The series was widely criticized for its modifications, sometimes radical, of the original plots, and it's true : sometimes only a title remains of an actual book. However, there are some very good episodes made for the series and it would be a shame to pass on them. There are also, unfortunately, some very bad episodes.
Geraldine Mc Ewan is a very good miss Marple, warm and kind and in fact an old lady that people would actually confide in (a characteristic often omitted when casting the role). Her performance produces the desired effect - the slightly surreal shock and incredulity.
Julia Mc Kenzie who follows is more shrewd, more precise, and while it makes her a more believable detective, it departs from who miss Marple is supposed to be. But her acting is certainly of quality.
Among the episodes that are certainly worth watching, these stand out by their great quality:
A Body in the Library - perfect performances all around and delightful scenery, everyone fitting their part wonderfully. This episode was criticized for changing the solution in a rather bold way, but it is, arguably, a solution that makes even more sense.*
Of the two Jeffersons (one of whom must be implicated) Adelaide is a much more likely murderer, because she is in a far worse situation. Mark is a man, and would find no difficulty getting a cushy job if he's related to the influential Mr Jefferson. But Adelaide has no such possibility, and she must provide for her son, too. She can only remarry again - but if she falls in love with Josie, that's no longer an option and makes her even more desperate for money.
The Moving Finger - again, very strong performances and great photography, perfectly captured atmosphere of a quiet village with danger lurking below, and a lovely dynamic between Jerry and Joanna that really makes them feel like siblings.
A Murder is Announced - some slight changes that mostly omit unnecessary characters, and great acting, especially by Zoe Wanamaker and Francis Barber make this a good, solid production.
Unfortunately, there are episodes that are truly painful to watch, like Towards Zero,Bertram's Hotel and Murder is Easy. All in all, I advise a selective approach to this series for maximum enjoyment.
ITV's Marple
The series was widely criticized for its modifications, sometimes radical, of the original plots, and it's true : sometimes only a title remains of an actual book. However, there are some very good episodes made for the series and it would be a shame to pass on them. There are also, unfortunately, some very bad episodes.
Geraldine Mc Ewan is a very good miss Marple, warm and kind and in fact an old lady that people would actually confide in (a characteristic often omitted when casting the role). Her performance produces the desired effect - the slightly surreal shock and incredulity. Julia Mc Kenzie who follows is more shrewd, more precise, and while it makes her a more believable detective, it departs from who miss Marple is supposed to be. But her acting is certainly of quality.
Among the episodes that are certainly worth watching, these stand out by their great quality:
A Body in the Library - perfect performances all around and delightful scenery, everyone fitting their part wonderfully. This episode was criticized for changing the solution in a rather bold way, but it is, arguably, a solution that makes even more sense.*
The Moving Finger - again, very strong performances and great photography, perfectly captured atmosphere of a quiet village with danger lurking below, and a lovely dynamic between Jerry and Joanna that really makes them feel like siblings.
A Murder is Announced - some slight changes that mostly omit unnecessary characters, and great acting, especially by Zoe Wanamaker and Francis Barber make this a good, solid production.
Unfortunately, there are episodes that are truly painful to watch, like Towards Zero, Bertram's Hotel and Murder is Easy. All in all, I advise a selective approach to this series for maximum enjoyment.