Watch Gormenghast

Gormenghast is a British television adaptation of the eponymous novel series by Mervyn Peake. It originally aired on BBC2 in 2000, and starred Warren Mitchell, Jonathan Rhys Meyers, and Celia Imrie among others. This gothic fantasy drama was set in a world that was entirely detached from our own, yet bore many similarities to it.

The show follows the life of Titus Groan (Rhys Meyers), the 77th Earl of Gormenghast, stationed in a castle bearing the same name. Titus is the heir to the Gormenghast throne, and is expected to uphold the traditions of his forefathers. But Titus isn't like other members of his family - he is adventurous, curious, and wants to discover the world beyond the castle's walls.

Titus is raised by his mother, Lady Gertrude (Imrie), and his father, Lord Sepulchrave (Mitchell). Lady Gertrude is a cruel, manipulative woman who wields immense power in the castle. Lord Sepulchrave, on the other hand, is a beaten-down man who feels trapped by the strictures of his position. He spends much of his time in his library, pouring over books, and mourning the death of his beloved sister, who passed away years ago. Lord Sepulchrave's sense of ennui only deepens when he is forced to wear a crown of thorns, symbolizing his ties to his family's legacy.

The show's first episode introduces us to the world of Gormenghast: the sweeping, dusty castle, full of secret passageways and hidden chambers. We also meet the "mangy-curs" - the castle's inhabitants who all have distinct personalities and oddities. There's Flay (Christopher Lee), the stoic head of Lord Sepulchrave's troops; Fuchsia (Neve McIntosh), Titus's eccentric older sister; and Prunesquallor (Ian Richardson), the castle's resident physician and conniving schemer.

Gormenghast, as a show, is an eerie, atmospheric experience. The gothic architecture of the castle, combined with the haunting score, set a mood of gloom and dread. Much of the story's power emerges from its sense of mystery and secrecy. The characters are surrounded by whispers of ancient events and long-standing traditions, but they are never quite sure what they mean. The show invites the audience to get lost in the labyrinthine corridors of Gormenghast, and decipher its many secrets.

At the heart of the show is the conflict between Titus's desire for freedom and his family's oppressive legacy. As Titus becomes more and more restless, he seeks out more and more hidden corners of the castle. But as he does so, he discovers more secrets and hidden machinations between his family members. Meanwhile, Lady Gertrude is determined to keep Titus in his place, molding him into a future earl that will carry out her designs.

Warren Mitchell brings a desperate, anguished quality to the role of Lord Sepulchrave. His character is perhaps the most tragic, given that he's clearly suffering from depression and suicidal thoughts. Mitchell is able to convey a great deal with very little dialogue, using his physical performances to demonstrate his character's inner feelings of hopelessness and dejection.

Rhys Meyers is charismatic and engaging as Titus, making the character a perfect vessel for the audience's curiosity. There is a sense of wonder in his performance, as he pushes back at the boundaries of Gormenghast. He's helped by a natural chemistry with the other actors, most notably Imrie, who provides a frosty, commanding presence as Lady Gertrude.

Gormenghast is a unique, compelling show that deserves a wider audience. While it can be challenging at times, its rewards are many - it's a show that rewards close attention and rewards viewers for engaging with its many mysteries. Fans of gothic literature and fantasy dramas will find much to enjoy here, as will anyone who revels in a story full of quirks and eccentricities. The show is unafraid to take risks and to make bold choices, making it a refreshing breath of fresh air in the world of television.