DVD Review: All Creatures Great and Small (2020)

All Creatures Great and Small (2020)

based on the books by James Herriot (DVD All)

 

I have been a fan of James Herriot’s “All Creatures Great and Small” for many years, beginning with the 1975 movie version with Simon Ward as the young James Herriot. Although many people will argue that nothing can replace the 1978 series by the same name, I would argue that this new British production is exceptional in many ways. The casting for this series is spot-on. I just finished reading the book and I believe that the writing and the casting for the new series are both superb. Samuel West portrays Siegfried Farnum with flair and wit; Nicholas Ralph does a wonderful job as James Herriot, especially when exasperated by Siegfried and his brother Tristan. My favorite character, however, is undoubtedly Mrs. Pumphrey, the eccentric widow played with panache by the late Diana Rigg. Harry Potter fans will want to take note of Matthew Lewis’ role as Hugh Hulton, Herriot’s rival for the affections of Helen. Matthew is the actor who portrayed Neville Longbottom in the Harry Potter series. I can hardly wait for season two of this remarkable new series!

[If you enjoy this, you may also wish to try Herriot’s original autobiographical books, the original 1978-1990 TV series or the 1975 feature film starring Simon Ward and Anthony Hopkins] [Also available in traditional print format.]

[ Internet Movie Database entry for this series ] | [ official All Creatures Great and Small (2020) web site ]

 

Recommended by Kim J.
Bennett Martin Public Library — Public Service

 

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