Something Strangely Magical: Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell

Now Streaming on Amazon, originally aired on BBC America in the U.S. and BBC in the UK

This week on the Podcast we reviewed Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell, the 7 Part BBC Fantasy Series based on the book by Susanna Clarke. It's currently streaming for purchase on Amazon Instant Video.

Set in England during the Napoleanic era, it is the story of two magicians; Mr Norrell, who believes in the purity of English magic and has been a learned scholar of the craft, and Mr. Strange, with no education but inherant talent, performs spectacular feats of magic helping England to defeat Napolean. Norrell (Eddie Marsan), is at first intrigued by Strange (Bertie Carvel) and decides to take him under his wing, not ackowledging that in fact his student is more powerful than he. Strange quickly realizes they are on different paths, and the two go through a bumpy relationship journey as odd and complex as the story itself. Ultimately they find comfort and strength in each other's differences joining forces to fight their mutual foe, The Gentleman (Marc Warren) a dark Fairy conjured by Norrell.

Not for light watching, it takes about three episodes and a lot of concentration to fully appreciate all the layers and brilliance of the script. Transforming this intricate book into a visual medium was in fact magic in it's own right. The acting performances are some of the finest ever. Buckle your seat belt, it's a wild but worthwhile ride.

Listen to the Review Starting at 35:11 on Ep 238: I'm Grambit Dammit