michael skipper

A feel-good factor show set in a glistening time of history, a dreamland of a location and romantically brought to life through some fantastic characters, all of which are played brilliantly. I’m so glad I watched this as I almost didn’t having seen RTomatoe’s critics general rating of 57%, which I now question. This show sets out to bring to light the injustices of the era, of the town, of some key real life individuals, and twist it to how it could’ve been. It’s not meant to be a dark, gritty, complex experience and it chooses not to go deep into the cultural pitfalls of Hollywood’s society at the time. Instead, it makes them clear enough to be recognised, just enough for the viewer to empathise and sympathise with anyone who wasn’t male and white at the time. It sells positivity and is the most charming show I have watched in ages. If you sit down, grab your popcorn and set out to nail this in one day or two nights, then you won’t be disappointed. Each episode runs seamlessly into the next and the momentum, plot intrigue and love of the style, design and manners of the time will keep you fixed. It’s a really good series and I can’t wait for season two... hopefully, with more than just 7 episodes.