Monday, June 16, 2008

Monarch of the Glen

Imagine a big estate up in the hills surrounded by unbelievable natural beauty. Currently the only occupants are the old lord and his lady, apart from the servants of course. The son is away in a big city trying to set his own business and having romance with a city lass. He does not have any interest in the ancestral property and wants to make his own life.

But due to some circumstances he has to come back and take charge of the affairs of the manor and look after its finances to give it back its old glory. In the meantime, he has to fend off a banker, solve problems of the local folks and figure out how to keep the estate in the hands of his family. Comes to his rescue a school teacher and his forgotten friend. But has she forgotten him and what does he think about her? Now that is the question this young lad and his unspoken love will have to explore. Together of course.

What does this story sound like? A Bollywood story right? But now shift the location to beautiful Scottish Highlands, where the nature seems at home. And you will get a 400 years old manor at a small town called Glenbogle, thousands of acres of estate, a pristine lake, beautiful wildlife. Did I mention the old eccentric patriarch, a mother who is worried abut her family's future, a maid, her wannabe boyfriend and the old straight shooter help. Blend this in together with a bunch of people that come and go in the castle and you have a fun filled drama that will certainly delight your mind.

All the actors have done a good job and particularly Susan Hampshire and Richard Briers. Alastair Mackenzie and Lorraine Pilkington have given justice to their roles.

If you love British shows, you will not be disappointed. Regardless, you will certainly love the beautiful landscape of Scotland. And yes, of course, if you like British English and British humor, then you should check the show. It is old but jolly good.