Awesome Adaptations (45) A Bit of a Do

This meme celebrates an awesome adaptation related to a weekly category. Any format of adaptation (television series, film, web series, etc.) is acceptable as long as it is based in some form on a book. This meme is hosted by Alisa Selene at PictureMeReading. Check out her site and join in on the fun!

An Awesome Adaptation of Your Choice

Title: A Bit of a Do
Adapted from: A Bit of a Do by David Nobbs

I still haven't read the book of this mini series, but that's not for want of trying! When I was in London I did try to find a copy but with no luck, so I'm going to have to buy it on the interwebs soon.  I'm looking forward to reading it because I found the TV series based on the book to be so moving, funny and thought-provoking.  But because David Nobbs is known for stories that thoughtfully and humorously dwell on the nature of life, I think this series must have captured the book perfectly.

There is a large cast of characters - two families, one well off financially and the other of a poorer class are linked through the marriage of their children, and the clash that comes of it - because many of these people are already unhappy and find it difficult to relate to each other - creates such a funny, character-driven comedy of awkward situations and misunderstandings.  And quite a lot of poignant drama.  Each episode of the series revolves around some sort of party or gathering (or "do" as they say in England), with each party/episode picking up where we left off in the lives of the characters from the previous "do".  What I so adore about this series is the way all the characters are thoughtfully and meaningfully developed.  There are clear, complex character arcs within this flexible structure of a series of do's where these characters have to interact.  And the humor comes from their reluctance, forced interest, and social awkwardness.  And the cast consists of a great number of fantastic English character actors who are all so perfectly believable in their roles.  They truly elevate this series with the quality of their acting.

I don't think this series is for everyone - it is rather "English" in humor and subtle and character-driven.  The interest is in investment and the development of the character's lives and not in action.  But if this sounds intriguing to you, I would recommend giving it a watch because it so well done!