Cracking start to the season! Love Rochefort as the new baddie, as do most of Twitter by the looks of it :D So happy that the show is finally back, and can't wait to hear what you all thought of it.
Wow, can't believe we have finally reached "the other side," my friends. Here are a few of my thoughts.
Loved the music. From the very first scene. Also, the opening credits and theme might (Just might!) have been the best part of the whole show. Haha.
Wow, Anne recovers nicely. When my little one is born this summer, I will let you know if I look that amazing an hour later. Touching scene with Louis.
Speaking of...you have to really feel for Louis. He tried to find a good counselor. What an interesting hint of things to come with Treville! So good to see him back as well.
I LOVED the looks on Constance's face during her scene with Anne. Such surprised and vulnerability. Anne certainly is a trusting person. She knows nothing of Constance. However, Constance is one to be trusted, so she is in good hands.
I didn't like the dream scene. Felt a bit forced and unnecessary. Didn't enjoy it.
Loved seeing more of Bonacieux and his thoughts on things.
Love love love Rochefort. If he continues on his killing spree, however, there will be no one left in France.
I really enjoyed and liked Lucie. She was lovely and bright and not annoying at all.
Anne doesn't seem to be too "in love" with Rochefort. Just friendly.
While, I find the last scene with Constagnan to be a good one, it felt oddly placed to me. First, I didn't find it fair at all for him to go on the offensive with her when he should be the one embarrassed. I also felt that all the things said between them could have used another conversation or two leading up to that. How they felt about her position just sort of bubbled up all of a sudden. While it was good to hear her validate all the things we have been talking about here on this site, they never talked about it all before. Just felt odd. Would have felt better placed to me if they had a talk at the end of the last series or if this came later. Lovely scene though. Tamla is wonderful.
Marguerite is lovely!!!
The moment concerning Adele was very poignant to me as it almost seemed as if Aramis forgot about her along with the writers and the audience. Very well acted. I really felt for Aramis....as if he realized he should have been more concerned and looked in the matter more.
Cannot waaaaaaiiitttttt for next week! Louis looks so hilarious, I may burst from laughter. Cannot wait to see his interaction with Luke.
Loved it! So glad Aramis finally found about Adele and managed to get at least a glimpse of his son. Plus Marc Warren was brilliant. I already want more! Can't wait til next week..
I wasn't sure about the change of tone to begin with, like with Atlantis, I wondered for a bit whether the tone had gone too far the other way but by the time Rochefort said his final lines, I was won round. I really like that he's going to be a "snake" in the new series..
Captain Treville being the first target of Louis's insecurity was a real surprise..
I didn't think Aramis would learn about Adelle this early on..
I wonder whether any of the Musketeers will become a bit more trusting of Rochefort or not, especially after Athos seemed to warm to him just a touch.
Great to see Constance finally occupy a position in the palace, where she needed to be in the first place.. And she needs to make her decision about D'Artagnan and her marriage..
Loved the action sequences, especially Dart in the water.. He also had nice scenes with Lucia, he was curious about her but without being overtly interested in her.
The Athos handshake was a great scene for us viewers who knew the truth already. Nicely acted. Rochefort as conniving snake is going to surprise Athos. I wonder when they do find out....or if they become even more trusting of him until then.
Lovely review of the episode Sunny, I agree with most of what you say. Rochefort is a hit by the looks of it, I'm so glad as I do think he's wonderful in the role! Poor, poor Adele, that was a great scene wasn't it. It came completely out of the blue when I saw it in the screening, I swear I had a lump in my throat! After last season of wanting Aramis to find out every single ruddy week and being disappointed again and again, he finally found out! That scene made it all completely worth while too, as you say his realisation that he should have done more himself, and the way it linked to his plotline this year made it work well.
I don't think D'Artagnan needed to be embarassed about his kiss with Lucia, although I do agree that his and Constance's conversation at the garrison felt a bit rushed and forced - a bit like Ninon's equality speeches in the last series. I suppose D'Artagnan's embarassment was fuelling his emotion.
I loved how they tied in the Adele scene to Isabelle and the problems he is going to have with his son. What exactly did the Cardinal know, and who did he tell?? He isn't going to have an easy time of it this year methinks!
Oh dear....I wrote a "review." hahaha. I really didn't realize how long it was until I hit post!
The sad part is, Aramis would have still been way too late to save her even if he had tried to find out what happened. But he will never know that so he will just live with guilt. I found his way of saying "truly loved" to maybe be a hint of things to come with Marguerite?? Maybe he doesn't truly love her at all in the end? Either way, they make a handsome handsome couple.
I agree with you. He didn't need to be. I didn't like the way I phrased it as I wrote it. I meant really that we as viewers were already choosing sides! Ha. And the writers knew that and put him on the offensive instead of the defensive. Interesting move.
I guess I'm wondering whether Adrian Hodges is following tradition when it comes to D'Artagnan being the biggest pain-in-the-butt as far as Rochefort is concerned. Sandi might already know having seen a couple of episodes now.
The weight on Treville is going to be great this season I think. Turning down Louis like that, and this intrigue with Porthos' father and their past together is going to torture him a little I think. But he was right, he is a soldier at the end of the day, he isn't really best positioned to advise the king....though now Rochefort has that job we can only wonder how bad things will really get!
It was definitely worth the wait! Marc Warren is awesome as Rochefort and I can't wait to see more of him. I do agree with you about the last scene with Constagnan - it did feel a bit strange to me, although I think I need to watch again before I pass judgement.
Unfortunately, my SkyBox failed to record much to my annoyance but thankfully we have iPlayer to the rescue.
Next week's episode is going to be epic - Ryan is hilarious!
I liked that handshake too, I don't think either of them particularly trust each other though, hence the title of the episode and why I used it as the header photo in my preview. I can see the two of them bashing heads a lot this season, Athos ain't no fool and knows that you have to keep your enemies closer than your friends I think ;)
Hmm, it's not something that has come up in the episodes I've seen so far. My impression from this episode is that Athos is the one that has the most history with him, and was the one that sussed him out, with the two fake out shooting incidents. But I guess time will tell.
I felt really torn whilst watching it. On one hand, Tamla was so wonderful in it and it was definitely a conversation that they needed to have. On the other hand, it just felt way to early...But I felt cheated when the writers didn't give them time at the end of 1.10 to discuss what truly happened in 1.08. So that might have also made this scene feel rushed to me. At least 8 months has passed.....he is just asking her now? I also had that thought. However, I did have a "bravo, Constance" moment too as I felt she truly voiced all of the realistic and logical and social reasons for her choices.
I think Hugo Speer did a superb job as Treville - you can see how good an actor he is. It is definitely going to weigh down heavily on him. It will be interesting to see what impact this is all going to have on him!
Hehe, no worries at all, it's great to read exactly what people think of an episode! We have Justyna who will be reviewing the episodes a few days after they air this year too, she does a great job on her reviews so I'm really looking forward to what she thinks of this one too. So keep an eye out for a post from her too :)
I was surprised to see her already at court as I was expecting an introduction to her. But I guess they didn't want it to seem as if all of Anne's friends are new. Either way, her brief scene made me attached to her already. She is quite lovely and charming.
Was it just me, or did his hair change from his first scene to his second? Ha. By the end of the episode, he seemed to look like he did last series where the first scene, I thought he looked different.
Yes, like Tom he can say so much without the need for words. It's a gift! I really felt for him as he stood there at the end there listening to the four of them below in the garrison :(
Yeah same! It's good that she was mentioned and not forgotten as that does seem to happen with a lot of shows, though I didn't know Athos knew about Isabelle because he didn't react much at the time. Though I like the idea that Aramis confided in him about it off screen.
And yeah I think things might get a lot worse for him and I know it's bad but I'm looking forward to some good Aramis angst! Haha. I just hope we see him interact with the queen soon!
I do enjoy the Aramis/Athos relationship, the look he gave him after he waved off Marguerite and the Dauphin was classic! I do wonder when the other two will find out about the situation though, and how much of a problem withholding such a secret will cause amongst the unit?
You're right about those looks on Constance's face - I did love that scene between Anne and Constance. I am really looking forward to their interaction this season. They are both superb actresses.
How often is Bonacieux going to see his wife? He must feel quite cheated now that he won't see very much of her and also will be extremely curious about D'Artagnan's involvement in getting her the job! I really want to see him on Team Rochefort - that will make life interesting for Constagnan!
Yeah I love a good bromance, which is probably why adore this show! Haha. Yess I'm thinking there might be something that forces them to tell Porthos and D'Artagnan or that they might guess it if they see Aramis with the Dauphin. Aramis is going to be affected by Adele and not being able to see Anne or his son so I'm sure they'll get suspicious. Especially Porthos who he is close with.
I agree with Sunnty about the daydream. I know they're making it more raunchy but at least make it believable. I was just thinking 'Ermmmm, well that never happened...'
And enough of the nudity already. I like this as a family show. I guess though you would drop your clothes if you didn't know there was anyone else there... Hmmm
However, I don't mind topless musketeers :D Especially Athos and Aramis! <3
Really enjoyed the episode. There was so much to love. Porthos I just love him! Athos, as Sandi said, he never seemed more like a born leader. D'Artagnan's athleticism was incredible....as was his stamina according to Constance!😉 Not that much Aramis but what we got was great.Primarily, though Rochefort just ate up the screen in every scene he was in. Much to my absolute astonishment, I actually liked Lucie. She was gutsy and spirited. I really didn't like that we were left with no clue as to the fate of De Foix. Are we simply to assume he died? He was a terrific character and Dominic Mafham did a great job. Are we also to assume that post his confrontation with Constance, Lucie ceased to be a viable proposition for him. She did seem to push him away slightly. The conversation between D'Artagnan and Constance was very necessary but I agree that the placement of the conversation was odd. I did like her assertiveness in the scene though and Tamla was marvellous, as indeed was Luke. You really felt both their frustration. Still not convinced by the dream sequence. I agree with Sunny that it felt unnecessary and I'm not really sure that as a Constagnan fan I'm grateful for it. I know they love each other. What I'd like to see is them expressing that love in the context of the drama. I don't really want to be pandered to. Overall though, a cracking start with a lot of ominous portent. Bring on epidside two.
It was a strong start and Rochefort is a wonderful addition and clearly a dangerous adversary for the boys. I am glad Aramis has finally found out about Adele it was not a nice way and the Cardinal still has a reach but it was very well acted which was particularly helped by the chemistry between Athos and Aramis. And a very interesting revelation regarding Porthos so all in all it was just fantastic to have the show and boys back.
I think the daydream might have worked better had it lasted a bit longer and started with the lovers actually falling into bed, rather than during mid-passion. But generally, because sex has a realistic place in a passionate relationship, I didn't have a problem with it.
Whilst I think that conversation was a bit forced in terms of writing, Constance is trying to get D'Artagnan off her back over leaving Bonacieux and needed to spell out to him the reality of her situation..
eh,, I think the whole "without my husband I'll be shamed & forced to live on the streets" monologue should have been enough to convince D'Art of her situation. I think D'Art acted like a sulky brat though
I didn't dislike it due to sex. I think it might have been because it was our first scene with Constance...I felt she deserved better intro to series 2 than that. But that is me loving Constance for so many reasons and wanting more for her than being a love interest.
That's right! Pandering. You described what I felt exactly. I wouldn't have minded her remembering something that actually happened. I felt like it had no place other than "food for the shippers."
This was a wonderful start to season 2. So many new things set up and a new super villain. Each character gets some new challenges thrown his way - I love how they do that and how they make you feel for each and every one of them. Truly a great show!
