New drama The Village starting tonight at 9pm

I agree Tegan. I found it engrossing. Most of the characters portrayed in there are very true to life, even in my generation and I found I could relate to their problems, which I think is a sign of very good writing and acting. That school teacher was a nasty piece of work though but I'm sure there were, and still are, teachers like him.

Felt sympathy for John Simm's character, knowing I think that change had to come but not wanting it.

Overall I think it was very, very good.

watched this and not very impressed, sorry

I found the harsh treatment of the boy upsetting because sadly that was what really happened in those days, so it's not just a make believe story.

I quite enjoyed it, just because it was a bit different.

But surely it's a true depiction of what happened in those days if you were left handed? This series is going to break my heart but it's the best thing I've seen for a long time.

I had been looking forward to watching this but found tonight's episode a bit disappointing as it wasn't quite what I had been expecting. As a left-handed person myself I could have wept at the punishment Bert received.

I hated seeing the cruelty too. I had paused it early on, so fast forwarded through those parts. The little boy has such expressive eyes.

What a load of softies we must be!

I must be getting soft because I had to turn it off after about 20 minutes of cruelty to the young boy. I know its only a story but it reminded me too much of my early schooldays. My brother was left handed (IS lefthanded) & was bullied mercilessly by the teachers. I got 6 of the best for not being able to recite the Lord's Prayer aged 8.

Big shame because the costumes, sets and buildings were beautifully accurately depicted, ditto the camera work.

Same here, gracesmum. I found it too harrowing after half an hour.

Finding the grimness of poor country life a bit hard to take - especially the little boy's cruel father and the evil teacher. Gave up at the boy being caned for being left-handed. When did I become so sensitive? I have a feeling it is since the birth of my grandsons - I could not imagine our little boys having to endure such hardship or cruelty!
(I do know "It's only acting" !!)

I am watching Foyles war. I was rather put off "The Village" by the very breathy rendition of "I vow to thee my country" on the trailer by the woman singing the hymn. It is not a tune that should be sung like Ella Fitzgerald sings "Santa baby". I have recorded it though.

Yes I'm looking forward to it too. Like both John sim and Maxine Peake.

Planning to watch this, sunflower. Looks like being a good one.