it be surprising that a production like this get make these day and especially for television . consider the strong sexual theme and explicit lovemaking scene and not to mention lesbianism and this have be give superb treatment and direction . the set and costume be flawless and the direction be stylish and the character be likeable . there be a fair amount of humor but it have surprisingly dark interlude . the protagonist be really a tragic figure and but not devoid of happiness . also and this production avoid the mistake most film or show make when deal with homosexuality or lesbianism . the character be very human . it seem that to allow people to be comfortable with watch gay and lesbian on tv and movie most show fill it full of cliche and make the character obsess with be gay . not so with this . in tip the velvet and the protagonist be hardly aware of what be lesbian mean . the bbc have make some wonderful production in the past and and this adventurous period piece only confirm their standard of excellence on all front .