All Creatures Great and Small (2020– ) User Reviews

I love this show

[craig-snell-151-149427 · 9/10 · 20 January 2021]

I honestly didn't want to watch this, although my wife persuaded me to sit down and watch, and by jiminy do I love it. It reminds me weirdly of death in paradise, they are in no way alike, but after watching both shows you realise that you are just that little bit happier than you were an hour ago. It's just good old fashioned feel good programming.

WELL DONE CHANNEL FIVE, you have made me quite a happy chap

Turned down by the BBC, big mistake.

[Impman2 · 10/10 · 2 October 2020]

The BBC apparently turned down the opportunity of making this programme/series as it did not tick the correct boxes for their target audience. What a big mistake. Yes it is a remake and that is always risky but so far it's been like a breath of fresh air. There's no politics, no social agenda, it's just pure family entertainment set in a beautiful part of England.

I wasn't expecting that.

[Sleepin_Dragon · 9/10 · 11 September 2020]

I think it's fair to say that some, myself included wrote this off before it had even aired, Channel five hasn't really been known for original drama. I was definitely wrong, it's a great watch.

Channel Five has a real winner with his show, it is truly the tonic we need for 2020, it's uplifting, sentimental, it has a real feel good factor.

A winner in all areas, great stories, terrific acting, and a warmth that has been lacking in shows for some time.

How lovely to see Diana Rigg appear, ahead of her tragic death.

Bang on the money, 9/10.

I love this so much

[lindalysaght · 21 January 2021]

Totally recommended. Sweet story, great characters. Couldn't love it more. Now who knows how long I'll have to wait for the next season!

A breath of fresh air...

[LiveLoveLead · 9/10 · 28 February 2021]

This wholesome PBS series is a touching and funny adaption based on the 1970s book series of a young veterinarian in 1930s Yorkshire England. The show centers around the naïve, eager James Herriot, who, fresh out of vet college, is hired by the eccentric, curmudgeon, and local vet, Siegfried Farnon. We follow James on his vet adventures meeting the tight-knit townsfolk and their beloved animals, as well as Siegfried's mischievous but charming brother, Tristan, and the motherly housekeeper Mrs. Hall. (Harry Potter fans will enjoy seeing "Neville Longbottom" as the pretentious Hugh Hulton.) The acting, script, and cinematography are wonderful and the scenery is beautiful. This warm, endearing series can be enjoyed by the whole family.

Loved it!

[mighty-maddox · 9/10 · 7 October 2020]

This is such a sweet and comfy thing to watch. Enjoyed it from the very first episode. Well-written, nice acting, and beautiful scenery. I wouldn't say that this is a remake of the BBC series. Rather, it's a new take on the books by James Herriot. And while the BBC series may be more faithful to the books, this series is basically what it says on the tin: "based on". They take plots from Herriot's stories and adapt them for the episodes, often making them more dramatic than it was originally in the books, but the gentle, humorous spirit is there. Looking forward to season 2!

Feelgood factor in period Yorkshire Dales setting.

[dobbinman · 9/10 · 2 September 2020]

People like me of a certain age grew up with the wildly popular books and TV series in the 70's so there are some who will never accept a re-filming of this tale of a vet in post WW1 North Yorkshire. I happen to live near there and know people who actually knew Alf Wight who wrote the books in which he renamed himself 'James Herriot'. Channel 5 who made this already produce 'The Yorkshire Vet' reality show which features the same vets practice still working today along with 'The Yorkshire Steam Railway: All Aboard' which features our local preserved steam railway (The North Yorkshire Moors Railway). As such Channel 5 already have a 'track record' (groans) of filming up here and this series has been on the cards for a while. The only question was 'Would this be up to the standard of the original?'. One episode in and I'd have to give it a resounding 'Yes!'. Don't expect complex plots or action chases in this unless you include angry 1 ton+ bulls or roller-coaster local roads traversed in 1930's cars with dodgy brakes. Just instead enjoy the Yorkshire scenery pretty much unchanged since the time it is set populated with little 'feel-good' stories of veterinary life among the very wily Yorkshire folk. It really still is pretty much like this today and the people haven't changed much either...

