Author Topic: PBS Masterpiece Classic 2011-2012 (Read 157211 times)

marcie · « **on:** December 01, 2011, 11:50:20 PM »

Masterpiece Classic 2012 brings back favorite authors and introduces new authors and programs. See the complete 2012 MASTERPIECE CLASSIC schedule.

ALREADY DISCUSSED

April 22 & 29, 2012 at 9pm
Birdsong
An adaptation of Sebastian Faulk's novel about lovers torn apart by World War I. Eddie Redmayne (The Pillars of the Earth) plays Stephen Wrayford, whose pre-war affair with Isabelle Azaire (Clemence Poesy, Harry Potter films) has an enduring effect on him as he fights in the trenches.

   April 15, 2012
   The Mystery of Edwin Drood
   An adaptation and completion of Charles Dickens' last novel left unfinished at the halfway mark at his death, The Mystery Of Edwin Drood is a psychological thriller about a provincial choirmaster's obsession with 17-year-old Rosa Bud and the lengths he will go to to attain her. Cast includes Matthew Rhys (Brothers & Sisters) and Julia MacKenzie (Miss Marple).

   April 1 & 8, 2012
   Great Expectations
   Widely considered one of the greatest novels by Charles Dickens, Great Expectations tells the story of Pip the battered orphan boy, who rises from blacksmith's apprentice to gentleman under the patronage of a mysterious benefactor, who assures him of "great expectations." Starring Gillian Anderson, David Suchet and Ray Winstone.

February 26, 2012
One 90-minute episode
The Old Curiosity Shop
A teenage girl and her grandfather lose everything to a maniacal moneylender and flee his relentless pursuit. Derek Jacobi (I, Claudius) stars as Grandfather, with Sophie Vavasseur (Northanger Abbey) as Nell and Toby Jones (Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy) as Quilp.

January 8 to February 19, 2012
Downton Abbey Season 2
Downton Abbey season 2 resumes the story of aristocrats and servants in the tumultuous World War I era. The international hit is written by Julian Fellowes and stars Maggie Smith, Elizabeth McGovern, and Hugh Bonneville, plus a drawing room full of new actors, portraying the loves, feuds, and sacrifices of a glittering culture thrown into crisis. Watch all episodes online through March 6 at http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/masterpiece/watch/index.html

The Primetime Emmy Award® winning Downton Abbey season one returns December 18 & 25, 2011 and January 1, 2012. (Check local listings.)

BarbStAubrey · « **Reply #1 on:** December 02, 2011, 01:21:52 AM »

This is mostly to mark my place however, it appears from everything advertised and that I can read Downton Abbey in January is to be a repeat of what we have seen already - it would be so grand if we get to see the next series - I thought maybe the repeat was setting us up for the second series - maybe they have decided to do things differently here in Austin - we shall see what we shall see...

salan · « **Reply #2 on:** December 02, 2011, 05:31:57 AM »

X marks my spot
Sally

nlhome · « **Reply #3 on:** December 02, 2011, 07:43:52 AM »

Looking forward to these shows, even the repeats.

Frybabe · « **Reply #4 on:** December 02, 2011, 08:35:23 AM »

Excellent line-up.

Ah, I see we must wait until January to view Season 2.

marcie · « **Reply #5 on:** December 02, 2011, 10:35:35 AM »

Since Downton Abbey was so popular, I would think that most PBS stations would show season 2 during the national broadcast timeframe, from January 8 to February 19, 2012.

