I Was Just Passing

I really loved this episode. I love shows, like this one, that are based on books...about real-life people. I think it's off to a grand start! I really think that Sally Wainwright has a definite winner of a show here! They've really pulled together a wonderful ensemble cast of great actresses and actors, for Gentleman Jack. I love it when characters "break the 4th wall"! Already can't wait for the 2nd series of the show to come out!

Someone else wrote a review saying that there was nothing likeable about the title character. I don't understand that at all....she is shown in the first episode to be compassionate and kind. Yes, she has a streak of hardness but that doesn't mean she isn't likeable! I loved the episode, the writing, the acting and the soundtrack....can't wait for tonight's episode!

Sally Wainwright now has her own repertory of excellent actors surrounding a great actress Surrane Jones. HBO has a winner in this series.

There was a swagger and drive in the first episode that reflects the character of Anne Lister. This 19th century woman was an enterprising landowner in the Yorkshire village of Shibden thanks to being left everything by her uncle.

Lister was also a lesbian who has returned home after a failed relationship. Her lover has decided to marry a man. Lister does not want to remain hidden.

She arrives in Shibden after taking the reins of a carriage when the coachman is injured.

Pretty soon Gentleman Jack as she is known to the locals is collecting the rent, turfing out tenants who are behind on the rent and plans to mine for coal which she realises is valuable.

Suranne Jones gives a strident and confident performance in a busy first episode.

I greatly enjoyed the book The Diaries of Anne Lister and was afraid that a filmed version would ruin it for me. But no! The first episode, at least, really brightened the bad mood I was in before I started watching. The actor playing Anne is excellent! I will watch the whole series now....