Plot: What’s it about?
In a time known as The Dublin Lockout, the working class of Ireland was trapped under the thumb of the industries, unable to improve their lot. Even the Catholic Church chose to side against the laborers and as a result, conditions for the workers lapsed even further than ever. Mary (Angela Harding) has just taken a position with the Bradshaw household, a family with immense wealth and no real interest in those outside their privileged lifestyle. She soon meets a young man known as Fitz (Bryan Murray), a foundry worker with a kind spirit. The two fall in love and begin to save to be wed, but employment problems often surface and he is left with no income on a regular basis. Even in the midst of such harsh circumstances, can the two find a way to make things work and what of the countless others in the same situation?
This is a rather extensive mini-series, running over six hours in duration, so is Strumpet City worth the sizable time investment? I have to be honest and while the series has some good moments, it is too inconsistent. The scope is wide, with several stories going at all times, but the narratives don’t always work as well as they should. Perhaps with a more narrow focus, the stories could have been more consistent, especially in regard to conclusions. If you spend six hours with a show, you want the final moments to be memorable and that isn’t the case here. On the other hand, the production values are quite good and while budget limitations are evident at times, the locations and costumes are impressive. Also of note are the performances, which stand solid across the board and help mask some of the story issues. Strumpet City has some positive elements in play, but because it is inconsistent, the most I can recommend is a rental.
Video: How does it look?
Strumpet City is presented in 1.78:1 anamorphic widescreen. This looks good for almost three decades old series shot on a modest budget. The image is clean and clear, with no serious to mention. You will see some softness, but that is almost always evident in releases of this kind. I blame the production methods, not this transfer. I’ve read reviews that claim the shots are cropped, which could be true, as the frame is a bit tight at times. But if cropping was used, it isn’t extreme and the widescreen aspect ratio seems to suit this material.
Audio: How does it sound?
Not much we can discuss here, a basic soundtrack that is just that, basic. The dialogue is clear and while the accents are thick, you should be able to decipher all the lines. As far as other elements, the music and sound effects come across well, but never stand out or make you take notice. But given the nature of the series, dynamic audio isn’t required. So not memorable, but this soundtrack covers all the needed bases.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This release includes some biographies and filmographies, as well as historical background on the material.
