn't been found, but the baron (Philip Glenister) is certain he was shot by the commandos and vows retaliation. Meanwhile, the Nazis are having a tough time wooing local women, but a boatload of “ladies of the night” arrives from France to ease the pressure---on the soldiers if not the townswomen.
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In Part 2 of “Island at War,” Commandant Rheingarten (Philip Glenister) occupies an unoccupied wing of the Dorr house, and the Dorrs' son Philip returns---surreptitiously (he's a commando). Meanwhile, a sensitive young German airman (Laurence Fox) has his eye on Angelique Mahy (Joanne Froggatt). And Rheingarten has his eye on Felicity Dorr (Clare Holman). “We are an invading army, ravenous wolves, and we are men without women,” he tells her. “Sooner or later the invader in us will come out.”
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“Island at War,” a five-part series that takes events that actually happened in Britain's Channel Islands during World War II and weaves them into a tapestry of resistance. Part 1 begins in 1940. The Nazis occupy France. Eight miles offshore, tensions mount on undefended St. Gregory's Island. Then the Luftwaffe strafes the harbor, killing 12 civilians. Occupying troops soon follow. Their commandant (Philip Glenister) doesn't seem to be a brute, but he hasn't been crossed yet.
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As Anthony Trollope's “He Knew He Was Right” concludes, the insaneTrevelyan (Oliver Dimsdale) has his son kidnapped from his wife, Emily (Laura Fraser). And Trevelyan isn't the only lover to go mad, as Vicar Gibson (David Tennant) discovers after he chooses between Camilla and Arabella French (Claudie Blakley, Fenella Woolgar). Meanwhile, both Hugh and Dorothy Stanbury (Stephen Campbell Moore, Caroline Martin) face formidable obstacles in their romances. Bozzle: Ron Cook. Aunt: Anna Massey.
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Jealousy consumes a Victorian husband in the two-part “He Knew He Was Right,” Anthony Trollope's 1869 take on “Othello.” The tragic lovers: feisty Emily Rowley (Laura Fraser) and her insecure husband, Louis Trevelyan (Oliver Dimsdale). The third party: a flirtatious, if not adulterous, friend (Bill Nighy) of Emily's father. In contrast, romances involving other characters play out with far less intensity. Screenwriter Andrew Davies updated “Othello” in 2002 for “Masterpiece Theatre.”
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Pollyanna
Season 34, Episode 6
“Pollyanna,” Eleanor H. Porter's timeless tale of a sunny young girl (Georgina Terry) who goes to live with her sourpuss Aunt Polly (Amanda Burton) when her father dies. “There's always something to be glad about” is the 11-year-old Pollyanna's motto, and whether it's matching Aunt Polly's maid (Kate Ashfield) and shy handyman (Tom Ellis), or trying to find a home for another orphan (Ben Thornton), she's always trying to spread joy. But Aunt Polly won't play her “glad game,” and Pollyanna can't figure out why not. Screenwriter Simon Nye (“The Railway Children”) changed the setting of Porter's 1913 novel from New England to Britain. Pendleton: Kenneth Cranham. Dr. Chiltern: Aden Gillett.
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Henry VIII
Season 34, Episode 5
“Henry VIII” (Ray Winstone) works his way through his final four wives in the conclusion of this two-part biography of the mercurial 16th-century tyrant who broke with Rome over his marital woes. That break is still fresh as Part 2 opens with the charismatic Catholic officer Robert Aske (Sean Bean) leading 50,000 troops on a “Pilgrimage of Grace” to London. Henry won't be indulgent with him, but will be indulgent to wife No. 3, Jane Seymour (Emilia Fox), who also crosses him. But then, she supplies him with a son. She also dies of an infection before she can cross him again. Cromwell: Danny Webb. Norfolk: Mark Strong.
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Henry VIII
Season 34, Episode 4
Heads roll as “Henry VIII” storms his way through six wives in this bare-knuckled, two-part biography of the mercurial 16th-century tyrant. Ray Winstone stars as the jumpy Henry, who's obsessed with his father's dying command to sire a male heir. And in Part 1, that makes life difficult first for the pious Catherine of Aragon (Assumpta Serna), then for the clever and headstrong Anne Boleyn (Helena Bonham Carter). Wolsey: David Suchet.
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Eileen Atkins plays a dour antique dealer who gets her fingers burned in “Talking Heads: The Hand of God,” a dark monologue by Alan Bennett. Atkins plays Celia, who suspects the worst in everyone, and knows---just knows---what they're up to. Then a young man walks into her shop and says he's interested in a refectory table that she has been trying to unload. Following “The Hand of God” is another monologue, in which Bennett recalls his childhood.
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As “The Lost Prince” concludes, World War I overwhelms the royal family, but Johnnie (Matthew Thomas) is off in the country with his nanny, Lalla (Gina McKee), safely out of sight of his parents (Miranda Richardson, Tom Hollander). But when he isn't, he demands more attention than they're willing to give him. Meanwhile, his brother Georgie (Rollo Weeks) is chafing at military school. Stamfordham: Bill Nighy. Queen Alexandra: Bibi Andersson.
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Part 1 of “The Lost Prince,” a lavish two-part biopic of Queen Elizabeth II's epileptic and learning-disabled uncle, John (Daniel Williams and Matthew Thomas), whose short life (1905-19) paralleled the dissolution of European royalty's gilded age. Prince John was “lost” to history because he was kept hidden from public view because of his odd behavior, which is apparent as the drama opens, in 1908.
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Conclusion of “Prime Suspect 2.” Oswalde arrests, then grills an overwrought Tony Allen, while Tennison (Helen Mirren) tries to coax a deathbed confession out of David Harvey. Later, an inquiry into the death of a suspect is held. Sarah Allen: Jenny Jules. Jason Reynolds: Matt Bardock.
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“Prime Suspect 2.” Helen Mirren returns as DCI Jane Tennison in a case that begins with the discovery of skeletal remains. Part 1 of two. Oswalde: Colin Salmon. Kernan: John Benfield. David Harvey: Tom Watson. Esme Allen: Claire Benedict. Tony Allen: Fraser James.
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In the conclusion of “Prime Suspect,” DCI Tennison (Helen Mirren) is pressured by Supt. Kernan (John Benfield). Marlow: John Bowe. Moyra: Zoe Wanamaker. Amson: Gary Whelan. Havers: Mossie Smith.
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“Prime Suspect,” Part 1 of two. DCI Jane Tennison (Helen Mirren) is assigned to lead a murder probe when another DCI dies. Otley: Tom Bell. Marlow: John Bowe. Moyra: Zoe Wanamaker.
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As “Prime Suspect 6: The Last Witness” concludes, the prime suspect in the murders of the two Bosnian sisters is arrested. But Tennison (Helen Mirren) has her doubts, which send her to Bosnia, where she discovers information that proves decidedly inconvenient for senior officials at Scotland Yard. Finch: Ben Miles. Simms: Robert Pugh. Lorna: Tania Moodie. Zigic: Velibor Topic. Lukic: Oleg Menshikov. Hall: Mark Strong. Elizabeth Lukic: Clare Holman. Robert West: Liam Cunningham.
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Helen Mirren returns as world-weary London Dep. Supt. Jane Tennison in “Prime Suspect 6: The Last Witness,” a two-part murder case in which the victim is a young Bosnian Muslim woman who had been tortured. A Tennison deputy (Ben Miles) with whom she has an uneasy relationship suspects that organized crime is the key to the killing, but Tennison doubts that, and she might be proved right when the prime suspect is identified: He's a Bosnian Serb (Velibor Topic).
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As “The Forsyte Saga II” concludes, Jon (Lee Williams) finally learns the whole truth about Soames and Irene (Damian Lewis, Gina McKee), and it will have a major impact on his relationship with Fleur (Emma Griffiths Malin). It will also have a major impact on Soames, Irene and Jolyon (Rupert Graves). Proffond: Michael Maloney. Mont: Oliver Milburn. June: Gillian Kearney. Annette: Beatriz Batarda. Winifred: Amanda Root.
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“The Forsyte Saga II,” Part 2. Fleur and Jon (Emma Griffiths Malin, Lee Williams) find out that they're related, and an ailing Jolyon (Rupert Graves) makes it clear that he doesn't want their relationship to go beyond that. It's one thing that he and Soames (Damian Lewis) can agree on, but Soames is also concerned about his wife's relationship with that “dirty foreigner” Profond (Michael Maloney). Meanwhile, Dartie's luck finally changes---just in time.