MaryPage · « **Reply #6 on:** December 02, 2011, 06:46:05 PM »

I am here. Speaking of classics, while we are treading water here, so to speak, I watched the film of the newish JANE EYRE last night. Got it in the Red Box (Netflex) at my grocery store. Cost me all of $1.06 to view it! I had not gone to the movie when it was in the theatres, as I have seen every Jane Eyre ever done on film over the years, and there must have been a dozen or so. Each one has had a slightly different take on it, but most have been quite good. If I love a story and have read it more than once, as is the case with this great classic, I dearly love seeing the different films. I can highly recommend this one. It, once again, has a slightly different take and has changed a bit here, twigged a bit there, but none of it annoying at all. The very best thing about this one is the cinemaphotography. THAT is OUTstanding! The young woman who plays Jane Eyre is quite amazing, as well. And of course, last but not least, it has our very favorite Dame Judi Dench as Mrs. Fairfax, the housekeeper. I don't need to mention she is great in the part, because your own experience of her will assure you of that.

bellemere · « **Reply #7 on:** December 03, 2011, 10:28:43 AM »

I'm here for the first time, eager to get back to Downton Abbey. what IS it that so fascintates us with the English aristocracy?
Also, Jane Eyre lovers might like "Wide Sargasso Sea" the novel (1920's) by jean Rhys which tells the story from the point of view of Rochester's first wife. I believe it was made into a film, goo, but not sure. _

FlaJean · « **Reply #8 on:** December 03, 2011, 11:34:24 AM »

Aberlaine · « **Reply #9 on:** December 03, 2011, 05:00:03 PM »

I just lost what I was going to post. So frustrating! In short, I said that I'm leaving for a two week vacation tomorrow morning, so I won't be able to see Return to Cranford, but hopefully PBS will have it available for viewing on their website shortly after it's over.

I'm going to watch the original Downton Abbey so I can refresh my memory as to story and characters. And I'll definitely be watching the new episodes in January!

Nancy

Frybabe · « **Reply #10 on:** December 03, 2011, 05:24:27 PM »

Have a wonderful vacation Nancy.

marcie · « **Reply #11 on:** December 04, 2011, 01:09:47 AM »

I hope you have a great vacation, Nancy.

JeanneP · « **Reply #12 on:** December 15, 2011, 06:56:16 PM »

Did anyone watch both Season one and 2 of "InTreatment"? with Gabriel Byrne. I can't wait to get Season three. Is it out yet?
?

MaryPage · « **Reply #13 on:** December 16, 2011, 08:32:34 AM »

I have never heard of Intreatment. What network was it on and what is it about?

BarbStAubrey · « **Reply #14 on:** December 17, 2011, 12:16:39 AM »

I have not heard of the show either but I sure like Gabriel Byrne - a sadness and vulnerability about him - so not a heartthrob but an interesting Irish face and mannerisms.

Frybabe · « **Reply #15 on:** December 17, 2011, 12:36:18 PM »

I've seen Gabriel Byrne in several movies, but the one that stuck in my mind is Point of No Return.

ginny · « **Reply #16 on:** December 17, 2011, 03:32:05 PM »

Oh I was so excited to get the Book Bytes and learn that tomorrow? In some areas of the country Downton Abbey is coming back! And if not tomorrow here then January 8 for sure! What a joy, especially now that my oldest got my old VCR machine working, such excitement!

I'm going to watch the old one again before January so I can tell what's happening, I got pretty lost in the last one but it was complicated, I thought. I am very interested to see what happens to the young heir.

Thank you Marcie for the Bytes, I'm glad we can come here and stay up on the news.

Aberlaine · « **Reply #17 on:** December 17, 2011, 07:14:08 PM »

Thanks for the wishes for a great vacation. I went on a 12-night cruise to the Caribbean and returned home this afternoon. The islands were spectacular and the ship was glorious. I'm very happy to be home, however. Almost two weeks is too long for me to be gone. While I was away my new little dog got even with me for leaving by destroying a few of my things.

Tomorrow I'm going to try to find The Return to Cranford and watch it online. As for Downton Abbey, has anyone found out if the showing in January is another repeat of the first?

Nancy

Frybabe · « **Reply #18 on:** December 17, 2011, 07:42:01 PM »

Here is the schedule Nancy. http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/masterpiece/classic/index.html

Season 2 starts Jan. 8. The next three weeks will cover the Season 1 repeat. I am excited to see Great Expectations and The Mystery of Edwin Drood on the schedule too. David Suchet is in Great Expectations. I wonder what part he will play.