I think he wouldn't have appeared that way if they had better lead up to that conversation. As I said below, one or two previous chats about their situation would have made that scene seem much better all around. His emotion and opinions would have been more understandable and her sudden outburst would seem more fitting.
My mum said something that won't be popular - she thinks Lucia had more chemistry with D'Artagnan than Constance.. She sort of likes Constance but doesn't think she's feisty enough for the "handsome, young and feisty Musketeer."
At some point, has Constance got to decide whether she wants to attempt the dream or not?
If someone was not happy with the 'raunchy dream scene' they certainly shouldn't be happy about the amount of people killed! Surely two people in love (and there was nothing really explicit here)are better to watch than seeing somebody's throat cut with a knife?
If Constance wasn't having naughty dreams about D'Artagnan, I'd tell her to stay with her husband and not risk the security she has with him.. :)
To be fair to Adrian, he's trying to portray a passionate affair - or the beginnings of one - which sometimes means including overt sexuality. I honestly didn't have a problem with it, Constance can't be with the man she loves, all she can do is dream - it's realistic.
I see your point. I didn't have anything against the actual scene content. I just thought it could have been done a little different. They didn't seem comfortable. Maybe it's just me :)
On the basis of tonight, I'd agree with your Mum. I think we'll see a build up in the chemistry over the next few weeks though. Calling her a coward was tough and certainly not true. She's practical and realistic and didn't speak one word of a lie. If she chose him she'd face ruin and potentially a life of destitution. It's whether she loves him enough to run that substantial risk. You could see that the minute he called her a coward and hurt her, it obviously hurt him. Interestingly, the Queen appeared to instantly dislike Bonacieux and I think she also realised that there might be more to D'Art's recommendation than merely a bit of personnel advice.😄
You might be right :) but I suppose Adrian had to fit a heck of a lot into episode 1 - especially Rochefort 's introduction - and if he'd had more time, Constance's scenes might have come across a little better.
Haha, it wasn't that bad. I don't even care that much really. I just looked forward to her scenes and their scenes quite a bit and felt a bit disappointed in some aspects. My expectations were a bit high though after all of our ideas and speculations...
I think the coward comment was the last nail in the coffin in making that scene seem a bit premature to me. The first time they discuss her marriage, he calls her a coward? Just a bit rushed. I feel like that, even though it would be still be a low blow, would be more suited to a later conversation.
I actually had the thought that she would have made a nice addition if there had been no Constance. Oops. =)
Which kind of goes back to my comment from last week. He wouldn't be the d'Artagnan we know and love if he became enamored with a complete annoying brat.
One of the shows minor faults is that sometimes, there's so much going on, that some characters end up being neglected and getting scenes that aren't really long enough.
It's not as bad as Downton Abbey in this area - Adrian balances things quite well - but sometimes, characters and building-relationships could have done with a few more minutes of screentime.
I kind of agree with you about OUAT, i think that the actors portraying the snow queen, Elsa and Anna have done a fantastic job. i liked how well they all seemed to blend with the cast. However i thought that the Frozen storyline as whole was just okay, not as good as i hoped it would be.
I think a good example of this is that there are four leads! While I think Adrian does this well, I sometimes find that he seems to be making sure each one gets an equal amount of lines in a scene when they are all together. Nothing wrong with this, but sometimes I find it a bit silly how each one gets a turn speaking before they start over with the first speaker and take turns again.
It was a jammed packed opener, so much going on! It does look like all of them are going to have troubles this year, even the poor innocent Dauphin going by the evil glint in that priest's eye as he taunted Aramis. I can't wait to see how it all pans out over the season.
I had no problem with the nudity, it's not a family show as it goes out after the watershed and it wasn't gratuitous or indulgent in anyway I thought. If d'Artagnan hadn't of intervened or been embarrassed by the situation then I would probably have had more of an issue with it. Besides, it wasn't as if they didn't have the man in the scene completely dressed like they do in many other shows that show full frontal female nudity in scenes. He was topless and soaking wet, which did at least try to address the balance somewhat I feel.
It felt more romanticised than sexual to me, which feels right for the couple from my point of view. Constance does have a very realistic view of the situation, which the end of the episode showed, but that was her carefree, wishful thoughts. Not so much about sex as such, just being with him.
Honestly, so did I. In some ways it was like watching Constance series one, embodied in Lucie and a somewhat strange, rather hollow creature that I didn't really recognise, as Constance series two. Maybe she's still exhausted from all that fantasy sex.😜 I just really hope we're not going to have the moping about for too long. to be honest, it was a bit draining.
I'm going to be unpopular too and have to admit that I kinda liked the chemistry between Lucie and d'Artagnan too, but only as a one off episode fling.
I really liked that scene, I hope this doesn't make me unpopular around here! We are still in the process of seeing d'Artagnan mature, at present he's still naive, hot headed and doesn't think things through before he opens that gob of his! This is one of the things I adore about this version of the show, we are seeing the characters grow, especially the young Gascon.
He knew as soon as those words left his mouth that they were the wrong thing to say, that Constance was right, he's just impatient. Seeing him, and the others, learn lessons is what makes this show interesting to me.
I really did. I mentioned in a comment below that it was as though I was watching Constance series one in Lucie. Gutsy, fun and energetic and then there was Constance series two. Sullen, moping about, depressed and depressing. Kicked in the teeth by both of the men in her life. Called a donkey and a coward. Brilliant.
I think the moment it was out if his mouth and he saw her beautifully played reaction (fabulous Tamla, as always), he felt like crap. He's going to be desperate to walk that back and perhaps when she shows her courage later in the series, he'll be begging for her forgiveness.
Lol yes! It was like the oh so subtle conversation Anne and Aramis had about the pregnancy at the end of S1, with her ladies in waiting just behind her. Good thing they aren't as clever as the Cardinal at reading between the lines!
Again, I saw this as d'Artagnan assuming that Constance would be immediately grateful for the distance it gave her from her husband without thinking things through fully. He has a big heart in him, but still needs time to learn the ways of the world, especially the way things look from outside his point of view. It will come time, it's something everyone has to learn after all. This season will have some big lessons for him I think.
Athos had so much faith in young d'Artagnan to send him ahead during the mission, especially with the added 'kill if needs be' clause attached. That was great to see I thought.
I just knew that the rather dismal reporting we had back in the summer of 'oh the Cardinal's dead and we've moved on' was going to be a quote taken completely out of context. There's no way they would have done that. He knew too much, and the crew obviously care about the show and the fans far too much to fob them off like that. I think they've been very clever at killing him off but still having what, and who, he knew out there to finish off his dirty work!
I too love the Athos/Aramis chemistry, the two of them can be very alike at times. I do also love Aramis with Porthos too though, so I hope the two of them have some fun times this season in amongst all the family woes.
Exactly this! He should be thanking his lucky stars that at least his mistakes aren't getting her killed like Isabella or Adele...well, so far anyway, let's hope Rochefort doesn't cotton on!! He is the youngest of the four by some margin, and so obviously will have a bit more to learn, but that is why the novels are generally known as the d'Artagnan Tales, they are his coming of age story. If he was a wise man now, saying the right things, there wouldn't be any room for him to grow as a character.
That scene for me was perfect, sorry if Constagnan fans don't see it the way I did. I thought it had bags of passion from the both of them, and so much more chemistry between them than I have felt before. You can just tell that they *will* work this out, this is the beginning of the arc that the two of them will work through to end up in the daydream reality that Constance saw at the start of the episode. The two actors were amazing in it, just superb!
Oh, I loved the scene and the acting. I did feel it as a conversation was quite vital for them. However, I felt as if they were arguing as if they had argued several times and we missed it. Especially when she accused him of never thinking of her situation....well, according to "on screen" she never really gave him a chance to talk to her about it. She kicked him in out twice (1.08, 1.10). LOL. I just wish we had a few chats leading up to it. But yes, it was a lovely scene.
I replied below about how I do like the scene, so I won't repeat myself here. But you bring up a good point about it showing d'Artagnan's immaturity and youthfulness. Constance, in a way, is far ahead of him in that regard.
I think the handled it well. The funeral was immediate and the replacement baddie was brilliant. Everyone was over Capaldi and his "death" by Rochefort's second scene. Ha.
Now, I'm to bed!! Finally! Good night all, it's been fun!
It's so great to have it back again! So much to love about it! I liked how they didn't treat d'Artagnan like a newbie anymore who needed babysitting and Rochefort is a true psychopath, this'll be fun
Because I'm emotionally invested in Constagnan, that scene wasn't about sex to me but about Constance wanting to be with the man she loves and sadly, dreaming is the only way she can do that right now...
I think it would be unrealistic if D'Artagnan's youthful frustrations over Constance didn't result in him saying things that he doesn't mean. He knows Constance is a clever woman but in that moment - after being caught kissing another woman ( even though he was within his rights to do so, considering Constance had pushed him away earlier ) - his emotions overruled his head.
After watching again on iPlayer last night (couldn't help myself), I found I enjoyed the episode even more than the first time. I'd missed quite a few things when I watched it live - probably due to those good looking men in leather - and it helped me to appreciate the Constagnan scenes more. I think we have to remember that d'Artagnan is a young, hot headed man who wears his heart on his sleeve and that is just what we saw in that episode. BTW, I think both Tamla and Luke's acting was superb in this episode too!
I also didn't mind the dream scene. Whilst it did seem rushed and unnecessary at first, I didn't mind it the second time around, as it helped to show that Constance has strong and passionate feelings for d'Artagnan too. I think that was important for newbies to the show.
I'm going to enjoy very much the Constagnan rollercoaster this year, probably even more than I did last year!
It looks like it's a success overall with those who did tune in, I've not seen a great deal of criticism for it. It only got 3.64 million in the overnights which isn't brilliant, people choosing Benidorm over it on ITV it seems. I did see a lot of people moaning about that on Twitter though, so hopefully things will slowly slide the other way due to the acclaim Marc Warren is creating! Plus, we need to get those iPlayer views up, show the BBC how popular it really is ;)
I get you mean, but I don't mind missing any previous arguments, seeing them would have made this one too repetitive for me I think. The passion in this one, alone with the script, made any history of the past six months obvious, and I like that we can read between the lines without having to see everything that happens. The same with the other two arc set up after them too - Porthos/Treville & Aramis/the Cardinal's reach. The episode only needed to give me the hints for now after all that previous action, I'm reassured that the following nine episodes will go on to tell me the story. Perhaps that's just the non-shipper in me though, I dunno. As a general viewer, it worked perfectly as a set up of what's to come.
Agree about Constance being the mature one of the two, and he'll learn a lot from her, and she from him I think too. I also agree that being caught in the act of kissing Lucie put him on the back foot, he felt on the offensive, almost like "I wouldn't being doing this if it wasn't for you". That may be true, but he shouldn't off load that on to her, and I think he realised that as soon as she walked away.
He's an emotional guy, at work he can just about keep that under control - even though his hand still shook as he was about to shoot de Foix, he would have carried his orders out. But Constance makes him lose that composure still, it's a big lesson to learn in life, but he'll get there!
I'll admit I was disappointed when I saw that figure but as you say - and as Adrian said in his Geek interview - the timeshift / consolidated viewing figures will be just as important. I noticed a number of people on twitter say that they were having to choose between Musketeers and Benidorm and on top of that, a few people didn't even know Musketeers was on last night - they thought it was going out on Sunday.
That seems to be the biggest problem, people assuming it would be on Sunday again I think. I dunno why people would choose to watch the channel with adverts and record the ad free one though, that sounds backwards to me, lol. I just hope that things pick up from next weeks once the holidays are over properly...
