Laura Bray

Enjoy it for what it is - for it is only based on the book in the loosest sense. On the plus side, the acting generally is very good and characters, particular Anne and Marilla, very believable. The story also deals with issues such as LGTB, racism, First Nation people, but does so gently. Anne's backstory is highlighted - a stark look at how difficult her childhood was. On the downside, the character of Gilbert is lost and bland - there is no chemistry or spark between him and Anne; time in the stories moves on and yet in the episodes it is forever winter; there are some bits that jarred with me - eg Rachel Lynde as Queen Victoria when the books are set 20 years later; Anne aged 16 in knee length skirts, Gilbert flitting between school and work. Gilbert's story is definitely odd. If you come with no expectations and take it for what it is, it's an enjoyable way to spend your time. But true to the books it is not.