Return to Cranford [Blu-ray] [Region Free]

Cranford a most brilliant series and a must watch always.

"Cranford" is a simply wonderful story, and so, as it captured the imagination, "Return To Cranford" is the final icing on the cake with its own dramas, its simple brilliance and its superb acting. A few of the newest additions to the fantastic cast are the clown of the town Peter Jenkyns, who was played by Martin Shaw in the last episode of the first series, now replaced by Nicolas Le Prevost. Also we have Jonathan Pryce from "Evita" as Mr. Buxton, Tom Hiddleston as his son William and Michelle Dockery (who would later go on to star in "Downton Abbey") as Erminia White. Jodie Whittaker plays Peggy Bell, who is constantly required to live in the shadows of her mother, played by Lesley Sharp and of her brother, played by Matthew Mcnulty. This episodic Christmas Special opens differently in comparison to the first series, as there is no picture of fields and houses with smoke issuing out of chimneys at the very beginning, but the same music plays throughout, which is so tuneful, lively and easy to remember. Dame Judi Dench still gives a brilliant performance as Miss Matty Jenkyns, one of the first characters to appear on the big screen, busily making sure that there isn't anyone underneath her bed. Martha is as happy as can be lodging in Miss Matty's house, as she has nowhere else to go, and anyway she insisted on lodging in the first place. Jem Hearne, who married Martha after she talked him into it in the first series remains a hard working carpenter, and also one of those few people who want the railway as he needs more than carpentry in order to expand his horizons. Lady Ludlow, whose health is failing, and Harry Gregson, encouraged and guided by the kind and compassionate Miss Galindo in his preparations for school both feel the railway's dominance, and how it will change the countryside. In addition to the new characters, along comes Septimus, (Rory Kinnear) accompanied by a young Italian man, Giacomo who has possibly been ill throughout the time Septimus spent in Italy, and may be the reason why Septimus moved from place to place, at which I wouldn't be surprised, although I am unfamiliar with Mrs Gaskell's celebrated works and therefore I do not wish to speak for her. A grown up with the airs and graces of a spoilt brat and uninterested attitude towards the wishes of his mother and of Mr Carter for Harry, he is every inch an ungentleman, and of great disappointment to a number of people. Out of the Bell family, it is Peggy Bell who is by far the most likeable; she is a bright young thing, she does her best to spend time away from her spiteful mother and her rude brother and she is also modest, humble and sweet. Celia Imrie is cast as Scotswoman Lady Glenmire, and her Scottish accent is actually not too bad. I have to say I am unfamiliar with the number of different tartans worn by big families in Scotland, so Captain Brown's acknowledgement of the tartan worn by Lady Glenmire is most welcome; it is a Campbell tartan. Miss Pole is, if possible even funnier, and therefore one of the most insanely memorable characters to whom I can only say, "Outstanding!" and is a constant admirer of Peter Jenkyns, who is not only an avid collector of Indian goods but also a bit of a flirt, and a very good one at that! With her equally funny gossip gal pal Mrs Forrester, Miss Matty, Miss Augusta Tompkinson and Miss Mary, joined by Lady Glenmire and her snobby, yet redeemable relative Mrs. Jamieson, these women take the fate of Cranford on their shoulders and display the true spirit of '"female fortitude"'. A feast for the eyes, "Return To Cranford" is a wonderful comeback to the beloved series.

The first Cranford is a favorite in our home: it has well drawn characters in deep and subtle situations that are fraught with emotion, with historical change, with personal development and hope. It is one of the most beautiful mini-series I have ever seen, yet never gets precious or maudlin. SO it was only a matter of time before we got this one.On the one hand, there are many strengths to this production. The characters develop, some in very surprising yet believable ways, including tragedies, changes in plans, and love. This is very fun and makes it more than a simple follow-on. The period atmosphere is also elegant and plush, vividly and accurately evoking a period in history - my kids had many questions about it. On the other hand, the story feels rushed. Not only is there too much going on too fast, but the viewer lacks the time to integrate it all. That translates into a kind of overload and a complete lack of the meditative, almost poetic pauses and asides that makes the first production so much fun.As far as the plot goes, the train remains a controversial issue, with many complications and the need for continuing negotiations with owners and changes of attitude. (This was one reason why train networks spread in the US much more swiftly.) The son of the reigning aristocrat also returns, though after some machinations he is wisked away all too quickly. The wonderful boy who is charged with getting an education in order to create a school for the town also faces a significant crisis. Nonetheless, while most of the principal characters are there, the doctor no longer serves the town. His loss is partially made up with a group of very good new characters, but again, it feels rushed.

Cast, production and location excellent as in the first series, so I’d like to give it 5 starsBut if you use hearing issues it’s a big problem. My hearing isn’t bad but as I wear two aids. But if Im hearing 40% of this film that’s as much as I can manage.Seller needs to make clear this download comes without subtitles

I loved the old worldly charm where no one does anything and yet the village thrives.

CRANFORD Was a delight to watch..we recommended to our friends in America...they bought the series.Highly recommended.My husband and I love to watch Period Drama, they bring a spark of joy and ' clean' entertainment especially in these difficult and challenging times.

Finally got watch this on DVD a few weeks ago... I'm still shocked. So good, so fine actors, so' true in the stories and so magical in the ambience. It made me laugh and cry. And for a short period of time (the film's duration) I WAS actually there, with the ladies and the gentlemen, enjoying the luck of being alive.I have to say I've not read any Mrs. Gaskell books with the exception of North and South. Therefore I'm not familiar with her descriptions about the characters represented here. Still I don't think it cares if I've read the books or not. The characters are well defined and even if you haven't watched the first series I think you can follow the story. The absence of some characters and little references to the past help you with that. In fact, it's been long ago that I watched the first series but I never felt lost watching this second part.It also helps the fact that Return to Cranford is not talking about the same things. The story goes deeper into the past of some people and introduces other characters so you have old a new excitements to enjoy.Totally recommended!

Without a doubt, the Cranford: Return to Cranford series makes for a very enjoyable sunday afternoon viewing. A great cast, outstanding script, superb performances, and an absolute joy to watch.Well done to all involved!