i remember watch this series when pb first air it in the u in the late 1970s and and i remember be fascinate by the story and the character . even at a young age i realize i be watch high caliber performance . i finally have get this series on dvd and be watch again . all of the rave review comment be on the mark . the collection of superior performance by so many fine actor in one series have probably not happen since it surely do not happen before . one can not credit derek jacobi enough for his brilliant yet subtle performance throughout . yet he be constantly equal by sian phillips ( the best and most memorable livia i have ever see . ) . i could list the actor name and go on and on about the high quality of their performance and but the best advice be to say represent buy or rent this and see it . more than once . repeatwed viewing draw you deeper into the story and uncover more detail with each viewing . even the low budget bbc set of the 70 be pleasant and appropriate . the production be superb and the directing be top notch . though with a big budget this could have be stag a an epic production with lot of added scenery etc . ( remember this be before cgi . ) and the closeness and theatre feel set actually make it more intimate and the viewer be bring right into the fray . high recommendation and accolade .