mspeed44
I watched this as a television series on A&E, remembered it as good, and just purchased the dvds. Well, it is so much better and truly timeless--I've watched it with friends who never saw it on television and they are all instant fans. Lovejoy and his antiques are as refreshing delightful today as they were in the 1990s. His friends are just as lovable (maybe more so!) and wacky as ever. Set in England, the cars and clothes are not out of place or out of style. The stories--every one of them--gives pleasure, not a poorly written line in any, and many many laughs. Perfect multi-generation viewing, nothing is "R" rated! And you just might learn a little history along the way!! Seeing Ian McShane as Lovejoy lets you appreciate his acting talents in Deadwood! If A&E wants a hit series, just put this show on to compete with some of the awful stuff on the networks now.
bensonmum2
I am so excited that Lovejoy has finally come to DVD. I used to love the show, but hadn't seen an episode since the A&E network stopped running it some years ago. So as I put the first DVD in the player, I was ready for a huge letdown. But to my surprise and delight, the show is just as good as I remember a good mix of mystery, action, and comedy with some interesting, fun characters and just a dash of history. Lovejoy is old-world British charm meets modern day realities and cynicism. Watching Lovejoy is akin to wearing an old pair of shoes or a favorite sweater it's comfortable. It's always been the kind of television that works best when I curl up on the couch late at night. And making the show so special and enjoyable is Ian McShane. I've yet to see him in Deadwood, so I am most familiar with McShane in this role. And what a pleasure to watch he is. He makes Lovejoy a carefree, smart, sly, resourceful character not above doing something underhanded especially if it will help out a friend. He's the kind of guy you want on your side. He is ably assisted by a terrific supporting cast that includes Dudley Sutton as Tinker Dill, Chris Jury as Eric Catchpole, and Phyllis Logan as Lady Jane Felsham. Together, they're wonderful. While the easygoing style and subject matter of Lovejoy may not appeal to those wanting a thrill-a-minute and MTV style editing, it suits me perfectly.I can't wait for Season 2!
janettecook
The TV series, "Lovejoy", set in the anachronistic East Anglian countryside, mostly on the Essex/Suffolk border, is based on the books of Johnathan Gash. However, the main character as portrayed by Ian McShane is a great deal more attractive and sympathetic than Gash's original. The early series features the ongoing "will-they-won't-they" tease in the relationship between Lovejoy and the long-suffering Lady Jane Felsham, whilst his confederates, Tinker and Eric, add further quirky humour to the already amusing themes. As the seasons progressed the highly professional production extended even to the final credits through the witty choice of stills to accompany the various technical acknowledgements. The one small inconsistency never explained is why the name of Lovejoy's daughter changes from Kate to Victoria between one series and the next!
pjonsson
This TV series brings back fond memories of the late 80's, early 90's. Happen to have an interest in Antiques but this was completely unnecessary in order to enjoy the series. Lovejoy the Antiques dealer was an interesting combination of amateur Detective, righter of wrongs, incurable romantic/ womaniser (!), and occasional con-man which gave him a slightly dark edge - though he would generally only con other con-men or unsavoury wealthy types with so much money they would hardly notice it. This was a programme which at the time seemed to out-shine all others. The first series in 1986 was separated by a five year gap to 1991 for the second series. It only returned due to huge public demand in the UK. In the end six series were produced though some of the old characters had sadly disappeared by the last series. Why do I think Lovejoy was so good? Because it was refreshingly innocent - there was no 'body count' (well a very occasional murder), lots of good-natured banter between friends and very varied story-lines. Plus Lovejoy seemed to lead a rather enviable life, sometimes struggling financially, other times with a wind-fall but always surrounded by good friends and enjoying the hell out of life. And what country-side - the beautiful green fields and villages of England's East Anglia! There were 71 episodes to enjoy, and it does get repeated here and there - but only a few episodes have been released on VHS. Where Oh where are the DVD's??? If you haven't seen it yet and get a chance to see it - do so - it'll leave you with a feel-good factor you won't forget.