I wonder how much influence MC has or doesn't have. I realize that with BP controlling production, the potential is there. But, actors and producers also realize that writers are paid for a reason.
So, it is general direction -- i.e., keep him grumpy and don't let there be too much romance b/t LG and DM? Or more specific, almost to the plot level?
I guess what I'm asking is whether we're right to lay things at the feet of MC and/or PB.
We're right. MC has made that pretty clear from several interviews.
OMG, That would be awful! I didn't even think that was a good end to an episode, never ming a series! Don't do that BP!
Agree that the ending to W&M was awful! Great series where the "too sweet" ending left a sour taste in my mouth.
As for DM, IMO it's really hard for writers to craft an ending that they aren't sure is the end or just a continuation. I would say that the ending of S4 was largely perfect in that regard . . . it provided a form of an ending that was satisfying but also could easily be continued . . . as it was.
We're right. MC has made that pretty clear from several interviews.
Then, while I might submit that too much control is a bad thing, the numbers (in terms of viewing audience) speak for themselves.
Several years ago in connection with a US show, one of the producers actually visited a forum like this one and briefly interacted with members. He made the point that, to be commercially successful, any show must appeal to the masses. He noted that people who frequent these types of boards may be the most interested and/or fervent, but that these views don't necessarily match those of the casual viewer who is supporting the show.
Also, given that the key advertising demographic is 18-45 yr olds -- and especially males in that age group (at least in the US), shows generally try to attract those viewers. If things work the same in England, I can definitely see why they want to keep DM a strong, difficult character with only flashes of romance. I would think that makes him -- and the show -- more appealing to a younger, male audience, which doesn't appear to be the core constituency of this forum.;)
Given that DM got the green light for a S5, which in turn is doing very well . . . perhaps MC/PB/BP know exactly what they're doing. We may not always like it, but the folks who pay the bills apparently do.:rolleyes:
Has this series had less 'enjoyment factor' than the previous four do you think?
I've just rewatched (ok, skimmed through) the first 3 episodes and I must say, they are better than I had thought at first watching. Once you get past the disappointment that the "romance" we hoped for, wasn't there in the usual way it has been in the past (still miss that love theme music), I think it is quite enjoyable, and the acting is uniformly good and MC and CC are great.
I've just rewatched (ok, skimmed through) the first 3 episodes and I must say, they are better than I had thought at first watching. Once you get past the disappointment that the "romance" we hoped for, wasn't there in the usual way it has been in the past (still miss that love theme music), I think it is quite enjoyable, and the acting is uniformly good and MC and CC are great.
I only recall it being used twice this series and only for a few seconds. I hope they have it queued up.
Oh yes, he is a very talented man, our Ben. Also, MC is good friends with Julian Fellowes, so who knows, we could get a DM/DA crossoever ;). Haha!.
[GASP] Oh my goodness!! That would be amazing!!! I can see a Earl of Grantham and LG thing going on there! (hmm, I spy crossover fanfic...;)) Do you know of anything else directed by Ben Bolt (who I know love even more, yes, very talented). MC and Julian Fellowed, that does seem a very unlikely friendship.:)
I'm feeling very antsy right now. Plenty of chores to do (I'm off on Monday), but now have to wait an extra hour for comments (time change for the US is next weekend)...and I've started eyeing that Halloween candy.
Can't believe it is the last episode of the series!!
I'm really looking forward to it...I've avoided reading any spoilers at all so I hope the ending is going to be a good one which fits in with the rest of the series.
[GASP] Oh my goodness!! That would be amazing!!! I can see a Earl of Grantham and LG thing going on there! (hmm, I spy crossover fanfic...;)) Do you know of anything else directed by Ben Bolt (who I know love even more, yes, very talented). MC and Julian Fellowed, that does seem a very unlikely friendship.:)
Just so long as DM doesn't marry Lady Mary and leave our Louisa high and dry! :eek:
I certainly think Aunt Ruth could give Violet as good as she got. Doctor Clarkson could swap with Doc Martin, he'd never have got Matthews diagnosis so wrong would he ? :eek:
I think MC was pictured with JF at the charity do that Connie posted a pic of recently.
I certainly thiink Aunt Ruth could give Violet as good as she got. Doctor Clarkson could swap with Doc Martin, he'd never have got Matthews diagnosis so wrong would he ? :eek:
Haha! No, never, I'm so pleased he did get it wrong though!
