Oh my wooooord!
I finally located a copy of this wonderful series, having only watched the remake series. While I thoroughly enjoyed the new series, I could never understand the appeal of Gina McKee's Irene. She was far too dry, too cold, too passionless. She in no way did justice to the Irene of the novel, with men practically shooting themselves for her favor. But this Irene... I understand now. She is so charismatic, passionate, and lives up to the character to a T.
My only complaint is the actress who plays Helene is TERRIBLE. Why do they always make her cry if she's so horrible at it?
PS Eric Porter is adorable.