Watch The Norman Conquests

The Norman Conquests is a classic British comedy play that was adapted into a television miniseries in 1977, now available from Acorn Media. Written by Alan Ayckbourn, the play is set in a charming country house in Sussex and revolves around the hilarious exploits of a love triangle between Norman, his wife Ruth, and her sister Annie against the backdrop of a typically English weekend.

Norman is a charming and charismatic man who is married to Ruth, a humorless woman who is more enamored with her career than her husband. When the couple heads out of town for the weekend, Norman sets his sights on seducing Ruth's sister, Annie, who is staying behind to take care of their invalid mother.

The plot is divided into three separate acts, each titled after a different area of the house. Each act covers the same weekend from a different part of the house, but from a different character's perspective. The three different storylines involving various permutations of the three main characters intertwine in a web of misunderstandings, miscommunications, and mistaken identities, all of which lead to plenty of laughs.

The play's genius lies in its structure, which allows the audience to see the same set of events from three different vantage points, giving a unique perspective on the characters and their motivations. This clever narrative structure keeps the play fresh and engaging from start to finish, and elevates it beyond the typical romantic comedy.

The acting in The Norman Conquests is top-notch, with a talented cast that includes Tom Conti, Penelope Keith, and Richard Briers. Each actor imbues their character with a distinct personality and mannerisms that make them all memorable and lovable in their own ways. The comedic timing is also pitch-perfect, with each actor delivering their lines with a perfect blend of wit and physical comedy that keeps the laughs coming.

Along with the top-notch acting, the production values of the miniseries are also impressive. The country house setting is beautifully recreated and the costumes are period-appropriate, which adds to the authenticity of the comedic romp. The direction of the miniseries is also deft, with the camera work capturing the facial expressions and physical comedy of the actors in a way that enhances the humor.

Overall, The Norman Conquests from Acorn Media is a must-watch for fans of British comedy and romantic farces. It has all the hallmarks of classic British humor, including witty dialogue, physical comedy, and a charming setting. The structure of the play ensures that it remains engaging throughout, while the talented cast and high production values make it a memorable viewing experience.