I'm pushing the iPlayer link, and mailing/tweeting the BBC on Twitter at present too. The fans are great at getting the word round, so hopefully the timeshift will be good *fingers crossed*
Not great at all. They'll probably add another 1-1.5 million to that though through time shift etc. I really would have liked to have seen it up above 4 million though for a series opener. I'm goung to keep the faith though that with international sales etc that we may still be ok. The expectations for the timeslot also have to be considered.
Really hope that they portray Rochefort's character well... He has a tough hole to fill (the tweet from the BBC1's account was delightful, though, ahahah!).
I liked it! Favourite part was probably the scene with Aramis and the Cardinal-Beyond-The-Grave. I'm so glad to have my (b)romantic guilty pleasure back! :-)
I so very, very nearly went with that for Scene of the Week on the site tomorrow, in truth there were three scenes that I had trouble choosing between! I did get a lump in my throat during that one though, the way Adele was never referred to again last year did feel a bit like a kick in the teeth for her character.
But all is forgiven, now it is causing this heartache for Aramis...it is a funny old way us fans see the word sometimes isn't it. Would be terrible in real life, but as long as it's causing drama for characters we love it's completely acceptable and we'll have more of that please!! Especially if it includes more of Athos holding back angry Aramis from hurting the bad priest man and other brotherhood stuff like that :D Lol.
Hopefully the show can perform a minor miracle, and perhaps add a few viewers rather than lose them the second week. Bit ambitious perhaps, but I like to aim big, lol.
Yay, it's up four places, which ain't too shabby :) I've written a letter which next week to the BBC saying how awesome to have it back too. Pulling out all the stops, lol.
I'm guessing Porthos' darker side will come from finding out his identity, and whatever that has to do with Treville and his past. I think we could see him really lose it here, being lied to by his Captain for so long, and what if he finds out about Athos/Aramis holding back here too. IT's even possible that d'Artagnan could keep any affair with Constance secret in order to not to tarnish her public persona, so that could make everyone Porthos trusts lying to him. That will change him a lot I think :(
I'm totallywith you on this Helen. That scene at the Garrison last night is now one of my favourite scenes between Constagnan. In terms of evolving relationship, it feels much more "grown up". As someone who loves angst, I'm already incredibly excited to see where this all goes.
I'm about to watch it again doing the ironing! There is not much else on TV tonight, so rather looking forward to it! :)
Do you think writing to the BBC will help? Is there an email address I could write to also? We so need a season 3 and I really do think that the poor ratings are to do with the promotion of the series and its placement on a Friday, rather than people not wanting to watch it. Got my hubby to watch it last night and he thoroughly enjoyed it also!
He's a very good actor, in my opinion. He was the one who catched my attention right from the beginning, as long as Capaldi. Of course, his appearance on Utopia, Third Star, etc have raised my respect and my interest in him! :)
I can't understand why people would watch a show with ad breaks rather than one without. I always record the shows with the ad breaks, so I can fast forward and skip the ads as I can't stand them. Hopefully, next week's figures will be much, much better with people returning from holidays.
Really interesting. I think Porthos is really going to be traumatised by events this year. He's such a physically strong man that sometimes it's easy to overlook how devoted he is emotionally to his brother Musketeers. He's likely to feel very confused and betrayed. It would be interesting to see those fractures emerging at a time when they really need to work as a team, more so than ever before, to defeat a lethal and clever foe.
Letting them know that you are appreciating it is vital imo, as is saying you want more of it. Complaining too much about it isn't as helpful, though I did say that I thought it was under promoted. Here's the Contact the BBC page, it has a number of ways you can contact them on it :)
Exactly right. Since leaving the slums, soldiering has become his family, completely and utterly. If he loses the ability to put all his trust in them, where does that leave him... He's gonna be lower than he was than Bonnaire tricked him isn't he :(( Sad Porthos makes me just wanna hug him tbh!
I think they have cast them all very well, so suited to the characters from the books and very talented in their own ways. I have a soft spot for all of them really in their own way :)
So I am pretty new to the show. I recently binged it all after Christmas and now I am full on obsessed! I really enjoyed the new episode. I have to admit I do miss the Cardinal but I am liking what Rochefort brings forth. I am not that great at the whole speculation thing but I LOVE reading all of the comments on these posts and the people here are so good at theorizing. I have been up quite late the past couple of nights just reading comments from the different musketeer spoiler tv posts haha. I'm just getting caught up on all things musketeers =D
I do have one question that hopefully someone could help me out with. I'm from Canada and I watch a lot of American TV so I am pretty familiar with the ratings and renewal system in the United States. For The Musketeers and BBC One I am curious as to how a renewal for series 3 would be possible. I know ratings count but for The Musketeers but what weekly numbers did they typically get in series one and when did they get renewed last year?
Also yes I do not live in the UK so I can't really help out with ratings :( The show airs here in Canada (at least it did last season) but I don't believe it was ever given a date for a season 2 return.
Hi Julia, welcome to the site. Wow, you read through all our theories? That must have taken some time to do, we can babble a lot I'm afraid :o I do wonder how much we will get right, and how far off the mark some of it will be, lol.
We have a pretty good database here for every show on the site, here's a link to The Musketeer bit - http://stvplus.com/show/385/The-Musketeers As you can see it started off very strong, but then dipped quite low towards the end, but most shows do lose a million or two anyway. Last night's overnight was 3.64 million, not brilliant but there will be at least one and half million to add to that in a weeks time after the catch up figures are added to it, for the final figure. So that's the negative out of the way.
The positive is it's now sold in 140 countries across the world, the second biggest drama that the BBC sell after Doctor Who. So on that front it is doing spectacularly well. The fans have grown in size over this last year by quite a lot. I was looking at some data for the site this morning and going by our figures the fan base has grown steadily, and considerably since August. This matches up with my anecdotal experience on social media too.
They are also very vocal and passionate about the program, which is what the show needs. BARB/Nielson can only measure the figures of people who have the equipment in their homes. Fans can help by watching iPlayer (if the can access the UK site) and contacting the BBC and/or their own broadcaster and letting them know how much they enjoy the show. American fans were very successful last year in convincing BBC America to bring forward the date of S2 to January for example, so voices can be heard :)
Hello! Thanks for the welcome Sandi :) and yes, I do read pretty much all of the theories. There is quite an abundance of them but I enjoy it!
Also thanks again for the database link! I shall bookmark it on my laptop. Looking at the rating charts are very helpful. And wow, I did not realize how big the show is in terms of its ratings and its international audience. That's a lot of places it's been sold to and second biggest to Doctor Who?! That impresses me for whatever reason lol.
The Musketeers did air on showcase last year. But like I said no Canadian date/confirmation of it ever coming back to Canadian TV in the first place. Would I tweet them about it? Not sure how I would go about making my voice heard.
We're hoping those positives will help the show, thankfully as the BBC doesn't show adverts it is a little different to just about any other channel, so that does help!
Yes, tweeting them may help, though it can get lost in amongst general tweets if there aren't many people doing it perhaps. This is the email for their Viewer Relations Department, which might be able to advise when S2 would be on - feedback@showcase.ca Their Facebook page also looks promising as they seem to answer people on there occasionally too.
I should have said this last night but one of my absolute favourite moments in the episode was when Athos, Aramis and Porthos distracted Bonacieux so that D'Artagnan could have a moment with Constance (alas a less than successful one). They even have each other's backs when it comes to romance. Porthos' little wink was so sweet.☺️
Haha yes, like any of the would be taking his fashion advice and wear anything but the leather uniform anyway. Porthos said he wasn't comfortable in anything else when they were changing back out of the Spanish prison uniforms - and if you watch closely before that you can see him pulling at it at various points, showing his discomfort :) lol
It's just so sweet that they all know how crazy he is about Constance and clearly want their "brother" to be happy. when you watch it back, you actually see Aramis looking back up the stairs with a smile at D'Artagnan, when he see Constance. Come to think of it, the main problem with a Constagnan wedding might not be waiting for Bonacieux to peg it, it might be picking a best man.😄
It's also worth sayng that you can't underestimate the power of the lead in show. The Musketeers is saddled (if you'll pardon the pun) with Room 101. A tired series long past it's sell by date. Benidorm on the other hand, has Coronation Street, the most popular soap on British television.
Definitely, a very sweet moment! The way they come round the corner and see Constance and Bonacieux. I just love the brotherhood - it is so evident that these four men are friends both on and off screen. :)
We're were just saying how difficult it will be to knock last night's eppy of EE off the top, that would be a mammoth task I think seeing what happened in it XD Keeping The Musketeers up there though is just as important though, as with the following episodes. I'm very proud of the fans today :D
Have the BBC ever moved a show to a different day/time mid-season? I am just wondering whether they would consider moving it to another day if they thought that it would draw in more viewers in a different slot. However, that could potentially be detrimental as well I suppose.
Hello!! My name is Michelle and I am an avid reader of ALL of your posts for quite a while now!! Several times my fingers have hovered over the keyboard to post comments but chickened out at the last minute! This time I have taken the bull by the horns and signed up!! I am a HUGE Musketeer fan and have to say that D'artagnan/Constance are my favs followed by the boys equally after that....... Really looking forward to Season 2 and think Marc Warren is really going to be an awesome 'baddie'!! Can't wait for Friday evenings now.... Looking forward to chatting to you all :-)
Welcome Michelle! I was exactly like you last year. I kept coming back to read all the posts but hesitated before signing up to the forum but I am very glad I did now. It is a terrific show and it is a really great place to share our thoughts with fellow fans. :)
Hi Michelle, welcome to the site. I'm really glad that you've taken the plunge and joined us, we always love to hear from new fans :)
I'm glad that people have taken to Rochefort so fast, I did immediately but I am a huge fan of Marc anyway so it was inevitable I guess. There was some concerned about the loss of Capaldi from some quarters, and some were not sure that anyone could fill his boots, so to speak. But he seems to have pulled it off pretty much from the get go with most people, he is deliciously evil! I kinda do have a bit of a soft spot for the baddies this year I'm afraid - in a love to hate way of course, the Musketeers still have to win the day ;)
Welcome Michelle!😄 Great to have you on board and to have another Constagnan fan to chat to. Love to hear the views of all fellow fans. This is a great spot for a chat.
I'm not sure that's something they would do, unless the scheduling clashed with a major event. Even then, they usually legislate for that. I think moving it would also run the risk of sending out the wrong signals. Hopefully with iPlayer views and the BBC Three repeat, the numbers will rise to a more respectable figure. Almost more than the prospect of another series, I'd really like to see the cast and crew rewarded for their efforts and enthusiasm.
You know part of what really worked for me about the scene was that we saw that these two fight with as much passion as they make love. It was a clever juxtaposition. You knew by the end of that scene that it wasn't remotely over for these two and that there is so much more to come. They're tearing each other apart at the moment but when the come back together again, as they will, it'll be even more explosive.
Hi! Need some help here. For those of us who are in the US and want to view the eps before Jan. 17th, Sandi posted a way for us to view on iPlayer through Google Chrome. I can't find that post...could someone point me to it? I'm headed to Africa in two days and want to be able to watch while gone. Thanks so much!!
It's usually 7 days for consolidated. Then the remaining iPlayer stats come out 3-4 weeks into the month following TX as they are done on a monthly basis.
I thought the pacing was pretty good for a set up episode, the introduction of the three arcs probably being the only fumble, it did drag the ending out a little there. I have to ask though, you thought the zip wire was underwhelming?
