The acting

Suchet – has several assets of the fine, even great, actor, but one’s always aware he’s performing. The focus on technique over emotional truth is a problem with many British actors.

Macfadyen—very good. A believable wastrel, though he made Felix’s helpless child act overblown and obvious. His good looks & charm made Felix’s ability to cozen people very believable.

Murphy—Convincingly but ultimately tiresomely earnest. And he’s, well, odd looking.

Henderson—excellent at playing complex, unhappy roles. Good match for the powerful Suchet. Masterfully, believably portrays Marie’s rollercoaster emotional progression.

Hodge—very good. Unlike some others, he DOES seem very human, in his conflicting instincts.

Baeza—stuck with one of those not-too-interesting characters of integrity. Believable, but wish she’d shown more sexual fire.

Otto—stuck with an even less well developed character, The Vengeful Gorgon. And that atrocious accent!

Corduner—the wit and spirit of his Arthur Sullivan were sadly missing here.

Duff—very good. We feel for her, but finally realize she’s no better than the people who shunned her for seeing a Jew.

Carter—wonderful!