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The three-part “Forsyte Saga II” chronicles the problematic romance of Soames's daughter Fleur (Emma Griffiths Malin) and Young Jolyon's son Jon (Lee Williams). As it opens it's 1909, and young Fleur and Jon are frolicking in the mud. Soames (Damian Lewis) doesn't like this. Nor does he like it when the two meet again 11 years later, and neither does Jolyon (Rupert Graves). The willful and effervescent Fleur is perplexed as to why, and when she's told she proclaims: “A family feud. How romantic!” Also in the picture: a dashing war veteran named Mont (Oliver Milburn), of whom Soames approves. Meanwhile, Jolyon has developed heart disease, but won't tell Irene (Gina McKee); and a Belgian boulevardier named Profond (Michael Maloney) attracts the eyes of both Winifred Dartie (Amanda Root) and Soames' wife Annette (Beatriz Batarda).
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As this series of “The Forsyte Saga” concludes, Soames (Damian Lewis) is desperate for a son---“on any terms!” he screams to Irene (Gina McKee). She's not about to oblige him, though the Frenchwoman Annette (Beatriz Batarda) will. But Soames must divorce Irene for that to happen. And Irene, as it happens, is growing ever closer to Young Jolyon (Rupert Graves).
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“Doctor Zhivago” concludes with Yury (Hans Matheson) and Lara (Keira Knightley) consummating their longing for each other as the Soviet revolution plays out around them. Unlike Omar Sharif and Julie Christie in David Lean's 1965 adaptation of Boris Pasternak's novel, Matheson and Knightley spend plenty of time in bed together, and while the sex is filmed decorously, it's steamy nonetheless. Meanwhile, the Communists are making life dangerous for both Yury and Lara. Komarovsky: Sam Neill.
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Keira Knightley and Hans Matheson star in a two-part 2003 remake of “Doctor Zhivago,” Boris Pasternak's sweeping novel set during the Russian Revolution. But they're together only fleetingly (and by chance) for most of Part 1. While the sensitive Yury makes his name as a physician in prerevolutionary Moscow and marries his childhood sweetheart, Tonya (Alexandra Maria Lara), the mysterious Lara (Knightley) must contend with the lecherous lawyer Komarovsky (Sam Neill).
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Martin Clunes, a veteran of the British version of “Men Behaving Badly,” is much better behaved as the gentle Victorian schoolmaster in this adaptation of James Hilton's sentimental 1934 novel “Goodbye Mr. Chips.” The episodic story follows Arthur Chipping (Clunes) throughout his adult life---all of it at the elite British boarding school Brookfield---from his disastrous first Latin class to his death following World War I. Kathie: Victoria Hamilton. Staefel: Conleth Hill. Wetherby: John Wood. Ralston: Patrick Malahide. Burnley: David Horovitch.
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Alex Kingston (“ER”) portrays Boudica, Britain's “Warrior Queen,” whacking her way through Roman legions with Xena-like zeal in this brooding, fact-based drama. It's set in the 1st century, with Britain living uneasily in a “client king” relationship with Rome. But that changes when Agrippina (Frances Barber) poisons Claudius (Jack Shepherd) and Nero (Andrew Lee Potts) becomes emperor. He'll brook nothing less than total subjugation, and battle lines are drawn. Screenwriter Andrew Davies, a “Masterpiece Theatre” veteran, also penned the adaptation of “Moll Flanders” featuring Kingston that aired on PBS in 1996.
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The conclusion of Zadie Smith's comic novel “White Teeth,” set in multicultural North London in 1992, follows another generation of Joneses and Iqbals, and, as it happens, Archie's daughter Irie (Sarah Ozeke) is in love with Samad's son Millat (Christopher Simpson), a gang banger. He loves her, too---like a sister. Later, he'll get religion, while his twin brother Magid (Simpson), whom Samad had sent to Bangladesh to find religion, finds science instead. But the two do connect (and connect with Irie as well) under the loose auspices of an arrogant geneticist named Marcus Malfen (James Bathurst), who's engineering a “FutureMouse.”
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A two-part adaptation of “White Teeth,” Zadie Smith's comic novel following two lifelong friends---a milquetoast Englishman and a tormented Bangladeshi---in multiracial North London from 1974 to 1992. As it opens, Archie Jones (Phil Davis), having just failed in a suicide attempt, finds himself at a New Year's Eve “End of the World” party. There, he meets his wife-to-be, a lapsed Jehovah's Witness from Jamaica named Clara Bowden (Naomie Harris), whose stern mother (Mona Hammond) really thinks the end is nigh. Meanwhile, intellectual Samad Iqbal (Om Puri) must take a job as a waiter in his cousin's restaurant. Iqbal's marriage was arranged in 1946. But his wife-to-be, Alsana (Archie Panjabi), wasn't born until 1955, so he had to wait for her to grow up.
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The Jury
Season 32, Episode 19
Conclusion. “The Jury” in the Davinder Singh murder case deliberates---calmly, rationally and at great length---before delivering its verdict. The evidence on both sides is compelling but not conclusive, foreman Peter (Michael Maloney) asserts, so the decision must be based “on instinct---that's all we've got.” At least until the trial's over. Michael Colchester: Peter Vaughan. Ron Maher: Jack Shepherd. Cording: Derek Jacobi. Lewis: Antony Sher.
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The Jury
Season 32, Episode 18
Part 3 of four: Cording and Lewis (Derek Jacobi and Antony Sher) make their closing arguments and “The Jury” begins its deliberations. They don't go easily after the forewoman (Gillian Barge) calls for an immediate vote. So the jurors elect a new foreman: Peter (Michael Maloney). “You look more like Henry Fonda than anyone else,” one colleague tells him. And Peter's father-in-law (Peter Vaughan) has something to tell him about the case as well. Meanwhile, Rose and Johnnie (Helen McCrory, Gerald Butler) disagree on the case. That's not the only thing dividing them.
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The Jury
Season 32, Episode 17
“The Jury” (Part 2 of four). As the trial moves into the defense phase, Davinder (Sonell Dadral) is questioned by Cording (Derek Jacobi) and prosecutor Lewis (Antony Sher), who draws blood (figuratively), and Cording fears that the case might be “slipping away.” Among the jurors, Elsie (Sylvia Syms) hears bad news from her Sikh doctor (Paul Bhattacharjee); Charles (Stuart Bunce) has an uncomfortable reunion with the woman he left when he entered the seminary; Peter's father-in-law (Peter Vaughan) plays detective; and Rose (Helen McCrory ) and Johnnie (Gerard Butler) find each other. But Rose's husband (Mark Strong) finds them together.
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The Jury
Season 32, Episode 16
“The Jury.” In Part 1 of this four-part drama, 12 men and women deliberate on the fate of a Sikh teenager accused of killing a schoolmate while they wrestle with their own problems when they're not in London's Old Bailey courthouse (where parts of the drama were filmed). Circumstantial evidence in the case is damning, so the defense counsel (Derek Jacobi) has his work cut out for him. Meanwhile, the victim's roughneck brothers are certain that the defendant is guilty, and they let one juror (Nina Sosanya) know it in a very threatening manner.
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As “Daniel Deronda” concludes, Daniel (Hugh Dancy) finds himself drawn to the Jewish singer Mirah (Jodhi May) and to the Zionism espoused by her brother (Daniel Evans), while Gwendolen (Romola Garai) looks to Daniel as her only respite from her reptilian husband, Grandcourt (Hugh Bonneville). Meanwhile, Sir Hugo (Edward Fox) reveals to Daniel the identity of his mother. Contessa Maria Alcharisi: Barbara Hershey.
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A two-part adaptation of “Daniel Deronda,” George Eliot's 1874 novel about romantic treachery and ethnic consciousness in Victorian England, begins with headstrong Gwendolen Harleth (Romola Garai) getting herself trapped in an oppressive marriage to the arrogant Henleigh Grandcourt (Hugh Bonneville). Meanwhile, Daniel Deronda (Hugh Dancy), a proper English gentleman (and a gentle man), befriends a distressed young Jewish singer (Jodhi May). But Deronda also has an eye for Gwendolen, and vice versa. Sir Hugo: Edward Fox. Lydia Glasier: Greta Scacchi.
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The series of “Foyle's War” mysteries concludes with “Eagle Day.” A German bombing raid destroys a Hastings house, but a man found dead in the rubble has a knife in his chest, so Foyle (Michael Kitchen) is called in to investigate. Meanwhile, the RAF has sent Foyle's son Andrew (Julian Ovenden) back to Hastings. “Some sort of cloak and dagger show,” he tells his father. It turns out to involve radar. And Foyle is disturbed at the prospect of losing his driver Sam (Honeysuckle Weeks), whose father is demanding that she return home.
