Gormenghast

For some reason this BBC mini-series never caught on in North America which is really quite a shame. Based on the two Mervyn Peake novels GORMENGHAST and TITUS GROAN the story revolves around the Groan family but is actually more about the ambitions of a kitchen slug by the name of Steerpike. Surprisingly enough not a single one of my kitchen bitch friends have ever heard of this one. Jonathan Rhys Meyers is perfect in this role and is a fascinating watch. Also of great note is the interaction between the great Christopher Lee and Richard Griffiths of recent Harry Potter fame. It's always great to see Lee out but when pitted against Griffiths it becomes a truly special treat. Other Harry Potter stand-bys Fiona Shaw and Zoe Wanamaker also turn in some great work. Yes, it's a made for TV jobbie but the acting is so top notch you'll hardly ever notice. A great one for the older kids especially those who are into the NARNIA series.