Mr. Selfridge – A First Look
Another day, another :20 of programming teaser brilliance comes our way. Yesterday, it was the first two glimpses of Downton Abbey 3. Today, comes a first look at ITV’s Mr. Selfridge starring Jeremy Piven in the true-to-life story of American entrepreneur, ‘Mile a Minute’ Harry Gordon Selfridge. It’s amazing how a mere :20 can say so little and, yet, say so much with regards to tone, atmosphere and quality.
Set in 1909, Harry is a man on a mission to bring bright lights and glamour to London’s famous Oxford Street and make shopping something exciting, entertaining and sometimes just eccentric for the fabulous ladies of London. This theatre of retail, translated in Harry Selfridge’s words, was a mission to make shopping as thrilling as sex.
The 10-part drama, created by writer Andrew Davies (Pride and Prejudice, Bleak House), is based on the book Shopping, Seduction and Mr Selfridge by author Lindy Woodhead. While no transmission dates have been set as of yet in the UK (ITV1) or US (PBS), look to 2013 for what appears to be more drama greatness that should help bridge what will be a very lengthy wait to, hopefully, Downton Abbey 4 and, definitely, Sherlock 3.