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“Foyle's War: A Lesson in Murder.” An 11-year-old evacuee from London staying with a Hastings judge (Oliver Ford Davies) is killed in a booby trap and Foyle (Michael Kitchen) has two theories to investigate. One involves the judge's refusal to allow his daughter (Sophia Myles) to see her working-class boyfriend (Elliot Cowan). The other involves a pacifist who died in prison not long after the judge denied his request for conscientious-objector status. Meanwhile, Sam (Honeysuckle Weeks) begins dating the son of the owner of Hastings' Italian restaurant. Tony: Danny Dyer. Emily Gascoigne: Cheryl Campbell.
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In “Foyle's War: The White Feather,” the fascist-leaning proprietor of a Hastings hotel is shot to death during a get-together of Nazi sympathizers at the hotel. Foyle (Michael Kitchen) isn't certain that the victim (Maggie Steed) was the person that the killer had intended to shoot because the shooting occurred during a power outage. Foyle's also concerned by a puzzling act of sabotage by a troubled young hotel employee (Lisa Ellis). The act was minor (just one severed telephone line) but the timing's particularly distressing. It takes place during the Dunkirk evacuation of May 1940, when a German invasion was feared immanent. Guy Spencer: Charles Dance. Sam: Honeysuckle Weeks.
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“Foyle's War.” A taciturn British police detective (Michael Kitchen) who'd rather be off fighting for his country battles crime at home instead in this series of four mysteries set during World War II in the English Channel town of Hastings. In the opener, it's May 1940 and residents fear Nazi attacks, so Germans aren't especially welcome. But when the German wife of a rich local magistrate is murdered, Foyle doesn't assume that the motive was patriotism gone amok, even though a swastika was carved on a tree near the spot where the body was found. Sam: Honeysuckle Weeks. Summers: Edward Fox.
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Affairs of state take a back seat to affairs of another kind in “Me and Mrs. Jones,” a seriocomic romance set at No. 10 Downing St. Robson Green (“Touching Evil”) stars as a party fund-raiser named Harry Frazier. But Harry is really gossip columnist Liam Marple, whose nom de plume is “Mrs. Jones.” His mission: dig up dirt on Prime Minister Laura Bowden (Caroline Goodall). Harry has no trouble worming his way into the PM's life, which makes his tabloid job easy. And making it easier still is the fact that Laura's husband (Philip Quast) is a flagrant philanderer. Soon, Laura and Harry start philandering themselves.
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Richard Roxburgh trades Sherlock Holmes' traditional deerstalker for a top hat as he stalks a Devonshire moor in “The Hound of the Baskervilles,” Arthur Conan Doyle's 1901 who(or what)dunit. If it's a what, it's the deadly ghost of the hound that killed Sir Hugo Baskerville in the 17th century. And as this mystery opens, Sir Hugo's descendant, Charles, is literally scared to death by the sight of it. Charles' heir, Sir Henry (Matt Day), doesn't know what to think as he arrives at Baskerville Hall. But Holmes suspects that the spectral hound isn't all that's lurking on the moor. Watson: Ian Hart.
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“My Uncle Silas II.” Albert Finney returns as a lovable Edwardian-era rascal making the most of life---and, not infrequently, lust---in the bucolic English countryside. The two-hour program consists of five more sketches based on short stories by H.E. Bates (1905-74). “Your Uncle Silas is a rogue, but sometimes he can be a saint,” a nurse named Topsy (Jacquetta May)---whom he seduces---tells his great-nephew Ned (Joe Prospero) in the final story, in which Silas comes to the aid of a dotty war veteran (Bryan Pringle). Earlier, he helps a farmhand (Tony Maudsley) win a farm maid (Sandy McDade). Silas seduces her, too. Mrs. Betts: Sue Johnston.
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“The Forsyte Saga,” Part 6. It's 1899, and Soames (Damian Lewis), 43, decides he wants a child. And since he can't divorce Irene, he wants her to be the mother. As usual, he won't take no for an answer. As for Irene (Gina McKee), she has found a friend in Young Jolyon (Rupert Graves). Meanwhile, Dartie (Ben Miles) has returned from South America, and Winifred (Amanda Root) has taken him back. But their son Val (Julian Ovenden) isn't so forgiving. Val has also fallen in love, with Jolyon's daughter Holly (Amanda Ryan), much to the distress of Holly's brother Jolly (Christian Coulson).
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“The Forsyte Saga,” Part 5. Old Jolyson's bequest finally gives Irene financial security. Twelve years later, Soames (Damian Lewis) decides to divorce her. “We're two peas in a pod---both abandoned,” he tells his sister, Winifred (Amanda Root), when her blackguard husband, Dartie (Ben Miles), leaves her after one losing night too many at the gaming table. Irene: Gina McKee.
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"The Forsyte Saga." As Part 4 (of seven) opens, Irene (Gina McKee) has left Soames (Damian Lewis), and it has been left to June to bury Bosinney. But there are also "new beginnings": Old Jolyon buys Robin Hill, the house Bosinney designed for Soames, and moves there with June, Young Jolyon and his family. Five years later, the now-lonely Old Jolyon meets Irene, who's now a music teacher. She has suffered through hard times since leaving Soames. "We can be pathetic together," he tells her.
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Part 3. Bosinney (Ioan Gruffudd) awaits the judge's ruling in Soames' lawsuit against him. But he and Irene (Gina McKee) plan to run off together no matter what. After all, he tells her, “respectability won't keep you warm at night.” Soames (Damian Lewis), however, won't give her up without a fight. Meanwhile, Old Jolyon (Corin Redgrave) wants to “retire from London,” and take Young Jolyon (Rupert Graves) and his family---June (Gillian Kearney) included---with him.
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“The Forsyte Saga” (Part 2 of seven). Irene (Gina McKee) and architect Philip Bosinney (Ioan Gruffudd) only have eyes for each other, and Bosinney's heartbroken fiancée (Gillian Kearney) sees it. She's not the only Forsyte who does. Not surprisingly, Irene is growing ever more miserable in her marriage to the chilly Soames (Damian Lewis), whose hatred for Bosinney grows as the country house Bosinney's building for him rises. Soames complains bitterly---too bitterly---about cost overruns. Swithin: Robert Lang. Dartie: Ben Miles.
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The series presents a high-gloss remake of “The Forsyte Saga,” John Galsworthy's sprawling Victorian-family soap opera. The first “Forsyte Saga” (which premiered on U.S. public television in 1969) followed the often overlapping romantic affairs of one upper-class London family in 26 episodes. Here it's seven, and Part 1 starts out with young Jolyon Forsyte (Rupert Graves) dumping his wife for his daughter's governess (Amanda Ooms). Later, Jolyon's cousin Soames (Damian Lewis), an austere lawyer, falls hard for the cash-poor Irene Heron (Gina McKee). Bosinney: Ioan Gruffudd.
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An Australian-TV adaptation of Jill Ker Conway's memoir “The Road from Coorain” chronicles the academic's childhood on a New South Wales sheep ranch in the late 1930s and '40s, and her high-achieving college years in Sydney. “However hard I try to tell my own story,” the adult Jill (Katherine Slattery) says in a voice-over, “it becomes the story of my mother” (Juliet Stevenson), who raises her “to understand duty.” But as a girl, Jill develops just as close a tie with her less-tightly-wound father (Richard Boxburgh). And as a young woman she meets an American (Tim Guinee), who loosens her even more.
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Innocents
Season 31, Episode 18
“Innocents,” a docudrama charting a disturbingly high mortality rate among pediatric cardiac patients at one British hospital in the 1990s. The reason: incompetent surgeons. But mothers Julie Johnson and Sharon Peacock (Kate Redshaw, Emma Cunniffe) don't know that when they entrust their young sons to Drs. Janarda Dhasmana (Madhav Sharma) and James Wishart (Tim Piggott-Smith), the imperious surgical chief. Anesthesiologist Steve Bolsin (Aden Gillett) suspects a problem. Trouble is, he doesn't have nearly as much clout as Wishart does.
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“The Way We Live Now,” conclusion. In the wake of Paul Montague's disclosure about the railroad, Malmotte (David Suchet) admits to being “overstretched.” In fact, what money he does have is in Marie's name, and Marie (Shirley Henderson) isn't inclined to let him have it. But prospects are not so bleak for the Carburys, though Hetta (Paloma Baeza) concedes that her liaison with Paul leaves much to be desired. “It's so messy and complicated and compromised,” she says.
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“The Way We Live Now” (Part 3 of four). Melmotte (David Suchet) is elected to Parliament with stirring talk of “a new kind of empire.” But his campaign expenses are considerable, and Paul Montague (Cillian Murphy) has questions about the source of the money. The answers he receives from Melmotte aren't satisfactory, but the one he receives from Hetta (Paloma Baeza) is---temporarily. Meanwhile, Sir Felix's run of bad luck continues. Sir Felix: Matthew Macfadyen.