Cheers for this hun, I don't think you can embed in the comments, which is why the code looks odd. I have grabbed it and will pop it in the episode post though :)
Episode 1 consolidated at 4.9 million, which again is dissapointing :( and if it sticks around that level, is it enough to get us that third series? Ripper Street was initially canceled with viewing figures around that level..
Episode 1 is still being played on IPlayer and there's been a few tweets from people who have only just discovered the show and are loving it, so who knows which way the BBC will go..
I was just going to post the figures too. 1.6m isn't bad at all for time shift, there's the iPlayer stats to add to that too yet which will be another million or so I should think.
It could be better obviously, but the drop off hasn't happened this week, and internationally it's strong. So we have to keep our hopes up, and keep supporting it so our voices are heard at this point :)
Ah, now that's interesting. As you say, 1.6 really isn't bad for time shift. With another potential million for iPlayer, it starts to look pretty healthy. I don't think Ripoer Street would have been doing those kind of numbers and certainly wouldn't have had the international dimension. Adrian mentioned that it was second only to Doctor Who in terms of international sales, which is amazing. They'll probably also weigh audience demographics for the series, as well as expectations for the time slot. I still think they should never have moved them from Sunday night. If they'd still been there, I'm confident you could have added another million to the overnight figure alone. In the finest tradition of The Musketeers, we fight on. I'm still confident that we'll get a third series.
Just been looking into it and Ripper Street were doing 1-1.2mish on catch up, and hemorrhaging viewers on a weekly basis. Here's their figures, pre and post catch up before S2 was cancelled
5.10 - 6.45 4.35 - 5.48 3.97 - 5.03 3.03 - 4.39 (less than, no figure is known as it was too low to register) 3.10 - 4.27 Then it dropped to lower than 4.18 consolidated.
So yeah, they started out higher, but dropped a lot and ended up lower by half way through their run.
I can't stress how unusual it is to retain the viewing figures between episodes 1 & 2 of a show, look at any show in our database, it just doesn't happen. Not here or in America. *If* that can be maintained, or even built on by word or mouth, then I sincerely do believe we're in with a chance :)
That's the biggest problem, companies do strive for the ever impossible 'one' that will beat the rest. imo they should be promoting what they have in The Musketeers more....
There's the BBC3 second showing as well to add to these figures. However, not sure whether episode 1 is actually going to be shown on BBC3. In this week's Radio Times it lists Wednesday's BBC3 episode as showing the first episode but the website shows it as the second episode.
Would the BBC's lack of promotion be because it is so successful abroad, so they don't think they need to promote it as much here?
On another (good) point, I manage to get my parents to watch season 1 this week on DVD and they have throughly enjoyed it and will now be watching season 2. They didn't think they would like it. I think we've just got to keep promoting the show ourselves and hopefully more people will give it a go and like it.
I'm not sure why Ep1 isn't being shown, but yeah from An Ordinary Man onwards there should be some more added to it from the second viewing too hopefully.
Like Tigercheetah, I'm coming across people who are only just becoming aware that's it's back too. The BBC haven't promoted it nearly enough on the TV. It's very odd for a show that could do so well and is receiving such critical acclaim :s
If the BBC still have faith in the show - despite the less than great viewing figures - they could always do a 'Torchwood' with it and alter the channel that it's on and / or the number of episodes that it gets. Ripper Street has been kept going via other means and so was Primevil - another show where Adrian was a producer - so if The Musketeers remains a well received show despite the viewing figures - especially with good international sales - there's no reason not to keep it going in some way, even if it just meant being 'downgraded' to a BBC 2 show with fewer episodes.
If the show didn't get a third series, one of the things that would probably disappoint Adrian the most would be the lost opportunity to get d'Artagnan that little bit closer to his legendary status - he did say S3 might centre on his "heroic journey" - but the thing is, that storyline wouldn't need to have 10 episodes on BBC 1 in order to get it done.
I'm not overly worried just yet :) just thinking ahead.
We just got to see this last night here in the states so hope you don't mind me digging this one back up to give my thoughts. I really loved it. I thought it was well paced and still had the humor and brotherly bond that I love. I am not liking the new Louis at all and fear I will like him less and less as the series progresses. I'm also a bit worried for Treville. I understand why he did what he did but now how is that going to impact him and his men? We already know Rochefort hates them, and he has the King's ear now, much like the Cardinal. The only difference is, now Louis is annoyed with Treville and might be more willing to listen. I miss the happy, smiling Louis.
As for my four favorite men... The scene with D'Artagnan and Lucy in her room was hilarious. Poor D'Artagnan, he has a way of getting into embarrassing situations. I also loved the scenes with Constance and he guys pulling her husband away so they could talk. She was a bit cruel to him when she saw him kissing Lucy. I mean she dumped him but now is jealous? Can't have it both way Constance.
I'm sure somewhere in all the comments there is speculation on what happened with Treville and Porthos mother but I haven't had time to read back yet. That had me a bit confused. I will have to rewatch it. And lastly.. the scene with Aramis discovering Adele was dead. I had a feeling that was coming. The question is, what other surprises did the Cardinal leave?
I am going to rewatch it later but all in all I was very happy with it.
It's interesting to see how different Louis is without the Cardinal there to keep a firm control on his stupid side, it's only now he's gone that you realise what a huge influence he was. I think Treville is going to regret turning that job down, but he was right to imo. He's not going to be able to control the king in the same way, and doesn't have the head for politics.
I didn't see Constance being particularly jealous at all, just very, very realistic about the situation, something that d'Artagnan isn't at present. He has a lot to learn about the world still, especially when it comes to women. The Adele scene was marvellous wasn't it, certainly made up for all the times we wanted Aramis to find out last year!
In hindsight you are right I think about Constance. Perhaps jealous wasn't the right word. I just felt she was a little cold about the whole thing. As for Aramis I think he might be in for a bumpy ride. Rochefort has an eye for the Queen and the King's ear. That I think is going to spell trouble for Aramis.
I can get why she was a bit cold, it must have been a bit of a shock for her after all. d'Artagnan was a bit of an idiot to talk to her like that as she walked away just because he felt a bit guilty about it all - it was almost like he was trying to rub the kiss off his lips as he walked down the steps to her too. He has a lot of growing up to do, but that's what the books/show is about after all, and I love that we are getting to see characters go through that process :)
You can tell from that one scene with the Dauphin that Aramis feels that tug as a father, it's certainly going to be a tough one for him this year I think. He is in an impossible situation, especially with the church knowing too much about his affairs. What will happen? I can't wait to find out, lol
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Cracking start to the season! Love Rochefort as the new baddie, as do most of Twitter by the looks of it :D So happy that the show is finally back, and can't wait to hear what you all thought of it.
ReplyDeleteWow, can't believe we have finally reached "the other side," my friends. Here are a few of my thoughts.
ReplyDeleteLoved the music. From the very first scene. Also, the opening credits and theme might (Just might!) have been the best part of the whole show. Haha.
Wow, Anne recovers nicely. When my little one is born this summer, I will let you know if I look that amazing an hour later. Touching scene with Louis.
Speaking of...you have to really feel for Louis. He tried to find a good counselor. What an interesting hint of things to come with Treville! So good to see him back as well.
I LOVED the looks on Constance's face during her scene with Anne. Such surprised and vulnerability. Anne certainly is a trusting person. She knows nothing of Constance. However, Constance is one to be trusted, so she is in good hands.
I didn't like the dream scene. Felt a bit forced and unnecessary. Didn't enjoy it.
Loved seeing more of Bonacieux and his thoughts on things.
Love love love Rochefort. If he continues on his killing spree, however, there will be no one left in France.
I really enjoyed and liked Lucie. She was lovely and bright and not annoying at all.
Anne doesn't seem to be too "in love" with Rochefort. Just friendly.
While, I find the last scene with Constagnan to be a good one, it felt oddly placed to me. First, I didn't find it fair at all for him to go on the offensive with her when he should be the one embarrassed. I also felt that all the things said between them could have used another conversation or two leading up to that. How they felt about her position just sort of bubbled up all of a sudden. While it was good to hear her validate all the things we have been talking about here on this site, they never talked about it all before. Just felt odd. Would have felt better placed to me if they had a talk at the end of the last series or if this came later. Lovely scene though. Tamla is wonderful.
Marguerite is lovely!!!
The moment concerning Adele was very poignant to me as it almost seemed as if Aramis forgot about her along with the writers and the audience. Very well acted. I really felt for Aramis....as if he realized he should have been more concerned and looked in the matter more.
Cannot waaaaaaiiitttttt for next week! Louis looks so hilarious, I may burst from laughter. Cannot wait to see his interaction with Luke.
Loved it! So glad Aramis finally found about Adele and managed to get at least a glimpse of his son. Plus Marc Warren was brilliant. I already want more! Can't wait til next week..
ReplyDeleteOh, my gosh! That was so long. Sorry, everyone. Haha......*hides from embarrassment.*
ReplyDeleteWow, that was pretty good..
ReplyDeleteI wasn't sure about the change of tone to begin with, like with Atlantis, I wondered for a bit whether the tone had gone too far the other way but by the time Rochefort said his final lines, I was won round. I really like that he's going to be a "snake" in the new series..
Captain Treville being the first target of Louis's insecurity was a real surprise..
I didn't think Aramis would learn about Adelle this early on..
I wonder whether any of the Musketeers will become a bit more trusting of Rochefort or not, especially after Athos seemed to warm to him just a touch.
Great to see Constance finally occupy a position in the palace, where she needed to be in the first place.. And she needs to make her decision about D'Artagnan and her marriage..
Loved the action sequences, especially Dart in the water.. He also had nice scenes with Lucia, he was curious about her but without being overtly interested in her.
The Athos handshake was a great scene for us viewers who knew the truth already. Nicely acted. Rochefort as conniving snake is going to surprise Athos. I wonder when they do find out....or if they become even more trusting of him until then.
ReplyDeleteLovely review of the episode Sunny, I agree with most of what you say. Rochefort is a hit by the looks of it, I'm so glad as I do think he's wonderful in the role! Poor, poor Adele, that was a great scene wasn't it. It came completely out of the blue when I saw it in the screening, I swear I had a lump in my throat! After last season of wanting Aramis to find out every single ruddy week and being disappointed again and again, he finally found out! That scene made it all completely worth while too, as you say his realisation that he should have done more himself, and the way it linked to his plotline this year made it work well.
ReplyDeleteI don't think D'Artagnan needed to be embarassed about his kiss with Lucia, although I do agree that his and Constance's conversation at the garrison felt a bit rushed and forced - a bit like Ninon's equality speeches in the last series. I suppose D'Artagnan's embarassment was fuelling his emotion.
ReplyDeleteI loved how they tied in the Adele scene to Isabelle and the problems he is going to have with his son. What exactly did the Cardinal know, and who did he tell?? He isn't going to have an easy time of it this year methinks!
ReplyDeleteOh dear....I wrote a "review." hahaha. I really didn't realize how long it was until I hit post!
ReplyDeleteThe sad part is, Aramis would have still been way too late to save her even if he had tried to find out what happened. But he will never know that so he will just live with guilt. I found his way of saying "truly loved" to maybe be a hint of things to come with Marguerite?? Maybe he doesn't truly love her at all in the end? Either way, they make a handsome handsome couple.
I agree with you. He didn't need to be. I didn't like the way I phrased it as I wrote it. I meant really that we as viewers were already choosing sides! Ha. And the writers knew that and put him on the offensive instead of the defensive. Interesting move.
