Decline and Fall

Absolutely brilliant adaptation of Evelyn Waugh's biting satire of British personalities. Douglas Hodge's performance is a comedic tour de force!! Jack Whitehall is perfectly cast, as are all of the other "character" actors. The only misstep was in casting Eva Longoria...her performance is rather grating. I say, it's a " must watch" for those who are fans of British comedy!

A must-see for any fans of Jack Whitehall, Eva Longoria, and Stephen Graham. My only complaint is it's only three episodes!

Mr Paul Pennyfather is an educated and accomplished fellow who starts off his career at Oxford but doesn't last long due to the students' bullying and a rigid structure which he struggles to adapt to.

He realises he is not ready for Oxford and gets transferred to a private school on request. There he falls in love with one of the pupil's parents and his life really changes.

It's got a lot of sharp twists and good old-fashioned narrative drama with some superb acting especially the brilliant Stephen Graham as Philbrick; Douglas Hodge as Grimes; David Suchet as Dr. Fagan and Eva Logoria playing the love interest who is Margot Beste-Chetwynde!

The drama has a lot of twists and turns and our Paul really does end up in so many different spots of bother! It's hard to review without giving the story away as so much of it is based on narrative but it is a great show and a thoroughly enjoyable although not too realistic period piece!

A strong 7/10.

As a lifelong enthusiast for the writing of Evelyn Waugh, I thought I would never again see a revival of interest in his work. I am glad to say that this adaptation - on the evidence of Episode 1 - ensures that I couldn't have been more wrong, as it will undoubtedly attract a whole new audience. There is sheer quality in every aspect of this production and I found myself laughing out loud throughout. Everything is perfect - casting, script, characterisation, editing; it doesn't put a foot wrong. It seems unfair to single out any one contribution, but Douglas Hodge has so much fun with the character of the deeply dubious unidexter Captain Grimes, you cannot help but be impressed while you giggle. I can't wait to watch the remaining episodes, but simply wish to congratulate the whole team on this first showing. Bravo! On viewing the second episode, there is nothing to add other than that the very high standard has been maintained - a relief and an uproarious pleasure.

This must have been one of the last performances of TPS. Surprised this was not acknowledged in the credits. A great loss of a great actor. First came to my attention in the wonderful adaptation of Paul Scott's "Jewel in the Crown" novels. Admired for many roles since. I had tickets to see him in Northampton this April which sadly had to be returned. Condolences to friends and family.