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Part 2of 4. “The Way We Live Now.” Since Marie Melmotte (Shirley Henderson) will be cut off if she weds Sir Felix (Matthew Macfayden), she proposes elopement. It seems she has funds of her own Meanwhile, Montague (Cillian Murphy) has doubts about Melmotte's plans for the railroad project. He also attempts to uncouple himself from Mrs. Hurtle (Miranda Otto) so he can pursue Hetta (Paloma Baeza). And Georgina Longestaffe (Anne-Marie Duff), in pursuit of a husband, seeks out Melmotte's assistance.
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David Suchet plays a shady financier who buys his way into Victorian society in a four-part adaptation of “The Way We Live Now,” Anthony Trollope's 1875 treatise on greed. Victorian society is only too willing to sell itself to Augustus Melmotte (Suchet) because he has what the land-rich, cash-poor aristocrats want: money. In Part 1, for instance, Sir Felix Carbury (Matthew Macfayden), a cad who has squandered his inheritance, sets out to win the very willing heart of Melmotte's daughter (Shirley Henderson). Sir Felix's mother (Cheryl Campbell) thinks it's a wonderful idea. Hetta: Paloma Baeza.
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Lucky Jim
Season 31, Episode 13
Stephen Tompkinson is “Lucky Jim” Dixon, a constantly set-upon lecturer at an obscure British university, in a low-key adaptation of Kingsley Amis's 1954 comic novel. “I was going to make history by teaching it,” Jim says wearily, looking back at his grand ambition. Standing in Jim's way is his arrogant, bumbling department head, Neddy Welch (Robert Hardy). Jim's love life is no more promising: the woman (Keeley Hawes) he pines for is “tied up” with Neddy's haughty artist son (Stephen Mangan).
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"Love in a Cold Climate" (Conclusion). Linda's marriage to the communist Christian raises few eyebrows, but Polly's betrothal to Boy Dougdale (Anthony Andrews) raises many. Particularly appalled: Polly's parents (Sheila Gish, John Standing), so they write her out of their wills (a shame for Polly, since they're so rich), and replace her with a Canadian cousin, Cedric Hampton (Daniel Evans), who's no lumberjack. Polly: Megan Dodds. Linda: Elisabeth Dermot Walsh. Fanny: Rosamund Pike.
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Upper-class British life in the 1930s gets a droll sendup in “Love in a Cold Climate,” a two-part adaptation of Nancy Mitford's novels charting the love lives of three young women. Fanny (Rosamund Pike), who narrates the story, spends most of her time with her cousin Linda (Elisabeth Dermot-Walsh), the perpetually lovestruck daughter of the blustering Lord Radlett (Alan Bates). Rounding out the trio: Fanny's friend Polly (Megan Dodds), who's just back from India. Linda's the first to wed, and she does it for love. But it cools quickly. Boy Dougdale: Anthony Andrews.
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“Bertie and Elizabeth,” a warm love story chronicling the 30-year romance of Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon (Juliet Aubrey) and the man who became King George VI (James Wilby). “I hate being noticed,” says “Bertie,” the Duke of York, who's happy that his playboy brother David (Charles Edwards) will become king when their father, George V (Alan Bates), dies. Bertie and Elizabeth settle down quietly to raise their family but things won't be quiet for long. For starters, there's the matter of David and “the woman I love.” Queen Mary: Eileen Atkins. Winston Churchill: David Ryall. FDR: Robert Hardy. Wallis Simpson: Amber Rose Sealey.
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Othello
Season 31, Episode 9
Shakespeare gets a major overhaul in a modern-language adaptation of “Othello,” the Bard's 1604 tragedy of jealousy and revenge. British screenwriter Andrew Davies also updated the action to present-day London, altered character names and tweaked the plot (making it a police drama). Here, noble John Othello (Eamonn Walker) is a protégé of diabolical Ben Jago (Christopher Eccleston) in the Metropolitan Police, but it's Othello who's appointed commissioner, whereupon Jago plots his downfall.
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"The Murder of Stephen Lawrence" charts a Jamaican immigrant couple's five-year battle for justice in the face of what they see as institutional racism in Britain's judicial system. Hugh Quarshie and Marianne Jean-Baptiste star as Neville and Doreen Lawrence, whose 18-year-old son Stephen was stabbed to death in April 1993 while waiting for a bus in southeast London. The assailants, five white-supremacist teens, are identified immediately, but the police don't arrest them for two weeks.
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Albert Finney is “My Uncle Silas,” a lovable old Edwardian-era rascal who teaches an impressionable 10-year-old how to live in five short stories by English author H.E. Bates (1905-74). As the first one opens, young Edward (Joe Prospero) is on his way to spend his summer holiday in the country with Silas, whose stern sister Tibby is agasht. Silas, she harrumphs, is “a drunkard, a sinner and a nonconformist.” Edward is immediately intrigued. But then, most people are intrigued by Silas, women especially.
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Autumn 1941: The war grinds on and “The Cazalets” go on with their lives as this five-part drama concludes. Some Cazalet upper lips are less stiff than others, the pacifist Christopher's being the slackest---he has a nervous breakdown. Elsewhere, Sybil (Anastasia Hille) is dying of cancer, but Edward (Stephen Dillane) is more worried about the consequences of his affair with Diana (Anna Chancellor), who has bad news for him. And speaking of news, a visiting French officer has some for Clary (Florence Hoath).
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"The Cazalets." It's autumn 1940 as Part 4 (of five) begins, and Rupert is still missing in France. So Clary (Florence Hoath) writes to Gen. DeGaulle asking about him. Meanwhile, her stepmother Zoe (Joanna Page) volunteers at a hospital; Louise's budding relationship with portraitist Michael Hadleigh troubles her mother; Christopher's pacifism earns him little sympathy; Hugh continues to wrestle with Sybil's illness; and young Neville runs away (destination: Ireland) to "start a new life."
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Part 3. It's 1940 and World War II hits home for "The Cazalets" when Rupert is reported missing in action---just as Zoe (Joanna Page) gives birth to their daughter. Meanwhile, Villy's sister (Jessica Turner) and her pacifist son (Nicholas Audsley) arrive; Sybill (Anastasia Hille) is hospitalized; Rachel and Sid (Catherine Russell, Penny Downie) quarrel; Louise (Emma Griffiths Malin) catches the eye of a painter; Edward tires of Diana; and young Neville teaches younger Lydia "rude words."
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War is declared as Part 2 (of four) of “The Cazalets” begins, and Rupert (Paul Rhys) enlists in the Navy, much to Zoe's dismay, particularly since she's pregnant again. Meanwhile, Edward (Stephen Dillane) is in London, as is his daughter Louise (Emma Griffiths Malin), who sees her father with his mistress (Anna Chancellor) in a theater. Back in Sussex, Sybil (Anastasia Hille) takes ill; and Tonbridge (John McArdle) is sick at heart after his estranged wife (Claire Hackett) tells him the truth about their son (Gregg Prentice) and takes him away. Zoe: Joanna Page.
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World War II clouds life for a well-to-do British family in “The Cazalets,” a four-part adaptation of Elizabeth Jane Howard's novels. It opens in 1937 as the Cazalets leave London and the timber business run by eldest son Hugh (Hugh Bonneville) for their summer holiday at their Sussex estate. However, second son Edward (Stephen Dillane) would rather be with mistresses than with his wife (Lesley Manville); and youngest son Rupert (Paul Rhys), an artist, refuses to join the company.
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A sleek adaptation unfolds of the Royal National Theatre's 1999 modern-day staging of Shakespeare's “The Merchant of Venice,” the controversial drama about Shylock (Henry Goodman), the Jew who lends the merchant Antonio (David Bamber) money to bankroll his friend Bassanio's courtship of the heiress Portia (Derbhle Crotty). If Antonio can't repay, Shylock gets a pound of his flesh. Director Trevor Nunn sets the action in early-1930s cafe society.
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Patricia Routledge stars in “Talking Heads 2: Miss Fozzard Finds Her Feet,” a sly Alan Bennett monologue about a department-store clerk who edges into an (ahem) unusual relationship with her chiropodist. Miss Fozzard must deal with both sore feet and her brother Bernard, who has suffered a stroke. An Australian therapist is engaged to care for Bernard; as for her feet, there's Mr. Dunderdale, a genteel widower who charms her utterly.
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As “Take a Girl Like You” concludes, Patrick's obsession with Jenny (Sienna Guillory) has reached the point where he has lost interest in other women, no matter how available they might be. And Jenny has begun to reconsider her opposition to sleeping with Patrick (Rupert Graves). But her viginity is “special” to her and she won't part with it easily. Julian: Hugh Bonneville. Dick: Robert Daws. Martha: Emma Chambers. Anna: Kathy Kiera-Clarke. Graham: Ian Driver.
