User Reviews

The sophisticated plots running though this show take a second seat to the amazing visual nature of the show. As the rich, entitled factions try to outdo one another, with the new and the old in conflict and hanging on for dear life, we are brought inside an almost sickening disregard for the people who have given so much to them. Russell is a man with little regard for anything but show, and he would sell out anyone to keep a little bit ahead. His wife is battling with the status quo and is starting to make a dent in it. At the center is the "new" Metropolitan Opera which will now allow those who have been snobbishly closed out by old money, to attend major works. Even if the only reason for going is to show off, it is one of the few places where they can crack the veneer. There is so much money. There is a conversation about simply buying palatial mansion without even thinking about the cost. It will be interesting to see how this can be sustained. We have seen that one slip can sink these ships within a fortnight.

A magical return for the wonderful Gilded Age and an exquisite episode as a reward for our patience! Every scene sparkled with decadence and luxury and the characters themselves seemed to leap from the screen with enthusiasm. This season has begun with a deeper dive into some of the characters - you could even be forgiven for feeling sorry for Oscar, surprising as it sounds. The episode progresses the comparisons between the various households including an intimate and heartbreaking storyline for Peggy Scott and her family. In addition to developed narratives, the wardrobe designers must be applauded for the incredible costumes which bring the Gilded Age to life!

I know that it's supposed to be soapy fun but the story line with the black characters is just hitting so wrong, knowing what was going on at that time just 20 years after the Civil War. Much of the wealth depicted was generated through slavery. Are we just glossing over that?

I'm also always comparing this to Downton Abbey, where here I feel like there are too many characters to keep track of. I sometimes want to research an actor and I don't even know where to start as I don't know their name in the show.

I still love the opulence and the art direction, but the story line just seems weak and too fractured. S2 E1 may be the last one I watch.