Nicholas Ralph is the perfect James Herriot

[helenbear-43554 · 10/10 · 19 September 2020]

For those complaining that it isn't like the original TV adaptation, I'll remind them that this is an adaptation of James Herriot's books, not a remake of a TV show. If you have an open mind and a sense of humour, this show won't disappoint. A special mention to Nicholas Ralph who plays the role of James with such warmth and kindness. Arguably, Ralph plays the role better than Timothy did who always seemed rather English middle class to me, rather than Scottish working class.

Superb...

[timothy-price-794-581328 · 10/10 · 19 September 2021]

Absolutely love this programme. Captures that hard but simpler time, so beautifully written by 'James Herriot' in his lovely books, just perfectly. Really loved the original series (Christopher Timothy et al.) too, and didn't think they could match that, but by gum, they've actually improved on the original. Truly excellent. Kudos to all involved....

All Creatures Great and Small(2020-)

[robfollower · 9/10 · 11 January 2021]

I have no knowledge of the source material as I never read the books nor watch any the original series or films. So this is a fresh viewing experience for me. And I really did not know what to expect.

All creatures great and small is about as small town vet in the Yorkshire Dales based on a series of books by James Herriot. The opener of the Masterpiece on PBS is truly charming truly heartwarming. Everything you want a British masterpiece PBS show to be, with fabulous characters , endearing animals, wit and humor. Fabulous cinematography of the Yorkshire Countryside that I found to be spectacular.

This is quality fellow feeling television, coming right when I could really use it. I'm very much looking forward to see where this masterpiece on PBS series takes me emotionally. This is great television . Happy 50th Anniversary Masterpiece Theatre on PBS .

An enjoyable jaunt back to my youth.

[andyzot · 7/10 · 1 September 2020]

I used to enjoy our Sunday afternoons as a kid, cream teas and All Creatures Great and Small, good clean fun and this is a good effort. So far so good, it's pleasant enough, continuity a bit weak in places but in a world gone mad it's an enjoyable bit of escapism. The acting, scenery and animals are a delight, long may it continue.

Some risks pay off

[brianm-46197 · 10/10 · 18 September 2020]

In this day and age it seems a huge risk to spend money on a show with no sex, violence, swearing or drug cartels but Channel 5 have pulled it off. Right from the start we were instantly invested in the new adventures of Mr Herriot and so far the series is a triumph. The seigfried character steals every scene hes in. Obviously picked up a few skills from his famous parents. The costumes and locations are fantastic and the show really goes all out to entertain. Can't wait to watch more.

Ooops! BBC

[refordgarry · 7/10 · 11 October 2020]

"All Creatures" was allegedly offered to the BBC, but rejected since it failed their diversity test, so I watched it judging that anything rejectable by "Beeb" must be entertaining. Right from the opening music to the production, location and cast we are still in the English time-line, which is a huge relief. Channel 5 and Playground Entertainment DID take a bit of a risk hiring unknown Nicholas Ralph as iconic James Herriot. To be quite honest it's hard to warm to his personality, since Christopher Timothy of the 1978 series was such a a cosy, all-compassing person, compared to this rather plastic Jimmy-James H. who hardly ever pulls even a wrong facial expression, if he ever could. The 2020 Siegfried Farnon played by Samuel west, is a slow-burn, as yet feeling his way into the part, with strong sense he'll blossom in subsequent Series. The housekeeper, Mrs Hall looks too young. If 40 really is the new 20's they really ought to have got someone older, to even tick a diversity box (ha ha, gotcha!). So, frank and fair, not primarily to spite the BBC (which is dying anyway) I do recommend All Creatures Great & Small, hoping it shall go from strength to strength, for all the "right" reasons.

Can we start again, please?

[tessromero · 5/10 · 19 September 2020]

First, the good: Nicholas Ralph is excellent in the main role. The most likeable, authentic (Scottish accent, yay!) portrayal of James yet.