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A two-part adaptation of “Take a Girl like You,” Kingsley Amis's 1960 comic novel about love and lust in the1950s, opens with lothario Patrick Standish (Rupert Graves) eyeing virginal Jenny Bunn (Sienna Guillory), a suburban-London teacher who is both “unnecessarily pretty” and “a nice girl.” And Patrick is hardly her only pursuer. So, he sighs, “it's going to be a long haul then.” Andrew Davies (“Wives and Daughters”) wrote the screenplay. Dick: Robert Daws. Martha: Emma Chambers. Julian: Hugh Bonneville. Graham: Ian Driver.
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Daughters become wives as “Wives and Daughters” concludes, but first Cynthia's broken engagement to the vaguely sinister Preston (Iain Glen) comes back to haunt her. Meanwhile, Molly (Justine Waddell) is also linked to Preston by Hollingford gossips. Needless to say, Cynthia's old liaison with Preston has repercussions on her engagement to Roger Hamley (Anthony Howell). And that, in turn, has repercussions for Molly. Cynthia: Keeley Hawes. Mr. Gibson: Bill Paterson. Hyacinth: Francesca Annis. Squire Hamley: Michael Gambon.
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“Wives and Daughters” (Part 3 of four). Roger Hamley's affections for Cynthia (Keeley Hawes) blossom into an engagement but not a formal one, for he's soon off for Africa for two years---a development that upsets Molly (Justine Waddell) more than Cynthia. Lurking in the shadows, meanwhile, is Mr. Preston (Iain Glen), the land agent of dubious reputation. And keeping a keen eye on things are the gossiping Browning sisters (Barbara Flynn, Deborah Findlay). Roger: Anthony Howell. Mr. Gibson: Bill Paterson. Hyacinth: Francesca Annis. Squire Hamley: Michael Gambon.
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In Part 2 of “Wives and Daughters,” Molly (Justine Waddell) finally meets her stepsister, Cynthia (Keeley Hawes). Surprisingly, they get along famously. But there is a problem: Roger Hamley (Anthony Howell), whom Molly fancies, takes a fancy to Cynthia. Meanwhile, Roger's brother Osborne (Tom Hollander) continues to disappoint his father, Squire Hamley (Michael Gambon)---and Osborne has yet to tell him that he has married a Frenchwoman. Mr. Gibson: Bill Paterson. Hyacinth: Francesca Annis. Mr. Preston: Iain Glen.
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A four-part adaptation of “Wives and Daughters,” novelist Elizabeth Gaskell's 1864 chronicle of the life and loves of a young woman in an 1820s English country town. She's Molly Gibson (Justine Waddell), the 17-year-old daughter of a kindly widowed physician (Bill Paterson). As Part 1begins, Molly's sent to stay with a local squire (Michael Gambon) whose two sons are away---for now---at Cambridge. Meanwhile, her father is about to remarry, to a self-centered, manipulative woman named Hyacinth (Francesca Annis), whom Molly can't abide.
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As the reedited, two-part version of “Traffik,” the 1989 British miniseries that inspired the movie “Traffic,” concludes, Caroline (Julia Ormond) is sinking deeper into addiction. Meanwhile, Tariq instructs Fazal in heroin manufacturing, and Helen tries to prevent Ledesert from testifying against Karl. Lithgow: Bill Paterson. Tariq: Talat Hussain. Fazal: Jamal Shah. Ledesert: Peter Lakenmacher. Helen: Lindsay Duncan.
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A reedited, two-part version of “Traffik,” the 1989 British miniseries that inspired the movie “Traffic,” opens in Hamburg, where two undercover cops confiscate 70 kilos of Pakistani heroin. Meanwhile, British government minister Jack Lithgow (Bill Paterson) is in Pakistan, checking on a British aid program for farmers that's aimed at eradicating poppy crops. Dieter: Tilo Pruckner. Ulli: Fritz Muller-Scherz. Karl: George Kukura. Helen: Lindsay Duncan. Fazal: Jamal Shah. Caroline: Julia Ormond.
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As the concluding episode of “Anna Karenina” begins, Anna (Helen McCrory) gives birth to Vronsky's child, and she and Vronsky (Kevin McKidd) live together as husband and wife. But their union won't be consummated legally; Karenin (Stephen Dillane) sees to that. Meanwhile, Levin (Douglas Henshall) and Kitty (Paloma Baeza) decide to get married, but he's the hesitant one. Stiva: Mark Strong. Dolly: Amanda Root. Nikolai Levin: Paul Rhys. Betsy: Abigail Cruttenden. Countess Vronskaya: Sara Kestelman.
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Helen McCrory and Kevin McKidd star as Russian literature's most celebrated adulterers in a two-part adaptation of Leo Tolstoy's timeless 1877 novel “Anna Karenina.” McKidd plays the dashing cavalry officer Vronsky, who falls passionately in love with Anna (McCrory), but her formidable diplomat husband Karenin (Stephen Dillane) stands in their way. Meanwhile, Kitty (Paloma Baeza), the young woman Vronsky jilts when he falls for Anna, has another admirer in Constantine Levin (Douglas Henshall).
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As “Bramwell” concludes, Eleanor (Jemma Redgrave) must contend with the consequences of her fascination with Maj. Guy Quarrie (David Bark-Jones). But as the episode opens, she must also deal with something more immediate: the Thrift is inundated with victims of a brothel fire. As a result of it, she learns something about Dr. Marsham (Kevin McMonagle), and from it she becomes obsessed with child prostitution, personified in a girl named Dora (Eleanor Kirk).
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“Bramwell” (Part 4 of five). It's 1899, and London is swept up in Boer War fever. Even Eleanor (Jemma Redgrave) does her part for the military. But Marsham (Kevin McMonagle) is a pacifist, and that complicates their relationship. So does Maj. Guy Quarrie (David Bark-Jones), who arrives at the Thrift to question a Dutch man (Jeorg Stadler) who was pulled, near death, from a canal. But there's nothing complicated about the feelings of Nurse Carr (Ruth Sheen) for Sgt. Nelson Reid (Eamon Boland).
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“Bramwell”: Robert and Mrs. Costigan (David Calder, Maureen Beattie) prepare to wed. That augers change for Eleanor (Jemma Redgrave) as well, thanks to Robert, who vows to cut her off if she remains at the Thrift because he fears for her safety. One reason for his fear: she's attacked at a prenuptial party there by the recently hired porter (Berwick Kaler), a friend of the mortified Nurse Carr (Ruth Sheen), who can't hold his liquor.
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“Bramwell”: Dr. Marsham (Kevin McMonagle) is anything but impressed when a goiter patient he had written off is cured after a faith healer (David Bradley) lays his hands on the man. “It just can't be,” Marsham tells Eleanor (Jemma Redgrave). Meanwhile, Marsham, who's not coping with the death of his wife, sends his daughters to the country to live with their aunt. Rawlings: Sebastian Abineri. Nurse Carr: Ruth Sheen.
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Jemma Redgrave is feisty Victorian-era physician Eleanor “Bramwell” in the final series of episodes (five in all). First up: Eleanor and her physician father Robert (David Calder) are treating Emmaline O'Neill (Paloma Baeza), the bride of Eleanor's erstwhile fiancé Finn (Andrew Connolly). She's suffering from an infection caused by an injection, and Robert suspects that Finn, a medical researcher specializing in vaccines, is trying to kill her.
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The series' "American Collection" continues with "The American," Henry James' 1877 novel about an American in Paris. Matthew Modine stars as a brash parvenu who made his money in the American West. He's in Paris to soak up the culture and find a wife, and he soon finds the icy Claire de Cintre (Aisling O'Sullivan), who's descended from Bourbon kings. He melts her heart, but to say that her family disapproves would be a decided understatement. Madame de Bellegarde: Diana Rigg.
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“A Rather English Marriage” is an affecting odd-couple story starring Albert Finney and Tom Courtenay as older men who share quarters after their wives die. The film won the British Academy of Film and Television's Best TV Drama for 1998-99. Finney plays gregarious aristocrat Reggie Cunningham-Jarvis; Courtenay (the BAFTA winner for best actor in a TV drama) is meek retired milkman Roy Southgate. Joanna Lumley costars as the middle-aged boutique owner who complicates things when she takes an interest in Reggie.
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In 1908, an upper-crust Englishwoman (Georgina Cates) falls in love with a hunky peasant (Sean Pertwee) in “Stiff Upper Lips,” a spoof of stuffy British costume dramas. Horace: Peter Ustinov. Aunt Ivory: Prunella Scales. Edward: Samuel West. Cedric: Robert Portal.
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A charming adaptation of "The Railway Children," Edith Nesbit's 1906 children's novel about three spunky youngsters who are suddenly impoverished when their father (Michael Kitchen) mysteriously leaves their comfortable London home. Their mother (Jenny Agutter) takes the trio (Jack Blumenau, Clare Thomas and Jemima Rooper) to a ramshackle country house near a railway station. There, they fend for themselves and make many friends.