ReplyDeleteI guess I'm wondering whether Adrian Hodges is following tradition when it comes to D'Artagnan being the biggest pain-in-the-butt as far as Rochefort is concerned. Sandi might already know having seen a couple of episodes now.
ReplyDeleteThe weight on Treville is going to be great this season I think. Turning down Louis like that, and this intrigue with Porthos' father and their past together is going to torture him a little I think. But he was right, he is a soldier at the end of the day, he isn't really best positioned to advise the king....though now Rochefort has that job we can only wonder how bad things will really get!
ReplyDeleteIt was definitely worth the wait! Marc Warren is awesome as Rochefort and I can't wait to see more of him. I do agree with you about the last scene with Constagnan - it did feel a bit strange to me, although I think I need to watch again before I pass judgement.
ReplyDeleteUnfortunately, my SkyBox failed to record much to my annoyance but thankfully we have iPlayer to the rescue.
Next week's episode is going to be epic - Ryan is hilarious!
I liked that handshake too, I don't think either of them particularly trust each other though, hence the title of the episode and why I used it as the header photo in my preview. I can see the two of them bashing heads a lot this season, Athos ain't no fool and knows that you have to keep your enemies closer than your friends I think ;)
ReplyDeleteAs soon as Louis said the words "will you be the Captain of the Red Guards?" I thought ohhhhhh nooooooo. :)
ReplyDeleteHmm, it's not something that has come up in the episodes I've seen so far. My impression from this episode is that Athos is the one that has the most history with him, and was the one that sussed him out, with the two fake out shooting incidents. But I guess time will tell.
ReplyDeleteiPlayer is the way to go, get those stats up for the BBC to see ;) lol
ReplyDeleteI felt really torn whilst watching it. On one hand, Tamla was so wonderful in it and it was definitely a conversation that they needed to have. On the other hand, it just felt way to early...But I felt cheated when the writers didn't give them time at the end of 1.10 to discuss what truly happened in 1.08. So that might have also made this scene feel rushed to me. At least 8 months has passed.....he is just asking her now? I also had that thought.
ReplyDeleteHowever, I did have a "bravo, Constance" moment too as I felt she truly voiced all of the realistic and logical and social reasons for her choices.
Me too. lol
ReplyDeleteI think Aramis is going to get in a pickle with Marguerite, unless he falls in love with her quite quickly..
ReplyDeleteI think Hugo Speer did a superb job as Treville - you can see how good an actor he is. It is definitely going to weigh down heavily on him. It will be interesting to see what impact this is all going to have on him!
ReplyDeleteHehe, no worries at all, it's great to read exactly what people think of an episode! We have Justyna who will be reviewing the episodes a few days after they air this year too, she does a great job on her reviews so I'm really looking forward to what she thinks of this one too. So keep an eye out for a post from her too :)
ReplyDeleteI was surprised to see her already at court as I was expecting an introduction to her. But I guess they didn't want it to seem as if all of Anne's friends are new. Either way, her brief scene made me attached to her already. She is quite lovely and charming.
ReplyDeleteWas it just me, or did his hair change from his first scene to his second? Ha. By the end of the episode, he seemed to look like he did last series where the first scene, I thought he looked different.
ReplyDeleteYes, like Tom he can say so much without the need for words. It's a gift! I really felt for him as he stood there at the end there listening to the four of them below in the garrison :(
ReplyDeleteLol yes, it was very short in that first scene wasn't it!
ReplyDeleteI missed that! I'll look out for it when I watch on iPlayer! :)
ReplyDeleteYeah same! It's good that she was mentioned and not forgotten as that does seem to happen with a lot of shows, though I didn't know Athos knew about Isabelle because he didn't react much at the time. Though I like the idea that Aramis confided in him about it off screen.
ReplyDeleteAnd yeah I think things might get a lot worse for him and I know it's bad but I'm looking forward to some good Aramis angst! Haha. I just hope we see him interact with the queen soon!
Where is Scoobie? LOL
ReplyDeleteI do enjoy the Aramis/Athos relationship, the look he gave him after he waved off Marguerite and the Dauphin was classic! I do wonder when the other two will find out about the situation though, and how much of a problem withholding such a secret will cause amongst the unit?
ReplyDeleteI was just wondering that myself! lol. Maybe she's licking the screen after pausing it around the time d'Artagnan climbed out of the well ;)
ReplyDeleteI was surprised to see them having that conversation inside the palace. Guards are listening! LOL
ReplyDeleteBahahahahahaha!!!
ReplyDeleteOkay, that wasn't what I was thinking. I was just checking to make sure she didn't toss her TV as she threatened to do!
You're right about those looks on Constance's face - I did love that scene between Anne and Constance. I am really looking forward to their interaction this season. They are both superb actresses.
ReplyDeleteHow often is Bonacieux going to see his wife? He must feel quite cheated now that he won't see very much of her and also will be extremely curious about D'Artagnan's involvement in getting her the job! I really want to see him on Team Rochefort - that will make life interesting for Constagnan!
He didn't seem to mind her leaving, did he? He obviously cares more about the money and status. But we already knew that.
ReplyDeletePart of me wondered if d'Artagnan was expecting Constance to jump at the chance to be back with him as she has new found freedom.
Yeah I love a good bromance, which is probably why adore this show! Haha. Yess I'm thinking there might be something that forces them to tell Porthos and D'Artagnan or that they might guess it if they see Aramis with the Dauphin. Aramis is going to be affected by Adele and not being able to see Anne or his son so I'm sure they'll get suspicious. Especially Porthos who he is close with.
ReplyDeleteDidn't she say that she sometimes has commitments on a Friday evening?
ReplyDeleteOMG njfdsfjbjHH... I loved it!!!
ReplyDeleteI agree with Sunnty about the daydream. I know they're making it more raunchy but at least make it believable. I was just thinking 'Ermmmm, well that never happened...'
And enough of the nudity already. I like this as a family show. I guess though you would drop your clothes if you didn't know there was anyone else there... Hmmm
However, I don't mind topless musketeers :D Especially Athos and Aramis! <3
Yeah they weren't exactly subtle! Haha. I'm beginning to think all the guards are deaf or something.
ReplyDeleteIt's a daydream, why does it need to be believable? :)
ReplyDeleteReally enjoyed the episode. There was so much to love. Porthos I just love him! Athos, as Sandi said, he never seemed more like a born leader. D'Artagnan's athleticism was incredible....as was his stamina according to Constance!😉 Not that much Aramis but what we got was great.Primarily, though Rochefort just ate up the screen in every scene he was in. Much to my absolute astonishment, I actually liked Lucie. She was gutsy and spirited. I really didn't like that we were left with no clue as to the fate of De Foix. Are we simply to assume he died? He was a terrific character and Dominic Mafham did a great job. Are we also to assume that post his confrontation with Constance, Lucie ceased to be a viable proposition for him. She did seem to push him away slightly. The conversation between D'Artagnan and Constance was very necessary but I agree that the placement of the conversation was odd. I did like her assertiveness in the scene though and Tamla was marvellous, as indeed was Luke. You really felt both their frustration. Still not convinced by the dream sequence. I agree with Sunny that it felt unnecessary and I'm not really sure that as a Constagnan fan I'm grateful for it. I know they love each other. What I'd like to see is them expressing that love in the context of the drama. I don't really want to be pandered to. Overall though, a cracking start with a lot of ominous portent. Bring on epidside two.
ReplyDeleteYes, he didn't seem to mind at all! I wonder how much we're going to see of him this season.
ReplyDeleteYou're right about d'Artargnan - he just thought she would choose him once she was at the Palace. I wonder what is going to change her mind!
Trueeee :) We didn't know that at the time though... :D
ReplyDeleteSort of similar to what Cersie complains about in GoT.
ReplyDeleteIt was a strong start and Rochefort is a wonderful addition and clearly a dangerous adversary for the boys. I am glad Aramis has finally found out about Adele it was not a nice way and the Cardinal still has a reach but it was very well acted which was particularly helped by the chemistry between Athos and Aramis. And a very interesting revelation regarding Porthos so all in all it was just fantastic to have the show and boys back.
ReplyDeleteI think the daydream might have worked better had it lasted a bit longer and started with the lovers actually falling into bed, rather than during mid-passion. But generally, because sex has a realistic place in a passionate relationship, I didn't have a problem with it.
ReplyDeleteyeah you're right. That is as equally cringe worthy
ReplyDeletea few quibbles, but it was a great start.
ReplyDeleteNot sure about the new baddy though, he's not as captivating as Capaldi IMO. I'll give him time tho
Whilst I think that conversation was a bit forced in terms of writing, Constance is trying to get D'Artagnan off her back over leaving Bonacieux and needed to spell out to him the reality of her situation..
ReplyDeleteeh,, I think the whole "without my husband I'll be shamed & forced to live on the streets" monologue should have been enough to convince D'Art of her situation.
ReplyDeleteI think D'Art acted like a sulky brat though
I didn't dislike it due to sex. I think it might have been because it was our first scene with Constance...I felt she deserved better intro to series 2 than that. But that is me loving Constance for so many reasons and wanting more for her than being a love interest.
ReplyDeleteI'm here!😄 Replied to your post below.
ReplyDeleteThat's right! Pandering. You described what I felt exactly. I wouldn't have minded her remembering something that actually happened. I felt like it had no place other than "food for the shippers."
ReplyDeleteBless you all! 😂 My TV is intact.....and (whisper it) I liked Lucie😨....I know what next huh?
ReplyDeleteThis was a wonderful start to season 2. So many new things set up and a new super villain. Each character gets some new challenges thrown his way - I love how they do that and how they make you feel for each and every one of them. Truly a great show!
ReplyDeleteSo nice to discuss actual events!!
ReplyDeleteMy screen is unadulterated....just. I must admit I think my estrogen levels increased substantially at several points.😂😂
ReplyDeleteYeah. I thought Constance turning up in exactly the moment D'Artagnan kissed Lucia was stretching the imagination a little bit too far. :)
ReplyDeleteYou took this in a much more logical direction! LOL
ReplyDeleteI fly home quite often on Fridays to visit family but thankfully am home tonight.😊
ReplyDeleteI think he wouldn't have appeared that way if they had better lead up to that conversation. As I said below, one or two previous chats about their situation would have made that scene seem much better all around. His emotion and opinions would have been more understandable and her sudden outburst would seem more fitting.
ReplyDeleteAnd steamy daydreams....and my apparent TV screen/D'Artagnan fetish. Honestly.....😉😄
ReplyDeleteMy mum said something that won't be popular - she thinks Lucia had more chemistry with D'Artagnan than Constance.. She sort of likes Constance but doesn't think she's feisty enough for the "handsome, young and feisty Musketeer."
ReplyDeleteAt some point, has Constance got to decide whether she wants to attempt the dream or not?
If someone was not happy with the 'raunchy dream scene' they certainly shouldn't be happy about the amount of people killed! Surely two people in love (and there was nothing really explicit here)are better to watch than seeing somebody's throat cut with a knife?
ReplyDeleteIf Constance wasn't having naughty dreams about D'Artagnan, I'd tell her to stay with her husband and not risk the security she has with him.. :)
ReplyDeleteTo be fair to Adrian, he's trying to portray a passionate affair - or the beginnings of one - which sometimes means including overt sexuality. I honestly didn't have a problem with it, Constance can't be with the man she loves, all she can do is dream - it's realistic.