PS: Glad you had a nice time.

JeanneP · « **Reply #19 on:** December 18, 2011, 06:44:34 PM »

"Downton Abbey" will be on our PBS station tonight from 7pm to 10pm. and then they say the Second series in January. I will watch it again tonight just to remember what happened. (I do have the DVD set of the 1st part.) I think it was a gift last Christmas or maybe Christmas Before.

marcie · « **Reply #20 on:** December 18, 2011, 09:23:43 PM »

Yes, season 2 of Downton Abbey will be broadcast January 8 to February 19, 2012.

ginny · « **Reply #21 on:** December 19, 2011, 09:23:52 AM »

JeanneP, thank you, I saw your note just in time to catch the 8-9 pm episode (I have them on tape too and have promised self a couple of night's treat by the fire before January 8 gets here). (Had to turn it off at 9 to see who won the Iron Chef thing which I have not been following but I really like Geoffrey Zakarian, of Chopped, and was glued to the set from 9-10 to see him win)

. A tip of the hat to the 52 year old white haired chef, with the old fashioned black glasses!!

It's nice to see somebody who appears to have a little age go up against the great younger modern chefs of our day in 2011 and win!

But isn't the old Downton absolutely wonderful, tho? So many nuances I actually did not notice the first time, it now makes perfect sense, it's really good. I have no idea why I thought the two oldest girls were ugly, or at best, homely, they aren't, at all!

CallieOK · « **Reply #22 on:** December 20, 2011, 10:34:26 PM »

Marking my place. I've enjoyed the repeat of "Cranford" and am enjoying the repeats of Season 1 of "Downton Abbey".
A local art theater had a "sneak preview" showing of Downton Abbey's Season 2. I haven't seen a Review, so don't know if it was like a full-length movie.

marcie · « **Reply #23 on:** December 21, 2011, 10:21:39 AM »

That's interesting about the sneak preview of Downton Abbey 2. There is a minute-and-a-half preview at http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/masterpiece/classic/index.html

EvelynMC · « **Reply #24 on:** December 25, 2011, 09:33:49 PM »

I'll be watching with you.

Evelyn

marcie · « **Reply #25 on:** December 25, 2011, 11:39:48 PM »

It will be good to have you join us, Evelyn!

MaryPage · « **Reply #26 on:** December 27, 2011, 07:53:49 AM »

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!

http://www.humorsphere.com/fun/8787/colortest.swf

Frybabe · « **Reply #27 on:** December 27, 2011, 09:20:03 AM »

Good one, MaryPage.

I got wind of a Downton Abbey Christmas Special which, I suppose, we won't get to see until next winter. Read a blog or two about it and saw some clips. The timeline puts is after Season 2. More to look forward to. I wonder if this means a Season 3 is in the works?

marcie · « **Reply #28 on:** December 27, 2011, 11:48:47 PM »

MaryPage, that was harder than I thought it would be! Thanks.

Frybabe, that will be good if there is more. PBS most always creates better programs than most that are offered on other channels.

serenesheila · « **Reply #29 on:** December 28, 2011, 08:49:56 PM »

I am watching "Downton Abbey", for the first time. It is wonderful! It is shown here, on Sunday evenings. Time feels as if it is taking much longer from Sunday to Sunday.

I always tape Masterpiece each week. So, I have no idea, how I missed this series the first time around. So far, it reminds me a lot of "Upstairs, Downstairs". Which is one of my all time favorites. So, I am watching it, again.

Sheila

marcie · « **Reply #30 on:** December 29, 2011, 01:19:10 AM »

Sheila, I'm glad you are getting to see Downton Abbey. Just in time for the second season, too!

CubFan · « **Reply #31 on:** December 29, 2011, 09:42:26 AM »

Greetings,

On Saturday, 31 Dec. our local PBS station is showing all four first season episodes of Downton Abby back to back starting at 1pm and running until 7 pm. An alternative to the 5 college football bowl games that day. It'll be nice to see them in sequence without a week between. Will get my snacks and needlework ready for the day. That program will be followed by the New York Philharmonic concert. What a day!