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Mrs. Brown
Season 30, Episode 4
Judi Dench received an Oscar nomination for her stirring performance as the widowed Queen Victoria in “Mrs. Brown.” John Brown: Billy Connolly. Benjamin Disraeli: Antony Sher. Sir Henry: Geoffrey Palmer. Archie Brown: Gerald Butler. John Madden directed.
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A stately adaptation of Langston Hughes' short story “Cora Unashamed” stars Regina Taylor as maid Cora Jenkins, the only African-American in the small Iowa town of Melton. Cora's proper and stern employer (Cherry Jones) is constantly bullying everyone, especially her emotionally fragile and intellectually slow daughter, Jessie. Cora's appalled, but she couldn't possibly speak out. Or could she? Jessie (age 18): Ellen Muth. Jessie (age 5): Molly Graham. Arthur: Michael Gaston.
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In Part 2 (of three), "Oliver Twist" (Sam Smith) wants more from life than either the workhouse or the undertaker Sowerberry are about to offer, so he runs away to London. His creepy half-brother Monks (Marc Warren) is in hot pursuit and, as luck (Monks' luck) would have it, Oliver finds his way to Fagin's den of thieves. Fagin: Robert Lindsay. Mrs. Mann: Julie Walters. Mr. Brownlow: Michael Kitchen. Elizabeth Leeford: Lindsay Duncan. Mr. Bumble: David Ross. Bill Sikes: Andy Serkis.
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“All is revealed” in the conclusion of “Oliver Twist.” First, Oliver (Sam Smith) survives the shooting at Mr. Brownlow's country estate. Then he's taken in by Mrs. Bedwin (Annette Crosbie) and it's all uphill from there. “That boy will go to heaven,” fumes Fagin (Robert Lindsay) as he sees him go by in Mr. Brownlow's carriage. Brownlow: Michael Kitchen. Monks: Marc Warren. Bill Sikes: Andy Serkis. Nancy: Emily Woof.
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This striking three-part take on Charles Dickens' beloved rags-to-riches saga "Oliver Twist." Part 1 is a prequel, composed of material Dickens put at the end of his serialization of the story in 1839, frontloaded and fleshed out by British dramatist Alan Bleasdale. It's something of a riches-to-rags tale about Oliver's star-crossed parents (Tim Dutton, Sophia Myles) and the mess Oliver (Sam Smith) found himself in when he entered the world. Elizabeth: Lindsay Duncan. Edward: Marc Warren.
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As “Monsignor Renard” concludes, Helene (Juliette Caton) confides in Renard about her attack and has another secret: she's pregnant. Her plight only worsens when Etienne is arrested after attacking Alois, turning the townspeople against her. Etienne: Dominic Monaghan. Alois: Torben Liebrecht. Drexler: Bernd-Uwe Reppenhagen. Mme. Dufosse: Barbara Kellerman. Renard: John Thaw.
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In Part 2 of “Monsignor Renard,” the shooting of a French colonial upsets the townspeople, and Renard's condemnation in the pulpit only intensifies the friction between him and Major Drexler (Bernd-Uwe Reppenhagen). Meanwhile, Madame Dufosse (Barbara Kellerman) learns she's part Jewish, and Renard is forced to entertain a German bishop. Renard: John Thaw. Field Bishop: Herb Andress. Helene: Juliette Caton. Etienne: Dominic Monaghan. Madeline: Cheryl Campbell.
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John Thaw (Mystery!'s “Inspector Morse”) stars as “Monsignor Renard” in a three-part drama about a French priest trying to lead his flock during the Nazi occupation. In Part 1, Renard helps gain the release of a family arrested for sheltering a nephew, a French soldier. Madeleine: Cheryl Campbell. Helene: Juliette Caton. Gagnepain: Jimmy Yuill. Brandt: Klaus Schreiber. Drexler: Bernd-Uwe Reppenhagen.
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Seeing Red
Season 29, Episode 18
A British TV star gives up the glamorous life to start a home for disturbed children in “Seeing Red,” a dramatization of the life of Coral Atkins (Sarah Lancashire). During a publicity appearance at a children's home, she sees a staff seemingly at war with the kids and decides to open a home of her own. It becomes an obsession, and one reason for it (seen in childhood flashbacks) comes out in therapy following an on-stage breakdown. Sylvia: Lizzy McInnerny. Dr. O'Gorman: Nicholas Geks. Chris: Robert Curbishley.
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As "David Copperfield" concludes, the adult David (Cieran McMenamin) is determined to win the heart of Dora Spenlow (Joanna Page). He does, but "dark clouds" gather elsewhere, in the forms of his old school benefactor Steerforth (Oliver Milburn) and that "reptile" Uriah Heep (Nicholas Lyndhurst). Betsey Trotwood: Maggie Smith. Mr. Micawber: Bob Hoskins. Agnes Wickfield: Amanda Ryan. Mrs. Steerforth: Cherie Lunghi. Rosa Dartle: Clare Holman. Mr. Dick: Ian McNeice. Peggotty: Pauline Quirke.
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Bob Hoskins (as Micawber) heads a strong British cast in a two-part adaptation of "David Copperfield," Charles Dickens' sprawling 1850 coming-of-age classic. It begins with David (Daniel Radcliffe) in blissful childhood, which ends when his mother (Emilia Fox) weds the tyrannical Mr. Murdstone (Trevor Eve). "What is before you is a fight with the world," Murdstone snarls. "The sooner you begin it, the better." Betsey: Maggie Smith. Peggoty: Pauline Quirke. Creakle: Ian McKellen.
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Jodhi May shines in an elegant adaptation of “The Turn of the Screw,” Henry James' 1898 musings on ghosts and the corruption---perhaps---of innocent youth at an English country estate. May plays the governess, who's certain she's seeing the ghosts of her late predecessor and a former valet. She's also certain that they're turning her two young charges (Grace Robinson, Joe Sowerbutts) toward evil. Mrs. Grose: Pam Ferris.
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David Jason stars in “All the King's Men,” about a WWI British regiment (composed of workers at the royal estate at Sandringham), which goes into combat at Gallipoli in 1915. There, legend has it, the men disappeared into a “golden cloud,” but as dramatized here, their fate was far grislier. Jason plays their stiff-upper-lipped (but big-hearted) commander, Capt. Frank Beck. Queen Alexandra: Maggie Smith. George V: David Troughton. Howlett: Patrick Malahide. Edwards: Ian McDiarmid.
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In the conclusion of “Madame Bovary,” Emma (Frances O'Connor) is passionately in love with Rodolphe (Greg Wise). But the rest of her life is not so good. “The world is making a mockery of me,” she moans to Rodolphe, and soon, even he rejects her. Then, in Rouen, she meets up again with Leon (Hugh Dancy), and more passion ensues. As always, her husband Charles (Hugh Bonneville) remains faithful---and, by and large, clueless. He also gives her control of their finances. Lhereux: Keith Barron.
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Frances O'Connor (“Mansfield Park”) stars in a two-part adaptation of “Madame Bovary,” Gustave Flaubert's classic novel about an adulteress's quest for fulfillment. As Part 1 opens (in 1830s France), young Emma Rouault (O'Connor) is in a convent. But not for long. She marries country doctor Charles Bovary (Hugh Bonneville), but he can't satisfy her. Next, she is aroused---but unfulfilled---by a young clerk named Leon (Hugh Dancy). Then she meets the dashing Rodolphe (Greg Wise). Rouault: Trevor Peacock.
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Bramwell 5
Season 29, Episode 11
In Part 4 of “Bramwell 5,” Robert (David Calder) is about to make a new start: he's moving to plush new offices and plans to propose to Alice Costigan (Maureen Beattie). Complicating matters is his banker's hypochondriacal wife (Lynsey Baxter), who's obsessed with Robert and comes on to him. At the Thrift, Sidney (Ben Brazier) is also infatuated, with a cute young patient (Lisa Marsh). Eleanor: Jemma Redgrave.
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Bramwell 5
Season 29, Episode 10
“Bramwell 5”: Eleanor (Jemma Redgrave) tries to mend her broken heart at the country estate of an old medical-school friend (Joanna Roth) and her philandering husband (Julian Wadham), who wants to draw her out of her melancholy personally. And as always, there are causes for Eleanor to pursue: a bright and promising servant girl (Laura Crossley) turns up pregnant; and the poor children in the nearby village are coming down with the measles, but their rude and indifferent schoolmaster (Ken Bones) isn't moved to do anything about it.
