The Way We Live Now
Anthony Trollope’s epic tale of Victorian power and corruption, set in the 1870s. Within weeks of his arrival in London, financier Augustus Melmotte announces a railway is to be built from Salt Lake City to the Gulf of Mexico and entices distinguished members of England's land-rich, cash-poor aristocracy into his web. Many are eager to sell their ailing land parcels to afford moving to London proper and naïve speculators are all lured in with promises of an instant fortune.
Insights
Plot Summary
Set in the late Victorian era, this miniseries follows the machinations of financier Augustus Melmotte, a charismatic but unscrupulous man who arrives in London with immense wealth and ambitions. His arrival disrupts the established social order as he seeks to gain entry into high society and secure a seat in Parliament, leading to a web of intrigue, financial speculation, and personal ruin for those caught in his orbit.
Critical Reception
The 2001 BBC adaptation of Anthony Trollope's novel 'The Way We Live Now' was widely praised for its faithful yet accessible depiction of Victorian society and its complex characters. David Suchet's performance as Augustus Melmotte was particularly lauded, with critics noting the production's lush visuals and sharp commentary on greed and social climbing.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its faithful adaptation of Trollope's intricate social commentary.
- David Suchet's portrayal of the manipulative Augustus Melmotte was a standout performance.
- The miniseries effectively captured the opulence and moral decay of Victorian England.
Google audience: Audience reception information for this specific miniseries is not readily available through general Google user reviews.
Fun Fact
The production meticulously recreated the opulence and social intricacies of the late Victorian era, using elaborate sets and costumes to immerse viewers in the period.
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