Too bad we can't have a Downton Abby party. There will be plenty of people planning to watch back to back college football bowl games over the weekend with parties.

Mary

ginny · « **Reply #32 on:** December 31, 2011, 10:12:21 AM »

I'm up for a Downton Abbey virtual party! I am not sure that my station is showing these today, lucky you, but they are showing at least one episode, so why ever not? hahaha Thank you for that notice, Mary, I'll tune in anyway at 1 and hope: and maybe the programming notes on the statellite are old.

Entertainment Magazine this week has a huge many pages spread on Downton Abbey and contains many spoilers.

It also contains the news that they begin filming Season 3 in February, so that's good news, it's just like Brideshead or Upstairs Downstairs, apparently, it's caught on, and now it will expand. Great way to ring in the New Year!

marcie · « **Reply #33 on:** December 31, 2011, 01:09:05 PM »

Yes, we can have an ongoing Downton Abbey party here. For those of you who don't see the encore presentation on your TV station, you can watch full episodes of Season One online at http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/masterpiece/watch/index.html.

Zulema · « **Reply #34 on:** January 02, 2012, 12:14:04 PM »

Before anything else, I would like to wish a healthy and happy New Year to all. I have not been here for ages but have followed the postings sporadically.

I should probably spend more time here than in other pursuits, but inertia usually triumphs. Anyway, Hello Ginny and many more of you whom I have met or read your posts.

As for "Downton Abbey," I loved it from the first, and watched the repeats during December. So many things left hanging they just had to do a second series. And I will here confess that I disliked the new "Upstairs Downstairs" as badly as I liked the original (Is that English?).

And will end with an anecdote that ties in from another series, from last week's "Jeopardy" show. The category was British Novels by Characters. One of the clues was Charles Ryder and Lord and Lady Marchmain. None of the three contestants could identify the novel, which most of us know from the TV series, "Brideshead Revisited," even those who have not read the book (I read it after I had watched it 11 times --I am not exaggerating. A friend of mine who is now 62, named her daughter Julia 31 years ago for the Marchmain's daughter, Julia Flyte. But 30 years later, oh...well!
Apologies for writing so much, after having written nothing for very long.
Zulema in New York.

marcie · « **Reply #35 on:** January 02, 2012, 12:57:16 PM »

Welcome, Zulema. I'm glad that Downton Abbey enticed you here. I watched one of the episodes of Season 1 yesterday to get me caught up. I had meant to watch all of the episodes but I couldn't bring myself for some reason to watch again Sarah O'Brien, Lady Grantham's maid, take out her vengeance (all in her mind) on Lady Grantham and the awful results.

I do want to see what happens to many of the characters including Matthew Crawley, Lady Mary and Lady Sybil and John Bates and Anna Smith.

Zulema · « **Reply #36 on:** January 02, 2012, 08:45:38 PM »

Hi, Marcie,

It was even better the second time around, and the final episode I thought was the best, so I am looking forward to this Sunday's beginning of the second part. I hope to participate in the Dickens discussion also.

marcie · « **Reply #37 on:** January 03, 2012, 01:16:48 AM »

Zulema, that's great. We all seem to be in the mood to see season 2. Only a week to go!

I'm glad that you'll be in the Dickens' discussion too. I hope everyone is voting for a favorite Dickens to talk about in February.

jeriron · « **Reply #38 on:** January 03, 2012, 08:36:26 AM »

Our PBS is showing the last Season 1 right before the new one this Sunday. Even though I watched it Sunday I might watch it again.

JeanneP · « **Reply #39 on:** January 03, 2012, 02:14:20 PM »

Can't wait for Season 2 on Sunday. Will then buy it as I already have Season 1. Sure we will enjoy watching them over and over as years pass. Will not surprise me if a Season 3 will not be suggested. The series so popular. Should pass up on "Upstairs Downstairs"I think. Now how many series did it have?

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Author Topic: PBS Masterpiece Classic 2011-2012 (Read 157211 times)