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Bramwell 5
Season 29, Episode 9
“Bramwell”: Nurse Carr (Ruth Sheen) is at her wits' end trying to keep her dotty mother (Gwenllian Davies) from causing trouble, so she steals opium to sedate her. Bramwell and Marsham (David Calder and Kevin McMonagle) blame young Sidney (Ben Brazier), but Charlotte Adler (Alexandria Lilley), an aristocratic dilletante getting her first taste of medicine at the Thrift, discovers the truth. And all this commotion couldn't come at a worse time: with Eleanor away, “we're all rushed off our feet,” as her father puts it.
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Bramwell 5
Season 29, Episode 8
“Bramwell 5.” Jemma Redgrave plays the earnest Victorian-era Dr. Eleanor Bramwell. As the opener begins, in 1897, Eleanor's intended, Dr. Finn O'Neill (Andrew Connolly) returns from America with news that he has married someone else (Paloma Baeza). Meanwhile, at the clinic she runs with her father (David Calder), Eleanor's concerned about a woman (Cara Kelly) whose alcoholic husband is constantly beating her.
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In the conclusion of “Shooting the Past,” Oswald (Timothy Spall) devises a devious---if seemingly passive---plan to save the photo collection. Meanwhile, Marilyn (Lindsay Duncan) tries a more direct---and seemingly conventional---tactic to appeal to Anderson (Liam Cunningham). The two approaches form a neat---if unintended---synergy. Veronica: Billie Whitelaw. Spig: Emilia Fox. Nick: Blake Ritson. Garnett: Arj Barker. Styeman: Andy Serkis.
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“Shooting the Past” is a telling two-part drama in which the oddball staff of a musty old London photo archive stares down the cold American businessman who bought their space and wants to throw them out to make way for a business school. “What sleepy people we must appear,” sighs archive director Marilyn Truman (Lindsay Duncan) after hearing the news. But businessman Christopher Anderson (Liam Cunningham) won't get rid of them easily. Bates: Timothy Spall. Veronica: Billie Whitelaw. Spig: Emilia Fox.
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Thora Hird and Pete Postlethwaite star in “Lost for Words,” a tender, fact-based story of an elderly woman's refusal to go gently into that good night following a series of strokes. Based on the autobiography of writer Deric Longden (Postlethwaite's character). Aileen: Penny Downie. Doctor: Tom Higgins. Gloria: Anne Reid. Fred: Keith Clifford. Chemist: Malcolm Hebden.
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Deaths and remarriages dot the conclusion of "Aristocrats." Meanwhile, Emily's son Edward (John Light), back from the American revolution, becomes an Irish revolutionary, much to the consternation of his Aunt Louisa (Diana Quick). As for Sarah (Jodhi May), she finally finds "a good man" (Martin Glyn Murray), and Emily finds contentment with "Mr. Papa" (David Gant). Older Napier: Jeremy Bulloch. Younger Ogilve: George Anton. Older Emily: Sian Phillips. Older Charles James Fox: Trevor May.
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In Part 2 of "Aristocrats," youngest sister Sarah (Jodhi May) is "launched" in London. An early admirer: the Prince of Wales (Luke De Lacy). But then he becomes king and Sarah's love life spirals downward, first to loveless marriage, then to scandal. Meanwhile, Emily engages a tutor (George Anton) for her growing brood. Banbury: Andrew Havill. Duke of Richmond: Tom Beard. Gordon: Gary Cady. Louisa: Anne-Marie Duff. Caroline: Serena Gordon. Emily: Geraldine Somerville. Sian Phillips narrates.
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A three-part adaptation of "Aristocrats," a fact-based chronicle revolving around the four Lennox sisters, great-grand daughters of King Charles II. In Part 1, eldest sister Caroline (Serena Gordon) outrages her father (Julian Fellowes) when she elopes with a freethinker (Alun Armstrong). Second sister Emily (Geraldine Somerville) has a more traditional suitor in Lord Kildare (Ben Daniels). One problem: he's Irish. Duchess of Richmond: Diane Fletcher. Sian Phillips narrates.
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“Goodnight Mister Tom,” a tender tale of an unlikely wartime friendship between a crusty widower (John Thaw) and an abused 9-year-old (Nick Robinson) he befriends. Mrs. Beech: Annabelle Apsion. Dr. Little: John Cater. Zach: Thomas Orange. Mrs. Hartridge: Pauline Turner. Ralph Briggs: Geoffrey Hutchings.
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In the conclusion of “Great Expectations,” Pip (Ioan Gruffudd) is dumped by Estella (Justine Waddell) and learns his benefactor's identity. “It is not a fortunate discovery,” he concedes. Magwich: Bernard Hill. Miss Havisham: Charlotte Rampling. Jaggers: Ian McDiarmid. Herbert Pocket: Daniel Evans.
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Ioan Gruffudd stars in an eerie two-part version of “Great Expectations,” Charles Dickens' tale of a blacksmith's apprentice set up by a mysterious benefactor to be a gentleman. Young Pip Gabriel Thomson. Miss Havisham: Charlotte Rampling. Young Estella: Gemma Gregory. Joe Gargery: Clive Russell.
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A fanciful version of Daphne du Maurier's "Frenchman's Creek" stars Tara Fitzgerald as a feisty 17th-century English noblewoman who falls for a French pirate (Anthony Delon). Sir Harry: James Fleet. Rockingham: Tim Dutton. William: Danny Webb. Godolphin: Rupert Cansittart.
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"Reckless, the Sequel" picks up where the romantic drama left off, with Owen and Anna (Robson Green, Francesca Annis) planning to wed, but Anna's ex determined to stop them. Richard: Michael Kitchen. Arnold: David Bradley. Barbara: Anna Patrick.
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In "Cider with Rosie" (Laurie Lee's memoirs about his boyhood in the English countryside) Lee recalls the efforts of his mother (Juliet Stevenson) to support her nine children after her husband's desertion; and looks back on his romance with teen beauty Rosie. Miss Flynn: Emily Mortimer. Rosie: Lia Barrow.
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As "Bramwell IV" concludes, the Bramwells host a farewell dinner for the Marshams (Kevin McMonagle, Kate Morgan), whose lives are about to be disrupted. Eleanor: Jemma Redgrave. Robert: David Calder. Dr. Osborne: Richard McCabe. Kate: Keeley Gainey.
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In Part 5 of "Bramwell IV," Dr. Robert Bramwell (David Calder) contends with a rival doctor for the attentions of Mrs. Costigan (Maureen Beattie). Eleanor: Jemma Redgrave. Dr. O'Neill: Andrew Connolly. Dr. Savier: Tim Woodward. Kate: Keeley Gainey.
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Part 4 of "Bramwell IV" brings Eleanor (Jemma Redgrave) two badly scalded brewery workers and a surprise visit from Dr. O'Neill. Mrs. Costigan: Maureen Beattie. Mr. Kennedy: Philip Jackson. Jimmy: Richard Claxton. Dr. Robert Bramwell: David Calder.
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In Part 3 of "Bramwell IV," Eleanor (Jemma Redgrave) keeps a secret rendezvous with her "cousin," Dr. Finn O'Neill (Andrew Connolly), at a seaside resort. Dr. Robert Bramwell: David Calder. Dr. Marsham: Kevin McMonagle. Nurse Carr: Ruth Sheen. Sidney: Ben Brazier.
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Part 2 of "Bramwell IV" finds Dr. Eleanor (Jemma Redgrave) ministering to a female accident victim who's revealed to be a cross-dressing male (Hans Matheson). Joe: Kevin McMonagle. Sheldon: Robert Glenister. Sullivan: Robert Pugh. Russell Baker is the host.
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As the six-part "Bramwell IV" begins, Dr. Eleanor Bramwell (Jemma Redgrave) shelters a deformed young woman (Sarah Jane Potts), whose life could be improved by a risky operation. Dr. Robert Bramwell: David Calder. Banks: Ron Cook. Nanny: Eve Pearce.
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As "Our Mutual Friend" concludes, Bella (Anna Friel) leaves the Boffin home to marry Rokesmith; and Headstone violently attacks Wrayburn. Lizzie: Keeley Hawes. Wrayburn: Paul McGann. Rokesmith: Steven Mackintosh. Headstone: David Morrissey.
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In Part 2 of "Our Mutual Friend," Bella tells Rokesmith (Steven Mackintosh) she doesn't love him, while Lizzie (Keeley Hawes) rejects Headstone. Bella: Anna Friel. Headstone: David Morrissey. Wrayburn: Paul McGann. Boffin: Peter Vaughan.
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"Our Mutual Friend," a three-part adaptation of Charles Dickens' novel. In Part 1, a clerk (Peter Vaughan) inherits a fortune after his deceased employer's heir is found dead. Rokesmith: Steven Mackintosh. Bella: Anna Friel. Lizzie: Keeley Hawes. Wrayburn: Paul McGann.
