I haven't read the book so can't comment on whether it's a faithful adaptation or not, but I found this to be a captivating series. Strangely, I don't believe this was well publicised in the UK which is odd considering the fantastic cast. The acting, cinematography and costumes were all superb and, whilst the subject matter was not easy at times, there was something comforting about the pace and ambience - a trait lacking in many modern dramas.
It's not perfect - the portrayal of Ursula at 10 felt much older and it did feel like it ran out of ideas towards the end, especially as it appeared nothing was really wrapped up. However, you could argue that was the point - with Ursula destined to be reborn again and again and not necessarily improving her position in each lifetime. Whilst this might sound depressing, I did believe she came to understand this herself and instinctively realised she couldn't really control her (nor anyone else's) ultimate fate. As a result, she developed a kind of inner peace. Whether that fits logically with the whole concept of non-linear time I'll leave others to decide.
Even if you feel the ending is inconclusive, the series does provide some good insight into the attitude towards women during the first half of the 20th century and the interactions of family life in general.
I judge a drama based on whether it gets you thinking afterwards, and this one definitely stuck in my mind.
It's not perfect - the portrayal of Ursula at 10 felt much older and it did feel like it ran out of ideas towards the end, especially as it appeared nothing was really wrapped up. However, you could argue that was the point - with Ursula destined to be reborn again and again and not necessarily improving her position in each lifetime. Whilst this might sound depressing, I did believe she came to understand this herself and instinctively realised she couldn't really control her (nor anyone else's) ultimate fate. As a result, she developed a kind of inner peace. Whether that fits logically with the whole concept of non-linear time I'll leave others to decide.
Even if you feel the ending is inconclusive, the series does provide some good insight into the attitude towards women during the first half of the 20th century and the interactions of family life in general.
I judge a drama based on whether it gets you thinking afterwards, and this one definitely stuck in my mind.