The other cast members are well chosen too (with one exception, explained below). Samuel West is a good fit for Siegfried, although his potential in the role is not fully realised because of some disappointing plot choices.

Helen is given more to do, is a more independent and strong-willed character. This doesn't conflict with the books and is a welcome update. This Helen is free to wear trousers and speak her mind as her character in the books did.

The Dales scenery is gorgeous, the 1930s setting authentic, and the veterinary interaction with the animals convincing (for the most part).

The not so good: Much of the humour and warmth of the James Herriot books is missing. As an example: One of the funniest moments in the books, portrayed wonderfully in the BBC series, occurs when Siegfried visits a racecourse he wants a job at with a General who may get him the role. He ends up getting drunk with an old mate who unexpectedly turns up and his resulting hilarious behaviour means he doesn't get the job. In the 2020 version, the humour of the original story is discarded, replaced with a stilted point about Siegfried's loyalty to James.

Mrs Hall. In her 60s in the books. The creators of the 2020 series wanted to round out the character of Mrs Hall, give her a backstory etc. Great, good idea - but because apparently a woman in her 60s is incapable of being a well rounded character, they've also shaved 20 years off her. This ageist casting decision is baffling, until one considers the reason for it may be that the creators are planning some sort of Mrs Hall / Siegfried romance? Oh dear God, no... At any rate, the dynamic of Skeldale house is thrown off distractingly with plot twists such as Mrs Hall being responsible for James being hired.

I was really looking forward to a faithful update that would be as good as the BBC series, but alas, while a good attempt, it seems this is not to be it.

Finally, A Show Not Afraid To Be Wholesome!

[dmoorejdrf · 10/10 · 1 February 2022]

While most writers tend to believe you need to add sleaze and violence to be entertaining, All Creatures Great and Small proves you can tell a beautiful and feel good program by using positive characters and plots to bring, unfortunately, rare quality wholesome TV. I applaud the writers and the actors for making me believe that these characters actually are existed. ACGAS is our favorite TV show and I hope it has a very long life. Bravo to everyone involved.

Charming family telly

[terrypmulligan · 10/10 · 18 September 2020]

It's rare nowadays to find TV that is suitable for the whole family to enjoy but this adaptation of All Creatures hits the nail on the head. No sex, no violence, no bad language, just engrossing and comforting storytelling. It is well acted and well written, bringing me to tears one minute and in fits of laughter the next. Newcomer Nicholas Ralph IS James Herriot with a subtle but masterful performance. Rachel Shenton is the perfect Helen, independent and witty, making her a perfect match for Herriot. I thought it would be impossible for anyone to fill Robert Harry's shoes but Sam West is a brilliant Siegfried. He perfectly captures his eccentricities and kindness. Anna Madeley and Callum Woodhouse are brilliant as Mrs Hall and Tristan. Channel 5, you've got it right with this one!!

Pleasantly surprised

[macejones69 · 8/10 · 1 September 2020]

After watching the original series, my hopes for this remake were not high. I am happy to say how wrong I was, captured the setting perfectly and a good group of actors playing the characters so far. I am pretty impressed with Samuel West as Siegfried Farnon, definitely the stand out character here.

I look forward to what the series will bring next...

Very good series

[nhermida · 9/10 · 18 February 2021]

It's difficult these days to find a series that does not have violence or sex as main components of the storyline. Not that I don't enjoy that too. But this series is wonderful with a nice story, well acted, transporting the viewer to a different time. Very enjoyable.

A good remake of a UK Classic TV Show!

[cdeanroane · 10/10 · 22 October 2021]

I loved the version of this show from the '70's! This still carries this same wholesomeness of the that show. While some of the cast members are now younger then in the original series. Even with the death of Diana Rigg as Mrs. Pumphrey. The replacement is very good in the role of Tricky Woo's mom, and with Dr. James Herriot Tricky's uncle. We still the farmers who are looking for services for free or less then the going rate. Mrs. Hall in this version of the show is also younger then the original series. One great this is they have not added the bad language that seems to be overly used in many shows new and remakes as well!

Excellent series for all ages ..