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In "The Prince of Hearts," a royal and his bodyguard (Rupert Penry-Jones, Robson Green) form a grudging bond as the prince attends Cambridge. Grace: Tara Fitzgerald. Sandy: Terence Budd. Adams: Christopher Staines. Serena: Danielle Tilley.
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As "The Unknown Soldier" concludes, Sophia (Juliet Aubrey) fights to prove Angel's innocence. Meanwhile, Sophia forms an alliance with Angel's fiancée (Aislin McGuckin). Sir Francis: Frederick Treves. Stephen: Pip Torrens. Maggie: Sophie Stanton.
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Part 1 of "The Unknown Soldier," a two-part drama set during World War I. In the opener, nurse Sophia Carey (Juliet Aubrey) tends to an amnesiac soldier (Gary Mavers), and falls in love with him. Stephen: Pip Torrens. Sir Francis Carey: Frederick Treves.
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As "A Respectable Trade" concludes, increasing tensions in the household widen the gap between Frances and Josiah (Emma Fielding, Warren Clarke), driving her into the arms of Mehuru (Ariyon Bakare). Sarah: Anna Massey. Bates: Grahame Fox. Elizabeth: Jenny Jules.
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“A Respectable Trade,” a two-part adaptation of Philippa Gregory's novel concerning interracial love in 18th-century England. Frances: Emma Fielding. Josiah: Warren Clarke. Mehuru: Ariyon Bakare. Sarah: Anna Massey. Bates: Grahame Fox. Elizabeth: Jenny Jules.
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King Lear
Season 28, Episode 1
The 28th season begins with Richard Eyre's adaptation of the Shakespeare tragedy “King Lear.” Ian Holm stars as the aged king who falls into madness. Cordelia: Victoria Hamilton. Goneril: Barbara Flynn. Regan: Amanda Redman. Edmund: Finbar Lynch. Gloucester: Timothy West.
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As "Far from the Madding Crowd" concludes, Bathsheba (Paloma Baeza) marries Sgt. Troy (Jonathan Firth), who shows his true colors soon after the wedding. Gabriel: Nathaniel Parker. Mr. Boldwood: Nigel Terry. Fanny: Natasha Little. Liddy: Tracy Keating.
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“Far from the Madding Crowd,” a two-part adaptation of Thomas Hardy's novel. In Part 1, a farmer (Nathaniel Parker) must work for a strong-willed woman to whom he once proposed. Mr. Boldwood: Nigel Terry. Sgt. Troy: Jonathan Firth. Fanny: Natasha Little.
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As "Painted Lady" concludes, Maggie (Helen Mirren) courts danger and romance with a New York art dealer (Franco Nero) as she tracks the stolen painting. Sebastian: Iain Glen. Oliver: Michael Maloney. Susie: Lesley Manville. Fagan: Barry Barnes.
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Part 1 of "Painted Lady." Helen Mirren plays a former singer who's now living on the Irish estate of an elderly art collector. His murder moves her to find the culprit and the painting that was stolen. Sebastian: Iain Glen. Oliver: Michael Maloney. Susie: Lesley Manville. Tassi: Franco Nero.
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"The Woman in White" is an adaptation of Wilkie Collins' gothic thriller about a young woman (Tara Fitzgerald) with deep misgivings about her sister's marriage to a wealthy aristocrat. Laura: Justine Waddell. Hartright: Andrew Lincoln. Sir Percival: James Wilby. Count Fosco: Simon Callow.
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As "The Wingless Bird" concludes, Agnes (Claire Skinner) helps Charles (Edward Atterton) fight pneumonia, while Reg (Julian Wadham) reports that WWI is a massacre. Mrs. Conway: Anne Reid. Robbie: Daniel Casey. Aunt Nessy: Moira Redmond.
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In Part 2 of "The Wingless Bird," class barriers reach a shocking turn for the Conways, and threaten to destroy the marriage plans of Agnes (Claire Skinner) and Charles (Edward Atterton). Reg: Julian Wadham. Jessie: Michelle Charles. Mrs. Conway: Anne Reid. Robbie: Daniel Casey.
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"The Wingless Bird," a three-part drama of class differences in WWI England. In Part 1, a shopkeeper (Claire Skinner) is preoccupied by a well-born suitor (Edward Atterton), as well as her sister's clandestine love affair. Reginald: Julian Wadham. Mr. Conway: Frank Grimes.
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Reckless
Season 27, Episode 12
In Part 2 of "Reckless," Anna (Francesca Annis) throws Richard out and begins a relationship with Owen (Robson Green). Richard: Michael Kitchen. Arnold: David Bradley. John: Conor Mullen. Vivien: Daniela Nardini. Danny: Julian Rhind-Tutt.
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Reckless
Season 27, Episode 13
In the conclusion of "Reckless," Anna (Francesca Annis) learns of Owen's role in Richard's confession of the affair. Meanwhile, Vivien has a surprise for Richard (Michael Kitchen). Owen: Robson Green. Arnold: David Bradley.
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Reckless
Season 27, Episode 11
A May-December love triangle is the focus of "Reckless," a three-part drama. In Part 1, physician Owen Springer (Robson Green) falls for a married older woman (Francesca Annis). Richard Crane: Michael Kitchen. Arnold Springer: David Bradley.
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Rhodes
Season 27, Episode 10
Conclusion: Rhodes (Martin Shaw) shows the Africans he means business---with machine guns. Meanwhile, the discovery of gold in Johannesburg sparks the Boer War. Jameson: Neil Pearson. Beit: Frantz Dobrowsky. Princess Radziwill: Frances Barber. Kruger: Carel Trichardt.
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Rhodes
Season 27, Episode 9
"Rhodes." Part 2: His business affairs in order, Rhodes (Martin Shaw) sets out to pursue his imperial ambitions---but there's a "savage king" (Washington Sixolo) in his way. Barnato: Ken Stott. Jameson: Neil Pearson. Thompson: Sean Taylor. Curry: Gresby Nash.
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Rhodes
Season 27, Episode 8
A three-part biography of 19th-century colonialist Cecil Rhodes begins with. the 17-year-old Rhodes (Joe Shaw) arriving in Africa and soon cornering the diamond market. Adult Rhodes: Martin Shaw. Princess Radziwill: Frances Barber.
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In the conclusion of "Bramwell III," an old friend (John Castle) of Eleanor's father returns to London and wants to give six children a new start in North America. Eleanor: Jemma Redgrave. Robert: David Calder. Kathleen: Kelly Reilly. Sidney: Ben Brazier.
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"Bramwell III." In Part 3, Eleanor (Jemma Redgrave) faces cholera at her infirmary; and her father is wary about a compound that Dr. O'Neill has developed to combat the disease. Robert: David Calder. Dr. O'Neill: Andrew Connolly. Marsham: Kevin McMonagle.
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Family secrets surface when the elder Dr. Bramwell's sister (Cheryl Campbell) turns up after 20 years in India. Eleanor: Jemma Redgrave. Robert: David Calder. Martin: Andrew Lincoln. Sir William: Richard Pasco. Marsham: Kevin McMonagle. Nurse Carr: Ruth Sheen.
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As the four-part "Bramwell III" begins, Dr. Eleanor Bramwell (Jemma Redgrave) contends for a hospital position, while caring for a pregnant, underage prostitute (Matilda Brooke) Dr. O'Neill: Andrew Connolly. Dr. Robert Bramwell: David Calder. Dr. James: Richard Kane.
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"The Moonstone," an adaptation of the 1868 novel by Wilkie Collins. Franklin Blake (Greg Wise) delivers to his cousin Rachel a diamond she's inherited, but the gem disappears soon after she receives it. Rachel: Keeley Hawes. Lady Verinder: Patricia Hodge. Sgt. Cuff: Antony Sher. Betteredge: Peter Vaughan.
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“The Tenant of Wildfell Hall” is based on Anne Bronte's 1848 novel about a young woman (Tara Fitzgerald) with a troubled past, who's befriended by a gentleman farmer (Toby Stephens) in mid-19th-century Yorkshire. Arthur: Rupert Graves. Annabella: Beatie Edney. Helen's Aunt: Linda Marlowe. Young Arthur: Jackson Leach.
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“The Mill on the Floss” is an adaptation of George Eliot's novel about a woman (Emily Watson) torn between passion and duty. Tom: Ifan Meredith. Philip: James Frain. Mr. Tulliver: Bernard Hill. Lucy: Lucy Whybrow.
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Rebecca
Season 26, Episode 17
As "Rebecca" concludes, Mrs. de Winter's efforts to make her marriage work continue to be undermined by Mrs. Danvers (Diana Rigg). Mrs. de Winter: Emilia Fox. Maxim: Charles Dance. Beatrice: Geraldine James. Favell: Jonathan Cake.
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Rebecca
Season 26, Episode 16