What you need to know about the BBC period drama hailed as a ‘flawless masterpiece’

• The BBC period drama Lark Rise to Candleford is being praised by fans as a “flawless masterpiece” and a realistic alternative to the grander Downton Abbey. The series is an adaptation of Flora Thompson’s trilogy of semi-autobiographical novels published between 1939 and 1943.

• The show is set in the late 19th century and focuses on daily life in the English countryside. It explores the contrast between the modest Oxfordshire hamlet of Lark Rise and the more prosperous market town of Candleford.

• The narrative follows a young girl named Laura Timmins as she moves from Lark Rise to Candleford. Laura goes to work for her mother’s cousin, the independent and spirited Dorcas Lane.

• The production featured a notable cast, including actors such as Julia Sawalha, Dawn French, and Brendan Coyle. Many of the scenes were filmed in purpose-built villages located in Wiltshire.

• Lark Rise to Candleford originally began broadcasting in 2008 and successfully ran for four seasons. However, the BBC cancelled the show in 2011 to make room for new programming.

• The decision to axe the series devastated its devoted fanbase, who launched online campaigns and gathered thousands of signatures. Viewers frequently compare the show favourably to Downton Abbey, noting its greater substance in portraying the reality of life for ordinary people.

• Reviews on IMDB praise the production for its superb acting and its ability to appeal to a wide range of age groups. This includes attracting younger male viewers who enjoy the show’s content.

• Fans describe the four-season drama as a “lyrical love poem” to English village life that warms the heart. The entire series is currently available for viewers to stream for free on BBC iPlayer.

   

  SOURCE: liverpoolecho