Mr Selfridge
Mr. Selfridge recounts the real life story of the flamboyant and visionary American founder of Selfridge's, London's lavish department store. Set in 1909 London, when women were reveling in a new sense of freedom and modernity, it follows Harry Gordon Selfridge ('Mile a Minute Harry'), a man with a mission to make shopping as thrilling as sex. Pioneering and reckless, with an almost manic energy, Harry created a theater of retail where any topic or trend that was new, exciting, entertaining - or just eccentric - was showcased.
Insights
Plot Summary
The series chronicles the life of American entrepreneur Harry Gordon Selfridge and his ambitious London department store, Selfridges. It details the store's opening in 1909 and follows Harry's innovative business strategies and his complex personal life. The drama explores the triumphs and challenges faced by Selfridge and his staff as they navigate the social and economic changes of the early 20th century.
Critical Reception
Mr Selfridge received generally positive reviews, particularly for its lavish production values, strong performances (especially Jeremy Piven as the titular character), and engaging portrayal of Edwardian London. Critics often praised its escapist qualities and detailed depiction of retail history, though some found the later seasons to be less compelling than the initial ones.
What Reviewers Say
- Lavish and visually appealing period drama.
- Jeremy Piven delivers a charismatic performance as the ambitious Harry Selfridge.
- Engaging depiction of early 20th-century London and the burgeoning department store industry.
Google audience: Viewers praised the show for its beautiful costumes and sets, its compelling characters, and the fascinating insight into the history of retail. Many enjoyed the drama and the strong acting, finding it to be entertaining and well-produced.
Fun Fact
The series was filmed in various locations around London, including Chertsey, Surrey, and on sets built at The Bottle Yard Studios in Bristol.
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