lixouri Lusting for Richard Armitage led me to "Sparkhouse." Lust (as opposed to love)will steer you wrong every time. Clearly the other reviewers loved this show, but I couldn't get over its feeble plotting, unbelievable dialogue, and flat ending. Sarah Smart's committed performance as Carol Bolton couldn't save this melodrama for me, and I simply didn't believe the relationship between her character and Joseph McFadden's Andrew Lawton. How could the complex and deeply feeling Carol continue to love the feckless, selfish Andrew? Celia Imre and Nicholas Farrell can do no wrong, and Holly Grainger was quite impressive as Lisa Bolton. But these few solid performances were not enough. And as for the darling darling Richard Armitage, not a shining moment, I'm afraid.

Eowyn1967 I really enjoyed this movie. I found it riveting and had to watch the 3 episodes in a row: Sarah Smart (Carol) is particularly excellent, the pace is fast, the dialogues are well written, the whole cast is really good, including the two young actresses who play Lisa as a child and then as a teenager - Carol's father (Alun Armstrong) is particularly convincing.I only have this reserve which prevents me from rating it as 10/10 that,to me, Joe MacFadden (Andrew) seems less convincing towards the end, when he starts breaking down. I found him more annoying than heart-breaking and I think it's a pity that the script didn't have his character be more honest with his wife about his past (and present) relationship with Carol. Maybe it is "The Wuthering Heights" influence. Maybe "Sparkhouse" might have been even better without this inspiration.As for Richard Armitage as John Standring, it was difficult to recognise him at first. He gives a very good performance. This character is so far from his other roles. I loved seeing his transformation in the 3rd episode! This DVD is certainly worth buying.

k_k_maxwell Excellent! I was blown away with it and got a bit teary eyed! Brilliant performances by Sarah Smart (Carol) and Joseph Mc Fadden (Andrew) *applause*Such a moving, yet gripping story about love that wants to survive away from the people who want to separate them forever.I describe it as a beautiful collision.Love it!!

Topacoz When the Dutch tv-stations offer only Chuck Norris-movies and news talkshows, I escape to the BBC. On a Sunday night, I fell into Monarch of the Glen and kept watching it. Then came Sparkhouse: a rollercoaster ride of emotions, which still keeps me thinking about the story over and over again. Cast (especially Joseph Mc Fadden and Sarah Smart!!), directing, locations were perfect. BBC, thank you for a fantastic experience!!