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Beyond Paradise stars Barbara Flynn, Kris Marshall and Sally Bretton as Anne Lloyd, Humphrey Goodman and Martha Lloyd.(Image: BBC)
A ‘masterpiece’ period drama featuring Kris Marshall that has long been overlooked is now available to stream on ITV.
Doctor Zhivago was released in 2002, adapted from Boris Pasternak’s acclaimed 1957 novel of the same name, which had previously been adapted for cinema in 1965, reports the Mirror.
The 2002 series can currently be viewed on ITV and ITVX, where a synopsis states: “Having witnessed his father’s suicide, Yury is sent to live in Moscow with his uncle, aunt and cousin. Whilst there, he becomes captivated by a stunning young girl called Lara.”
The impressive ensemble cast features Hans Matheson as Yuri Zhivago, Keira Knightley in the role of Lara Guishar Antipova and Sam Neill as Victor Komarovsky. Further cast members include Kris Marshall portraying Pasha Antipov/Strelnikov, Celia Imrie as Anna Gromeko and Hugh Bonneville as Andrey Zhivago – among others.
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Doctor Zhivago was released in 2002, adapted from Boris Pasternak’s celebrated 1957 novel(Image: ITV)
Kris, 53, is perhaps most recognised for his performances in My Family and the beloved 2003 film Love Actually. Though in more recent times, he has gained widespread recognition as DI Humphrey Goodman through his appearances in Beyond Paradise and Death in Paradise.
Doctor Zhivago, directed by Giacomo Campiotti, holds an impressive 78% Rotten Tomatoes rating with countless viewers hailing it as a ‘masterpiece’. One viewer commented: “A masterpiece by Giacomo Campiotti”, adding: “It deserves an Oscar.”
Another viewer commented: “I have never seen the original Doctor Zhivago film, so I can’t take any prejudged bias. This mini-series is possibly the best UK mini-series I have ever seen and is a sign that perhaps the UK networks are serious about creating some top quality drama television that HBO have been producing for ages!”.
They continued: “Kris Marshall as Pacha is a welcome revelation, worlds away from the tired “My Family” ‘comedy’. The scene always looks great and you can see the time and effort (not to forget money! ) has gone into the creation of this great series. The overall look is very convincing and there is some beautiful theatrical-quality cinematography.”
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The drama is based on the book of the same name(Image: ITV)
Meanwhile, another viewer praised Kris’ performance, stating: “Kris Marshall turns in a stellar performance, truly suspending disbelief and losing himself in the role to deliver solid convincing work. It would be marvellous now to see him in further challenging roles!”.
A different admirer remarked: “A truly amazing performance comes from Kris Marshall who plays Strelnikof/ Pasha Antipof- I am in love with this man! ! I am now forever a fan. The film is thought-provoking, harrowing and heart-warming in equal measure. Watch this film!”.
The drama is even more poignant following the sad news of Sam Neill’s death.
It was confirmed earlier this week that Jurassic Park legend Sam had passed away at the age of 78. Sam sadly died after contracting pneumonia, according to a statement from his management.