I'm feeling very antsy right now. Plenty of chores to do (I'm off on Monday), but now have to wait an extra hour for comments (time change for the US is next weekend)...and I've started eyeing that Halloween candy.
i admire your restraint...i see piles of wrappers everywhere i look....
Has this series had less 'enjoyment factor' than the previous four do you think?
That would be a big YES for me -- I have not enjoyed this series at all. I've been mourning for a throwback to S1, 2 or 3! Very sad, waiting all this time for this kind of continuation. :(:cry:
So much going on in here, that's great. I've been really busy & no chance to have a good read of all the posts.
Excited about this episode. Shame we have to wait the extra hr....
Just waiting now to read everyone's posts. I'll be on here for the next couple of hours so please be kind with your description on what's happening in this ep.
Comments
Agree that the ending to W&M was awful! Great series where the "too sweet" ending left a sour taste in my mouth.
As for DM, IMO it's really hard for writers to craft an ending that they aren't sure is the end or just a continuation. I would say that the ending of S4 was largely perfect in that regard . . . it provided a form of an ending that was satisfying but also could easily be continued . . . as it was.
Then, while I might submit that too much control is a bad thing, the numbers (in terms of viewing audience) speak for themselves.
Several years ago in connection with a US show, one of the producers actually visited a forum like this one and briefly interacted with members. He made the point that, to be commercially successful, any show must appeal to the masses. He noted that people who frequent these types of boards may be the most interested and/or fervent, but that these views don't necessarily match those of the casual viewer who is supporting the show.
Also, given that the key advertising demographic is 18-45 yr olds -- and especially males in that age group (at least in the US), shows generally try to attract those viewers. If things work the same in England, I can definitely see why they want to keep DM a strong, difficult character with only flashes of romance. I would think that makes him -- and the show -- more appealing to a younger, male audience, which doesn't appear to be the core constituency of this forum.;)
Given that DM got the green light for a S5, which in turn is doing very well . . . perhaps MC/PB/BP know exactly what they're doing. We may not always like it, but the folks who pay the bills apparently do.:rolleyes:
I've just rewatched (ok, skimmed through) the first 3 episodes and I must say, they are better than I had thought at first watching. Once you get past the disappointment that the "romance" we hoped for, wasn't there in the usual way it has been in the past (still miss that love theme music), I think it is quite enjoyable, and the acting is uniformly good and MC and CC are great.
I only recall it being used twice this series and only for a few seconds. I hope they have it queued up.
Oh yes, he is a very talented man, our Ben. Also, MC is good friends with Julian Fellowes, so who knows, we could get a DM/DA crossoever
Great idea. I though MC playing DM's dad had a very DA look to him. Oh the acronyms!
[GASP] Oh my goodness!! That would be amazing!!! I can see a Earl of Grantham and LG thing going on there! (hmm, I spy crossover fanfic...;)) Do you know of anything else directed by Ben Bolt (who I know love even more, yes, very talented). MC and Julian Fellowed, that does seem a very unlikely friendship.:)
Just so long as DM doesn't marry Lady Mary and leave our Louisa high and dry! :eek:
No, an hour and four mins till lift off
http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0093322/
I'm really looking forward to it...I've avoided reading any spoilers at all so I hope the ending is going to be a good one which fits in with the rest of the series.
Oh thank you Kernow. Didn't realise he's done quite so many.
I certainly think Aunt Ruth could give Violet as good as she got.
I think MC was pictured with JF at the charity do that Connie posted a pic of recently.
Haha! No, never, I'm so pleased he did get it wrong though!
i admire your restraint...i see piles of wrappers everywhere i look....
I've already informed hubby, save handing out the Reese's cups for last. They are so good in the freezer!
Happy viewing everyone! Hope we all get what we want in our goodie bags for the last episode!
That would be a big YES for me -- I have not enjoyed this series at all. I've been mourning for a throwback to S1, 2 or 3! Very sad, waiting all this time for this kind of continuation.
Excited about this episode. Shame we have to wait the extra hr....
Just waiting now to read everyone's posts. I'll be on here for the next couple of hours so please be kind with your description on what's happening in this ep.
Bring it on....