cosmax10 I could see where this could of been an amazing show, but it really ended up being more of a soap opera with the odd sexual romp between nurses and doctors, and the tormented looks of anguished pasts on the faces on some of the characters is overdone. I think nobody does period drama better than the UK, but this was isn't one of those for me. I think if you wanted light entertainment about the personal lives of the nurses entwined with love and romance this would be an ideal show. They also added the bad guy character into the plot as well. The acting is good according to the scripts given to them, but there really wasn't anyone that stood out. I find the same actors appearing in British shows whether it is a murder mystery, police drama or historical piece. I have seen the character that lost his legs in two separate Poirot movies, and I am sure a Midsomer Murder here and there.

emcarso Within the first minutes of watching this series I knew that I was hooked. It gives an honest representation of life in the war hospitals of Northern France during the First World War. While many depictions of war-time focus on the absolute patriotism of those involved, this series shows that lines do get blurred when individual, real people are involved. The impeccable production is what initially catches your attention, but then an outstanding cast brings the writing of Sarah Phelps to life. The dynamic relationships between the characters means that there is truly something for everyone to love in this show. In fact, I would argue that it has a lot in common with the massive hit show, Downton Abbey, as it explores many of the same themes though in a completely unique way. Where D.A. explores the realities of hierarchy in early 20th century British society, The Crimson Field does the same with the ranking within the army and hospital camps. Also present are complicated love stories, a discussion of homosexuality, loyalty and duty, one's honour, and so much more! Truly, this is one of the greatest television shows that I have seen of late. If you feel as I do, passionately about great TV, please head to ipetitions and sign to have the BBC recommission this show!

jane_boston Sarah Phelps has written a new perspective on WWI that is intelligent, humorous, compassionate and poignant. While it is from the point of view of nurses and VAD's in WWI, the experiences of the soldiers who are their patients, and that of the other men on staff, are given equal attention. Each major character has a depth of storyline that still has not been fully revealed (writing this review after viewing S1Ep5). I've been counting the days until the next episode airs, eager to learn more about what past events has shaped each of these very well drawn, fully realized people. Above all, this is where the uncommon strength of this series lies. I hope that we get to see these wonderful characters proceed through to 1918.All of the actors are very talented and a joy to watch, but most especially newcomer Richard Rankin. His character, the Scottish surgeon Capt. Thomas Gillan, is explosive, passionate and conflicted.I completely agree with previous reviewers that favored director Richard Clark's episodes, his vision is truly beautiful.

mumz BBC One needs to be much more attentive to highlighting the work that is being accomplished in this show, to draw in a much wider audience. I have thoroughly enjoyed watching The Crimson Field. It has been a delight to be introduced to so many actors and actresses who are so very talented. To be able to portray each story line, to actually get the underlying feelings and angst across in each episode in such a short time is difficult under the best of conditions. Some of the best stories from history are those of people who were not in the lime light, as that is how you get the best "feel" for how "real" people dealt with "real" life without boring the viewer to tears. The story line is quite believable, and the interaction between and amongst the principle characters is quite spot on. Modern viewers who are easily disappointed by "not enough action" or "not enough gore" or something equally compelling need to remember that, during this period, things were much simpler and people were still functioning around stereotypes and clichés. News from the rest of the world was *not* instantaneous as it is now, therefore watching a period piece with hindsight is really quite unfair to all involved in the production. To be able to portray so much within a short period of time requires all involved to be succinct and on-point ... which this series is. Now it needs to be available in the US *and* we need to have at least another 3 seasons to be able to properly follow these story lines to their conclusions.