I see your point. I didn't have anything against the actual scene content. I just thought it could have been done a little different. They didn't seem comfortable. Maybe it's just me :)
ReplyDeleteOn the basis of tonight, I'd agree with your Mum. I think we'll see a build up in the chemistry over the next few weeks though. Calling her a coward was tough and certainly not true. She's practical and realistic and didn't speak one word of a lie. If she chose him she'd face ruin and potentially a life of destitution. It's whether she loves him enough to run that substantial risk. You could see that the minute he called her a coward and hurt her, it obviously hurt him. Interestingly, the Queen appeared to instantly dislike Bonacieux and I think she also realised that there might be more to D'Art's recommendation than merely a bit of personnel advice.😄
ReplyDeleteThere's certainly going to be some real interaction between the musketeers, their friends / lovers and the Royals this year..
ReplyDeleteI disliked it as I felt it wasn't needed and it felt a bit forced. I have nothing wrong with sexual content. It really wasn't that sexual at all.
ReplyDeleteYou might be right :) but I suppose Adrian had to fit a heck of a lot into episode 1 - especially Rochefort 's introduction - and if he'd had more time, Constance's scenes might have come across a little better.
ReplyDeleteHaha, it wasn't that bad. I don't even care that much really. I just looked forward to her scenes and their scenes quite a bit and felt a bit disappointed in some aspects. My expectations were a bit high though after all of our ideas and speculations...
ReplyDeleteI think the coward comment was the last nail in the coffin in making that scene seem a bit premature to me. The first time they discuss her marriage, he calls her a coward? Just a bit rushed. I feel like that, even though it would be still be a low blow, would be more suited to a later conversation.
ReplyDeleteI actually had the thought that she would have made a nice addition if there had been no Constance. Oops. =)
ReplyDeleteWhich kind of goes back to my comment from last week. He wouldn't be the d'Artagnan we know and love if he became enamored with a complete annoying brat.
I have to admit...out of all of us, it would be you! =)
ReplyDeleteOne of the shows minor faults is that sometimes, there's so much going on, that some characters end up being neglected and getting scenes that aren't really long enough.
ReplyDeleteIt's not as bad as Downton Abbey in this area - Adrian balances things quite well - but sometimes, characters and building-relationships could have done with a few more minutes of screentime.
I kind of agree with you about OUAT, i think that the actors portraying the snow queen, Elsa and Anna have done a fantastic job. i liked how well they all seemed to blend with the cast. However i thought that the Frozen storyline as whole was just okay, not as good as i hoped it would be.
ReplyDeleteI think a good example of this is that there are four leads! While I think Adrian does this well, I sometimes find that he seems to be making sure each one gets an equal amount of lines in a scene when they are all together. Nothing wrong with this, but sometimes I find it a bit silly how each one gets a turn speaking before they start over with the first speaker and take turns again.
ReplyDeleteIt was a jammed packed opener, so much going on! It does look like all of them are going to have troubles this year, even the poor innocent Dauphin going by the evil glint in that priest's eye as he taunted Aramis. I can't wait to see how it all pans out over the season.
ReplyDeleteI had no problem with the nudity, it's not a family show as it goes out after the watershed and it wasn't gratuitous or indulgent in anyway I thought. If d'Artagnan hadn't of intervened or been embarrassed by the situation then I would probably have had more of an issue with it. Besides, it wasn't as if they didn't have the man in the scene completely dressed like they do in many other shows that show full frontal female nudity in scenes. He was topless and soaking wet, which did at least try to address the balance somewhat I feel.
ReplyDeleteIt felt more romanticised than sexual to me, which feels right for the couple from my point of view. Constance does have a very realistic view of the situation, which the end of the episode showed, but that was her carefree, wishful thoughts. Not so much about sex as such, just being with him.
ReplyDeleteHehe, sorry! xx
ReplyDeleteI'm glad that you liked Lucie :)
ReplyDeleteHonestly, so did I. In some ways it was like watching Constance series one, embodied in Lucie and a somewhat strange, rather hollow creature that I didn't really recognise, as Constance series two. Maybe she's still exhausted from all that fantasy sex.😜 I just really hope we're not going to have the moping about for too long. to be honest, it was a bit draining.
ReplyDeleteI'm going to be unpopular too and have to admit that I kinda liked the chemistry between Lucie and d'Artagnan too, but only as a one off episode fling.
ReplyDeleteI really liked that scene, I hope this doesn't make me unpopular around here! We are still in the process of seeing d'Artagnan mature, at present he's still naive, hot headed and doesn't think things through before he opens that gob of his! This is one of the things I adore about this version of the show, we are seeing the characters grow, especially the young Gascon.
ReplyDeleteHe knew as soon as those words left his mouth that they were the wrong thing to say, that Constance was right, he's just impatient. Seeing him, and the others, learn lessons is what makes this show interesting to me.
Agreed, it's going to be a rollercoaster for all of them. No wonder there wasn't many photos of them smiling during the filming process, lol
ReplyDeleteI really did. I mentioned in a comment below that it was as though I was watching Constance series one in Lucie. Gutsy, fun and energetic and then there was Constance series two. Sullen, moping about, depressed and depressing. Kicked in the teeth by both of the men in her life. Called a donkey and a coward. Brilliant.
ReplyDeleteI think the moment it was out if his mouth and he saw her beautifully played reaction (fabulous Tamla, as always), he felt like crap. He's going to be desperate to walk that back and perhaps when she shows her courage later in the series, he'll be begging for her forgiveness.
ReplyDeleteLol yes! It was like the oh so subtle conversation Anne and Aramis had about the pregnancy at the end of S1, with her ladies in waiting just behind her. Good thing they aren't as clever as the Cardinal at reading between the lines!
ReplyDeleteAgain, I saw this as d'Artagnan assuming that Constance would be immediately grateful for the distance it gave her from her husband without thinking things through fully. He has a big heart in him, but still needs time to learn the ways of the world, especially the way things look from outside his point of view. It will come time, it's something everyone has to learn after all. This season will have some big lessons for him I think.
ReplyDeleteTamla was so strong in that scene, as was Luca playing the confused and head strong side of it.
ReplyDeleteAthos had so much faith in young d'Artagnan to send him ahead during the mission, especially with the added 'kill if needs be' clause attached. That was great to see I thought.
ReplyDeleteShe seems so doesn't she, which just makes me fear her fate even more if/when she finds out what is happening with Aramis/the Dauphin/Anne.
ReplyDeleteI just knew that the rather dismal reporting we had back in the summer of 'oh the Cardinal's dead and we've moved on' was going to be a quote taken completely out of context. There's no way they would have done that. He knew too much, and the crew obviously care about the show and the fans far too much to fob them off like that. I think they've been very clever at killing him off but still having what, and who, he knew out there to finish off his dirty work!
ReplyDeleteI too love the Athos/Aramis chemistry, the two of them can be very alike at times. I do also love Aramis with Porthos too though, so I hope the two of them have some fun times this season in amongst all the family woes.
Exactly this! He should be thanking his lucky stars that at least his mistakes aren't getting her killed like Isabella or Adele...well, so far anyway, let's hope Rochefort doesn't cotton on!! He is the youngest of the four by some margin, and so obviously will have a bit more to learn, but that is why the novels are generally known as the d'Artagnan Tales, they are his coming of age story. If he was a wise man now, saying the right things, there wouldn't be any room for him to grow as a character.
ReplyDeleteThat scene for me was perfect, sorry if Constagnan fans don't see it the way I did. I thought it had bags of passion from the both of them, and so much more chemistry between them than I have felt before. You can just tell that they *will* work this out, this is the beginning of the arc that the two of them will work through to end up in the daydream reality that Constance saw at the start of the episode. The two actors were amazing in it, just superb!
Oh, I loved the scene and the acting. I did feel it as a conversation was quite vital for them. However, I felt as if they were arguing as if they had argued several times and we missed it. Especially when she accused him of never thinking of her situation....well, according to "on screen" she never really gave him a chance to talk to her about it. She kicked him in out twice (1.08, 1.10). LOL. I just wish we had a few chats leading up to it. But yes, it was a lovely scene.
ReplyDeleteI replied below about how I do like the scene, so I won't repeat myself here. But you bring up a good point about it showing d'Artagnan's immaturity and youthfulness. Constance, in a way, is far ahead of him in that regard.
ReplyDeleteI think the handled it well. The funeral was immediate and the replacement baddie was brilliant. Everyone was over Capaldi and his "death" by Rochefort's second scene. Ha.
ReplyDeleteNow, I'm to bed!! Finally! Good night all, it's been fun!
Yes, that is true and a good point about Constance. I just hate dream scenes altogether regardless of content so I was already biased!
ReplyDeleteIt's so great to have it back again! So much to love about it! I liked how they didn't treat d'Artagnan like a newbie anymore who needed babysitting and Rochefort is a true psychopath, this'll be fun
ReplyDeleteI agree.
ReplyDeleteBecause I'm emotionally invested in Constagnan, that scene wasn't about sex to me but about Constance wanting to be with the man she loves and sadly, dreaming is the only way she can do that right now...
I agree.
ReplyDeleteI think it would be unrealistic if D'Artagnan's youthful frustrations over Constance didn't result in him saying things that he doesn't mean. He knows Constance is a clever woman but in that moment - after being caught kissing another woman ( even though he was within his rights to do so, considering Constance had pushed him away earlier ) - his emotions overruled his head.
After watching again on iPlayer last night (couldn't help myself), I found I enjoyed the episode even more than the first time. I'd missed quite a few things when I watched it live - probably due to those good looking men in leather - and it helped me to appreciate the Constagnan scenes more. I think we have to remember that d'Artagnan is a young, hot headed man who wears his heart on his sleeve and that is just what we saw in that episode. BTW, I think both Tamla and Luke's acting was superb in this episode too!
ReplyDeleteI also didn't mind the dream scene. Whilst it did seem rushed and unnecessary at first, I didn't mind it the second time around, as it helped to show that Constance has strong and passionate feelings for d'Artagnan too. I think that was important for newbies to the show.
I'm going to enjoy very much the Constagnan rollercoaster this year, probably even more than I did last year!
It looks like it's a success overall with those who did tune in, I've not seen a great deal of criticism for it. It only got 3.64 million in the overnights which isn't brilliant, people choosing Benidorm over it on ITV it seems. I did see a lot of people moaning about that on Twitter though, so hopefully things will slowly slide the other way due to the acclaim Marc Warren is creating! Plus, we need to get those iPlayer views up, show the BBC how popular it really is ;)
ReplyDeleteI get you mean, but I don't mind missing any previous arguments, seeing them would have made this one too repetitive for me I think. The passion in this one, alone with the script, made any history of the past six months obvious, and I like that we can read between the lines without having to see everything that happens. The same with the other two arc set up after them too - Porthos/Treville & Aramis/the Cardinal's reach. The episode only needed to give me the hints for now after all that previous action, I'm reassured that the following nine episodes will go on to tell me the story. Perhaps that's just the non-shipper in me though, I dunno. As a general viewer, it worked perfectly as a set up of what's to come.
ReplyDeleteAgree about Constance being the mature one of the two, and he'll learn a lot from her, and she from him I think too. I also agree that being caught in the act of kissing Lucie put him on the back foot, he felt on the offensive, almost like "I wouldn't being doing this if it wasn't for you". That may be true, but he shouldn't off load that on to her, and I think he realised that as soon as she walked away.
ReplyDeleteHe's an emotional guy, at work he can just about keep that under control - even though his hand still shook as he was about to shoot de Foix, he would have carried his orders out. But Constance makes him lose that composure still, it's a big lesson to learn in life, but he'll get there!
ReplyDeleteI'll admit I was disappointed when I saw that figure but as you say - and as Adrian said in his Geek interview - the timeshift / consolidated viewing figures will be just as important.
