The Rosemary & Thyme: The Complete Collection begins with an opulent floral arrangement artistically blossoming to the gentle composition of "Scarborough Fair." This is a show that lures me to a relaxing break in front of the TV: beautiful homes, antiques and interiors, breathtaking landscapes, quaint and charming country villages, shady plots, mysterious characters, brilliant actors, engaging dialogue, wit and romance. Rosemary and Laura uncover murdered victims and restore justice with their investigative talents.
Rosemary & Thyme: The Complete Collection's scenic locations include manor homes in the English countryside, London's Kew Gardens and Regent's Park; the French Riviera; Italy's Ligurian coast; a Surrey vineyard; and the hills of Malaga, Spain. Guest stars include Anthony Andrews, Oliver Ford Davis, Phyllida Law, Julian Wadham, Margaret Tyzack, and Michael Maloney.
This artistic and tasteful series is void of vulgarity and gory violent crimes. The relationship between these two hard-working single ladies brings dignity to women forging forth from unfortunate circumstances, and levity to extremely grave situations. The background is filled with some romantic flirtations, as well as some serious family situations; but, the characters are genuine and endearing, and you simply want to be their friend and spend time with them as they race around the landscape in their sturdy, but stable, Land Rover.
One thing that I find interesting in British shows is the casting of actors. It seems the roles are filled by those who resemble the characters in features, physical appearance and emotions -- whether good or evil. Whereas, in many American dramas you will find that the roles are primarily chosen according to physical appearance first. In reality, people come in all shapes, sizes and physical appearances, and I find the Brits seem to capture the truth of the individual, and not just the glamor. I find this a more comfortable fit and more believable story.
Rosemary & Thyme: The Complete Collection includes 22 episodes on seven discs. The Bonus Features include Location and Production Notes which gives historical updates and informative facts on filming. An enlightening eight minute interview with stars Felicity Kendal and Pam Ferris highlights the inception of the series and their character evolution as they are developed and the Photo Gallery boasts of an array of filming shots from the series.
It is a pity that ITV Studios would cancel such an delightfully pleasant show that brings so much joy to its audiences. This is not a blood-and-guts action series, but involves just spending some quality time with a beautifully orchestrated crime series. Felicity is so cute and adorable and always wears something that bespeaks her profession, i.e. a colorful blouse ornate with flowers or fern, whereas Laura is sensible, methodic and her warmth captivates your attention while her recent marriage break-up pulls at your empathy. Their interaction makes me feel very comfortable, as if they have taken me into their confidence and I just want to curl up on the couch with a cup of tea and settle in for an entertaining evening of romping around the gardens -- anticipating where their adventures will take me!