[ronalamont-91472 · 10/10 · 4 February 2022]

This is probably the first time I've ever rated a show 10 but there really is nothing I can find fault with with this series. It's delightful, well written, acted, directed, edited, costumed, propped, and set in beautiful countryside with wonderful animals. It's authentic to the period in every way and the characters and storyline develop from episode to episode. There are enough interesting plot points within each episode, you don't have to watch them in succession but, of course, since there's a progressive storyline it's best to do so.

A young vet leaves his family in Glasgow to join a practice in England and moves in with the owner, his younger brother and a housekeeper. She is the glue that holds them all together but the younger brother, Tristan, always feels he has to prove himself to his brother ... who is very critical of him but loves him like a son... but gradually he starts to get more confidence and his brother begins to loosen the reins and trusts him with more responsibilities. There are love interests developing as time goes on and all but the housekeeper are smitten. It's wholesome, uplifting entertainment and leaves me with a smile on my face eagerly awaiting the next episode to air.

charming

[Kirpianuscus · 5 November 2020]

A real charming serie. For atmosphere, smart portraits of characters and lovely art of Nicholas Ralph to propose the fair image of James Herriot. A serie about people, animals and the lessons for a young veterinarian to define himself and accept a profound provocative community members. So...charming at whole.

All Creatures...

[dk777 · 7/10 · 22 March 2021]

An interesting and fun series that would have been different from most if the writers had endured to the end without trying to insert things that definitely have no place in a show like this. But even with those flaws, it's still worth a look.

The casting is good and the actors are doing well in their roles. It is interesting to see a series like this nowadays.

Of course, the show has flaws, because today's film production simply has to insert modern clichés even into series that take place in the past. Unfortunately, the series then loses on quality because it simply looks hilarious and causes a complete counter effect.

This series is mostly not bad and the characters are likable. The cinematography is good and the environment is really nice. The stories are fun, and the humor isn't forced like in most of today's series. Sure, there are some flaws that lower the impression, but overall, it's not that bad. The series is good enough, which cannot be said for most of today's film production.

The cast is good, the characters are fun and likeable, and the details and cinematography are solid.

Fortunately, as the series progressed, it improved a bit. The characters have lost a bit of modernity, which is very good.

The characters developed a little and gained depth, and the series itself began to resemble some bygone times, it began to resemble good old-fashioned entertainment.

Certainly a series that is better than most of today's unwatchable programming put out by the so-called entertainment industry that has almost nothing to do with entertainment anymore.

Just great.

[landlord-07102 · 10/10 · 2 September 2020]

Remakes are always difficult to follow. However watching this certainly didn't disappoint. Samuel West was excellent as Siegfried Farnon and Nicholas Ralph showed great potential on his acting debut. This has all the hallmarks of being a gem of a series. Can't wait for the next episode.

First episode OK

[zenjunkie · 7/10 · 1 September 2020]

Enjoying it but I'm a little worried if it may end up factually incorrect. Set in Yorkshire during the 30's - 40's and the opening scene has kids playing with hoola hoops that were not invented until 1958! That said, it looks like it will be enjoyable. I remember the Herriot books with fondness and enjoyed the original series in the 70's Hopefully this will be an antidote to the current sad state of the world.

Not for me.

[wentworthstreet · 2/10 · 9 September 2020]

I approached this reboot with an open mind. Like many, I remember with great affection the original series which ran from the late 1970's to the early 1990's.

I believe the first episode sets the tone of any series. We are now two episodes into this new adaptation and I am afraid this version totally lacks the warmth, gentle humour and pathos of the original.

Samuel West's Siegfried is an unpleasant bully and the local farmers are little better. Anna Madeley is a fine actress but far too young to play Mrs. Hall, and why in God's name has it been deemed necessary to give her a troublesome son?

With all due respect to Dame Diana Rigg, the wonderful Margaretta Scott will ALWAYS be Mrs. Pumphrey.

For me, the only positives are the glorious views of the Yorkshire Dales and the fact that James Herriot now has a Scottish accent.

I'll stick with the original and best, thanks.