ReplyDeleteI noticed a number of people on twitter say that they were having to choose between Musketeers and Benidorm and on top of that, a few people didn't even know Musketeers was on last night - they thought it was going out on Sunday.
That seems to be the biggest problem, people assuming it would be on Sunday again I think. I dunno why people would choose to watch the channel with adverts and record the ad free one though, that sounds backwards to me, lol. I just hope that things pick up from next weeks once the holidays are over properly...
ReplyDeleteGood point about the ad breaks, I never watch Downton Abbey live because of all the ad breaks.
ReplyDeleteI think the viewing figures for episode 2 might be more telling, though the timeshift figures will remain important.
I'm pushing the iPlayer link, and mailing/tweeting the BBC on Twitter at present too. The fans are great at getting the word round, so hopefully the timeshift will be good *fingers crossed*
ReplyDeleteNot great at all. They'll probably add another 1-1.5 million to that though through time shift etc. I really would have liked to have seen it up above 4 million though for a series opener. I'm goung to keep the faith though that with international sales etc that we may still be ok. The expectations for the timeslot also have to be considered.
ReplyDeleteReally hope that they portray Rochefort's character well... He has a tough hole to fill (the tweet from the BBC1's account was delightful, though, ahahah!).
ReplyDeleteI liked it! Favourite part was probably the scene with Aramis and the Cardinal-Beyond-The-Grave. I'm so glad to have my (b)romantic guilty pleasure back! :-)
It seems to be working as it is up to 4th place now! :)
ReplyDeleteI so very, very nearly went with that for Scene of the Week on the site tomorrow, in truth there were three scenes that I had trouble choosing between! I did get a lump in my throat during that one though, the way Adele was never referred to again last year did feel a bit like a kick in the teeth for her character.
ReplyDeleteBut all is forgiven, now it is causing this heartache for Aramis...it is a funny old way us fans see the word sometimes isn't it. Would be terrible in real life, but as long as it's causing drama for characters we love it's completely acceptable and we'll have more of that please!! Especially if it includes more of Athos holding back angry Aramis from hurting the bad priest man and other brotherhood stuff like that :D Lol.
Hopefully the show can perform a minor miracle, and perhaps add a few viewers rather than lose them the second week. Bit ambitious perhaps, but I like to aim big, lol.
ReplyDeleteYay, it's up four places, which ain't too shabby :) I've written a letter which next week to the BBC saying how awesome to have it back too. Pulling out all the stops, lol.
ReplyDelete"Especially if it includes more of Athos holding back angry Aramis from hurting the bad priest man and other brotherhood stuff like that :D"
ReplyDeleteDon't tease :D
So absolutely none of this kind of thing then ;)
ReplyDeletehttp://38.media.tumblr.com/c51a18740f08951b1135f0ded6023e3a/tumblr_nhlu5xlAvd1qg5lg0o4_r2_250.gif
ReplyDeleteXD
Love that moment. As I said on Twitter last night, Tom Burke can convey so much with out ever open mouth, it's a talent :D
ReplyDeleteI'm guessing Porthos' darker side will come from finding out his identity, and whatever that has to do with Treville and his past. I think we could see him really lose it here, being lied to by his Captain for so long, and what if he finds out about Athos/Aramis holding back here too. IT's even possible that d'Artagnan could keep any affair with Constance secret in order to not to tarnish her public persona, so that could make everyone Porthos trusts lying to him. That will change him a lot I think :(
ReplyDeleteI'm totallywith you on this Helen. That scene at the Garrison last night is now one of my favourite scenes between Constagnan. In terms of evolving relationship, it feels much more "grown up". As someone who loves angst, I'm already incredibly excited to see where this all goes.
ReplyDeleteI'm about to watch it again doing the ironing! There is not much else on TV tonight, so rather looking forward to it! :)
ReplyDeleteDo you think writing to the BBC will help? Is there an email address I could write to also? We so need a season 3 and I really do think that the poor ratings are to do with the promotion of the series and its placement on a Friday, rather than people not wanting to watch it. Got my hubby to watch it last night and he thoroughly enjoyed it also!
He's a very good actor, in my opinion. He was the one who catched my attention right from the beginning, as long as Capaldi. Of course, his appearance on Utopia, Third Star, etc have raised my respect and my interest in him! :)
ReplyDeleteI can't understand why people would watch a show with ad breaks rather than one without. I always record the shows with the ad breaks, so I can fast forward and skip the ads as I can't stand them. Hopefully, next week's figures will be much, much better with people returning from holidays.
ReplyDeleteReally interesting. I think Porthos is really going to be traumatised by events this year. He's such a physically strong man that sometimes it's easy to overlook how devoted he is emotionally to his brother Musketeers. He's likely to feel very confused and betrayed. It would be interesting to see those fractures emerging at a time when they really need to work as a team, more so than ever before, to defeat a lethal and clever foe.
ReplyDeleteLetting them know that you are appreciating it is vital imo, as is saying you want more of it. Complaining too much about it isn't as helpful, though I did say that I thought it was under promoted. Here's the Contact the BBC page, it has a number of ways you can contact them on it :)
ReplyDeletehttp://www.bbc.co.uk/faqs/contacting_bbc
I'm glad that he's enjoying it too!
Exactly right. Since leaving the slums, soldiering has become his family, completely and utterly. If he loses the ability to put all his trust in them, where does that leave him... He's gonna be lower than he was than Bonnaire tricked him isn't he :(( Sad Porthos makes me just wanna hug him tbh!
ReplyDeleteI think they have cast them all very well, so suited to the characters from the books and very talented in their own ways. I have a soft spot for all of them really in their own way :)
ReplyDeleteSo I am pretty new to the show. I recently binged it all after Christmas and now I am full on obsessed! I really enjoyed the new episode. I have to admit I do miss the Cardinal but I am liking what Rochefort brings forth. I am not that great at the whole speculation thing but I LOVE reading all of the comments on these posts and the people here are so good at theorizing. I have been up quite late the past couple of nights just reading comments from the different musketeer spoiler tv posts haha. I'm just getting caught up on all things musketeers =D
ReplyDeleteI do have one question that hopefully someone could help me out with. I'm from Canada and I watch a lot of American TV so I am pretty familiar with the ratings and renewal system in the United States. For The Musketeers and BBC One I am curious as to how a renewal for series 3 would be possible. I know ratings count but for The Musketeers but what weekly numbers did they typically get in series one and when did they get renewed last year?
Also yes I do not live in the UK so I can't really help out with ratings :( The show airs here in Canada (at least it did last season) but I don't believe it was ever given a date for a season 2 return.
ReplyDeleteHi Julia, welcome to the site. Wow, you read through all our theories? That must have taken some time to do, we can babble a lot I'm afraid :o I do wonder how much we will get right, and how far off the mark some of it will be, lol.
ReplyDeleteWe have a pretty good database here for every show on the site, here's a link to The Musketeer bit - http://stvplus.com/show/385/The-Musketeers As you can see it started off very strong, but then dipped quite low towards the end, but most shows do lose a million or two anyway. Last night's overnight was 3.64 million, not brilliant but there will be at least one and half million to add to that in a weeks time after the catch up figures are added to it, for the final figure. So that's the negative out of the way.
The positive is it's now sold in 140 countries across the world, the second biggest drama that the BBC sell after Doctor Who. So on that front it is doing spectacularly well. The fans have grown in size over this last year by quite a lot. I was looking at some data for the site this morning and going by our figures the fan base has grown steadily, and considerably since August. This matches up with my anecdotal experience on social media too.
They are also very vocal and passionate about the program, which is what the show needs. BARB/Nielson can only measure the figures of people who have the equipment in their homes. Fans can help by watching iPlayer (if the can access the UK site) and contacting the BBC and/or their own broadcaster and letting them know how much they enjoy the show. American fans were very successful last year in convincing BBC America to bring forward the date of S2 to January for example, so voices can be heard :)
Sorry, just realised I've written an essay at you,my apologises! x
ReplyDeleteDid it air on Showcase in Canada?
ReplyDeleteHello! Thanks for the welcome Sandi :) and yes, I do read pretty much all of the theories. There is quite an abundance of them but I enjoy it!
ReplyDeleteAlso thanks again for the database link! I shall bookmark it on my laptop. Looking at the rating charts are very helpful. And wow, I did not realize how big the show is in terms of its ratings and its international audience. That's a lot of places it's been sold to and second biggest to Doctor Who?! That impresses me for whatever reason lol.
The Musketeers did air on showcase last year. But like I said no Canadian date/confirmation of it ever coming back to Canadian TV in the first place. Would I tweet them about it? Not sure how I would go about making my voice heard.
We're hoping those positives will help the show, thankfully as the BBC doesn't show adverts it is a little different to just about any other channel, so that does help!
ReplyDeleteYes, tweeting them may help, though it can get lost in amongst general tweets if there aren't many people doing it perhaps. This is the email for their Viewer Relations Department, which might be able to advise when S2 would be on - feedback@showcase.ca Their Facebook page also looks promising as they seem to answer people on there occasionally too.
Welcome Julia!😄
ReplyDeleteMaybe it'll pick up a few disillusioned Benidorm fans and draw in a few folks who didn't realise it was on.
ReplyDeleteAhh right, no adverts. I shall send an email over the them and check out Facebook! Thanks for the help.
ReplyDeleteI should have said this last night but one of my absolute favourite moments in the episode was when Athos, Aramis and Porthos distracted Bonacieux so that D'Artagnan could have a moment with Constance (alas a less than successful one). They even have each other's backs when it comes to romance. Porthos' little wink was so sweet.☺️
ReplyDeleteYou're welcome! I hope they are going to show it soon.
ReplyDeleteThanks! Happy to be here :)
ReplyDeleteHaha yes, like any of the would be taking his fashion advice and wear anything but the leather uniform anyway. Porthos said he wasn't comfortable in anything else when they were changing back out of the Spanish prison uniforms - and if you watch closely before that you can see him pulling at it at various points, showing his discomfort :) lol
ReplyDeleteIt's just so sweet that they all know how crazy he is about Constance and clearly want their "brother" to be happy. when you watch it back, you actually see Aramis looking back up the stairs with a smile at D'Artagnan, when he see Constance. Come to think of it, the main problem with a Constagnan wedding might not be waiting for Bonacieux to peg it, it might be picking a best man.😄
ReplyDeleteIt's also worth sayng that you can't underestimate the power of the lead in show. The Musketeers is saddled (if you'll pardon the pun) with Room 101. A tired series long past it's sell by date. Benidorm on the other hand, has Coronation Street, the most popular soap on British television.
ReplyDeleteDefinitely, a very sweet moment! The way they come round the corner and see Constance and Bonacieux. I just love the brotherhood - it is so evident that these four men are friends both on and off screen. :)
ReplyDeleteI liked this too! They didn't even waver. Just distracted immediately. So cute.
ReplyDeleteThe brotherhood is one of the best parts of the show for me.
ReplyDeleteNo worse than my essay yesterday!
ReplyDeleteWelcome welcome! We are a fun if not slightly obsessive bunch. =)
ReplyDeleteTotally agree - I can't think of another show that depicts this in such a perfect way.
