Patrick Melrose

Patrick Melrose was a Showtime miniseries based on a fictional chapter played by Benedict Cumberbatch. Patrick was the son an of an aristocratic family that was ignored and abused as a child. His father, played by Hugo Weaving, deeply traumatized the poor kid in their South of France summer house which caused him to use alcohol and substance drugs during his 20's to take away to take away his pain. As I watched this, it was painful to see how he was raised and ignored by his drunk mother played by Jennifer Jason Leigh. It's a great sad show that also stars Blythe Danner who did not care for children nor having any in her house. This was nominated for best miniseries and best outstanding lead actor in a limited series because it was that good. I would highly recommend this five episode series.

I finished the novels only a few weeks before watching the first episode and my rating thus far is only based on the first episode. The genius of the novels is turning such ugliness into something beautiful. The bookend decision to start the first episode with the second novel was a smart one from the overall story standpoint as well as thematically. However, the downside, is that the second novel/ first Espinosa is probably the toughest watch/ read as it is Patrick at his worst. Having said that, in a mannner true to the source material, the show creators have managed to take license where necessary in order to stay true to the character as well as the themes. The "plot" is not relevant. It's takes a long term view to realize that. If you had to pick the worst day of your life and watch it, that would not be pleasant either. But the genius of the source material as well as the first episode is that we can relate to Patrick- warts-and-all. Self loathing is relatable to manner, no matter how extreme. This is the first chapter in the story of a man deciding to stop reacting to life and start responding. If you can see past the "ugly" you will find the beauty. Much like in life. I look forward to seeing the upcoming episodes and watching the brilliant Benedict Cumberbatch play the role that I can no longer see anyone else in.

I can't remember the last time I saw a series this good. It is brilliantly made. Amazing acting. I was on the edge of my seat most of the time. Cumberbatch gives an outstanding performance.

I've never read the books prior to seeing this piece of work. The idea of a person from such a well off background suffering seems almost alien, almost contemptible. Who, as someone so fortunate can make themselves feel so small when those who have so little can be happy. It is this very dilemma which made me want to dislike the show. And yet, I found this episode, and hopefully the rest extremely touching. If you've ever had trouble with drugs or self-loathing you cannot help but feel the humanity and truth in the work. This work transcends class, the part where Melrose looks content after shooting up, staring aimlessly into the world is so understandable and relatable you can't help but feel compassion and emotion. If you've ever been high or on drugs and looked out to the world while sitting in your bed while content, you'll understand what it is like to be Melrose, that feeling is forever it seems. Yet, when you wake up, the fleeting happiness you felt dispels and you feel the sad self loathing of existence;the tomorrow.

Cumberbatch performs incredibly in capturing the second-guessing inner monologue of someone overwhelmed with emotions. His charisma and ability to act vividly using facial ques and ticks makes this work what it is, yes, the writing is fantastic, but the life Cumberbatch brings to those words is what makes it unique.

There were some strong performances - Patrick, his parents and his father's cohort were all played well. It is also a stylish series with good cinematography.

It was sometimes hard to grasp the time-line, especially in the later episodes - even though a date was put up now and then.

it kept me interested throughout, although I enjoyed the New York scenes the most.