ReplyDeleteIt's now at number 2 on the list of the top 40 programmes on iPlayer. Second to Eastenders. Keep watching people!😄
ReplyDeleteIn my excitement I just accidentally down voted that - sorry Scoobie! Up-voted it now! :)
ReplyDeleteWe're were just saying how difficult it will be to knock last night's eppy of EE off the top, that would be a mammoth task I think seeing what happened in it XD Keeping The Musketeers up there though is just as important though, as with the following episodes. I'm very proud of the fans today :D
ReplyDeleteHave the BBC ever moved a show to a different day/time mid-season? I am just wondering whether they would consider moving it to another day if they thought that it would draw in more viewers in a different slot. However, that could potentially be detrimental as well I suppose.
ReplyDeleteMe too! It would be lovely to see all the swashbuckling glory on a screen bigger than my Mac lol.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the welcome! I look forward to chatting with everyone in the future :D
ReplyDeleteI loved that part! Their dynamic as "brothers" is such a wonderful part of the show.
ReplyDeleteHello!! My name is Michelle and I am an avid reader of ALL of your posts for quite a while now!! Several times my fingers have hovered over the keyboard to post comments but chickened out at the last minute! This time I have taken the bull by the horns and signed up!! I am a HUGE Musketeer fan and have to say that D'artagnan/Constance are my favs followed by the boys equally after that....... Really looking forward to Season 2 and think Marc Warren is really going to be an awesome 'baddie'!! Can't wait for Friday evenings now.... Looking forward to chatting to you all :-)
ReplyDeleteWelcome Michelle! I was exactly like you last year. I kept coming back to read all the posts but hesitated before signing up to the forum but I am very glad I did now. It is a terrific show and it is a really great place to share our thoughts with fellow fans. :)
ReplyDeleteThanks Helen :-)
ReplyDeleteHi Michelle, welcome to the site. I'm really glad that you've taken the plunge and joined us, we always love to hear from new fans :)
ReplyDeleteI'm glad that people have taken to Rochefort so fast, I did immediately but I am a huge fan of Marc anyway so it was inevitable I guess. There was some concerned about the loss of Capaldi from some quarters, and some were not sure that anyone could fill his boots, so to speak. But he seems to have pulled it off pretty much from the get go with most people, he is deliciously evil! I kinda do have a bit of a soft spot for the baddies this year I'm afraid - in a love to hate way of course, the Musketeers still have to win the day ;)
Welcome Michelle!😄 Great to have you on board and to have another Constagnan fan to chat to. Love to hear the views of all fellow fans. This is a great spot for a chat.
ReplyDeleteHey there! I was in the same boat as you and decided to join just yesterday! And I love D'artagnan/Constance as well.
ReplyDeleteI'm not sure that's something they would do, unless the scheduling clashed with a major event. Even then, they usually legislate for that. I think moving it would also run the risk of sending out the wrong signals. Hopefully with iPlayer views and the BBC Three repeat, the numbers will rise to a more respectable figure. Almost more than the prospect of another series, I'd really like to see the cast and crew rewarded for their efforts and enthusiasm.
ReplyDeleteYou know part of what really worked for me about the scene was that we saw that these two fight with as much passion as they make love. It was a clever juxtaposition. You knew by the end of that scene that it wasn't remotely over for these two and that there is so much more to come. They're tearing each other apart at the moment but when the come back together again, as they will, it'll be even more explosive.
ReplyDeleteHello Julia glad I'm in good company! ;-)
ReplyDeleteHello Scoobie :-)
ReplyDeleteHello Sandi :-)
ReplyDeleteGoodness, you must have been reading for a while! We discuss every moment or prediction to death! Haha.
ReplyDeleteWelcome and join in the speculating!
Hi! Need some help here. For those of us who are in the US and want to view the eps before Jan. 17th, Sandi posted a way for us to view on iPlayer through Google Chrome. I can't find that post...could someone point me to it? I'm headed to Africa in two days and want to be able to watch while gone. Thanks so much!!
ReplyDeleteDoes anyone know when we'll get the timeshift / consolidated viewing figures for episode 1?
ReplyDeleteIt's usually 7 days for consolidated. Then the remaining iPlayer stats come out 3-4 weeks into the month following TX as they are done on a monthly basis.
ReplyDeleteI thought it was a little slow. It set up the rest of the season pretty nicely, but on it's own, I was a little underwhelmed.
ReplyDeleteI thought the pacing was pretty good for a set up episode, the introduction of the three arcs probably being the only fumble, it did drag the ending out a little there. I have to ask though, you thought the zip wire was underwhelming?
ReplyDelete(function(d, s, id) { var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0]; if (d.getElementById(id)) return; js = d.createElement(s); js.id = id; js.src = "//connect.facebook.net/en_US/all.js#xfbml=1"; fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs); }(document, 'script', 'facebook-jssdk'));
ReplyDeletePost by BBC One.
Well, that took out the mystery of everything...lol :D
Being that ambitious as to introduce three arcs in one go, and not expect the narrative of the episode at hand to suffer, is naive IMO.
ReplyDeleteAnd I was underwhelmed because by the time they finally got to the zip wire I was feeling rather "meh" about how things were progressing.
Cheers for this hun, I don't think you can embed in the comments, which is why the code looks odd. I have grabbed it and will pop it in the episode post though :)
ReplyDeleteEpisode 1 consolidated at 4.9 million, which again is dissapointing :( and if it sticks around that level, is it enough to get us that third series? Ripper Street was initially canceled with viewing figures around that level..
ReplyDeleteEpisode 1 is still being played on IPlayer and there's been a few tweets from people who have only just discovered the show and are loving it, so who knows which way the BBC will go..
It could be a matter of cost vs ratings.
I was just going to post the figures too. 1.6m isn't bad at all for time shift, there's the iPlayer stats to add to that too yet which will be another million or so I should think.
ReplyDeleteIt could be better obviously, but the drop off hasn't happened this week, and internationally it's strong. So we have to keep our hopes up, and keep supporting it so our voices are heard at this point :)
Ah, now that's interesting. As you say, 1.6 really isn't bad for time shift. With another potential million for iPlayer, it starts to look pretty healthy. I don't think Ripoer Street would have been doing those kind of numbers and certainly wouldn't have had the international dimension. Adrian mentioned that it was second only to Doctor Who in terms of international sales, which is amazing. They'll probably also weigh audience demographics for the series, as well as expectations for the time slot. I still think they should never have moved them from Sunday night. If they'd still been there, I'm confident you could have added another million to the overnight figure alone. In the finest tradition of The Musketeers, we fight on. I'm still confident that we'll get a third series.
ReplyDeleteJust been looking into it and Ripper Street were doing 1-1.2mish on catch up, and hemorrhaging viewers on a weekly basis. Here's their figures, pre and post catch up before S2 was cancelled
ReplyDelete5.10 - 6.45
4.35 - 5.48
3.97 - 5.03
3.03 - 4.39 (less than, no figure is known as it was too low to register)
3.10 - 4.27
Then it dropped to lower than 4.18 consolidated.
So yeah, they started out higher, but dropped a lot and ended up lower by half way through their run.
I can't stress how unusual it is to retain the viewing figures between episodes 1 & 2 of a show, look at any show in our database, it just doesn't happen. Not here or in America. *If* that can be maintained, or even built on by word or mouth, then I sincerely do believe we're in with a chance :)
That's the biggest problem, companies do strive for the ever impossible 'one' that will beat the rest. imo they should be promoting what they have in The Musketeers more....
ReplyDeleteThere's the BBC3 second showing as well to add to these figures. However, not sure whether episode 1 is actually going to be shown on BBC3. In this week's Radio Times it lists Wednesday's BBC3 episode as showing the first episode but the website shows it as the second episode.
ReplyDeleteWould the BBC's lack of promotion be because it is so successful abroad, so they don't think they need to promote it as much here?
On another (good) point, I manage to get my parents to watch season 1 this week on DVD and they have throughly enjoyed it and will now be watching season 2. They didn't think they would like it. I think we've just got to keep promoting the show ourselves and hopefully more people will give it a go and like it.
I'm not sure why Ep1 isn't being shown, but yeah from An Ordinary Man onwards there should be some more added to it from the second viewing too hopefully.
ReplyDeleteLike Tigercheetah, I'm coming across people who are only just becoming aware that's it's back too. The BBC haven't promoted it nearly enough on the TV. It's very odd for a show that could do so well and is receiving such critical acclaim :s
If the BBC still have faith in the show - despite the less than great viewing figures - they could always do a 'Torchwood' with it and alter the channel that it's on and / or the number of episodes that it gets. Ripper Street has been kept going via other means and so was Primevil - another show where Adrian was a producer - so if The Musketeers remains a well received show despite the viewing figures - especially with good international sales - there's no reason not to keep it going in some way, even if it just meant being 'downgraded' to a BBC 2 show with fewer episodes.
ReplyDeleteIf the show didn't get a third series, one of the things that would probably disappoint Adrian the most would be the lost opportunity to get d'Artagnan that little bit closer to his legendary status - he did say S3 might centre on his "heroic journey" - but the thing is, that storyline wouldn't need to have 10 episodes on BBC 1 in order to get it done.
I'm not overly worried just yet :) just thinking ahead.
We just got to see this last night here in the states so hope you don't mind me digging this one back up to give my thoughts. I really loved it. I thought it was well paced and still had the humor and brotherly bond that I love. I am not liking the new Louis at all and fear I will like him less and less as the series progresses. I'm also a bit worried for Treville. I understand why he did what he did but now how is that going to impact him and his men? We already know Rochefort hates them, and he has the King's ear now, much like the Cardinal. The only difference is, now Louis is annoyed with Treville and might be more willing to listen. I miss the happy, smiling Louis.
ReplyDeleteAs for my four favorite men... The scene with D'Artagnan and Lucy in her room was hilarious. Poor D'Artagnan, he has a way of getting into embarrassing situations. I also loved the scenes with Constance and he guys pulling her husband away so they could talk. She was a bit cruel to him when she saw him kissing Lucy. I mean she dumped him but now is jealous? Can't have it both way Constance.
I'm sure somewhere in all the comments there is speculation on what happened with Treville and Porthos mother but I haven't had time to read back yet. That had me a bit confused. I will have to rewatch it. And lastly.. the scene with Aramis discovering Adele was dead. I had a feeling that was coming. The question is, what other surprises did the Cardinal leave?
I am going to rewatch it later but all in all I was very happy with it.
It's interesting to see how different Louis is without the Cardinal there to keep a firm control on his stupid side, it's only now he's gone that you realise what a huge influence he was. I think Treville is going to regret turning that job down, but he was right to imo. He's not going to be able to control the king in the same way, and doesn't have the head for politics.
ReplyDeleteI didn't see Constance being particularly jealous at all, just very, very realistic about the situation, something that d'Artagnan isn't at present. He has a lot to learn about the world still, especially when it comes to women. The Adele scene was marvellous wasn't it, certainly made up for all the times we wanted Aramis to find out last year!
In hindsight you are right I think about Constance. Perhaps jealous wasn't the right word. I just felt she was a little cold about the whole thing. As for Aramis I think he might be in for a bumpy ride. Rochefort has an eye for the Queen and the King's ear. That I think is going to spell trouble for Aramis.
ReplyDeleteI can get why she was a bit cold, it must have been a bit of a shock for her after all. d'Artagnan was a bit of an idiot to talk to her like that as she walked away just because he felt a bit guilty about it all - it was almost like he was trying to rub the kiss off his lips as he walked down the steps to her too. He has a lot of growing up to do, but that's what the books/show is about after all, and I love that we are getting to see characters go through that process :)
ReplyDeleteYou can tell from that one scene with the Dauphin that Aramis feels that tug as a father, it's certainly going to be a tough one for him this year I think. He is in an impossible situation, especially with the church knowing too much about his affairs. What will happen? I can't wait to find out, lol