House of Cards

[Dr Jekyll]

I've just been comparing the UK version and the 1st series of the US version. At first glance the US version looks better, a very naturalistic style as opposed to the overly stylised UK version, and the photography is great. But the trouble is it's so slow. The UK one is deceptively fast paced, it looks laid back but every scene matters, but there are entire episodes which could be cut out of the US series without affecting the story.

What are the later US series like?

[Nick Grant]

Dr Jekyll said:

I've just been comparing the UK version and the 1st series of the US version. At first glance the US version looks better, a very naturalistic style as opposed to the overly stylised UK version, and the photography is great. But the trouble is it's so slow. The UK one is deceptively fast paced, it looks laid back but every scene matters, but there are entire episodes which could be cut out of the US series without affecting the story.

Agree, surely the first time ever that something has been Americanised and toned down compared to the UK version LOL

[Dr Jekyll]

I've now watched the second series of the Netflix House of Cards and revised my opinion. It's now really good, if padded out at times.

I've also just got the DVD of 'To play the King'.

Hmm, 1993 and a divorced Princess reckons that Buckingham Palace have threatened an 'accident' if she steps out of line, a male MP is found to have been fiddling with little boys, and a close aide to King Charles the third turns out to be gay.

Where do they get these ideas?

[ASK1974]

This is one of the only series I've gone back to for a second sitting, some of the best TV I've had the pleasure of watching. A classic IMO. Need to see the UK original.

[ZesPak]

Started watching it yesterday with the OH. Despite the topic and her expectations (politics, meh) she loved it.
We binge-watched 6 episodes last night.

The writing is brilliant but it would all be in vain without Spacey carrying this vessel. He can pull off all the OTT stuff with it looking... too OTT.

It's a nice insight in inner (US) party politics as far as it goes as well.

Loving it, can't wait to watch some more tonight!

[RustyBison]

It's a great series and Kevin Spacey is awesome in it, I was very hooked!

[Miguel Alvarez]

Just starting this. I like it so far although I'm not sure why. I don't particuarly like any of the characters so far.

[ZesPak]

Miguel Alvarez said:

Just starting this. I like it so far although I'm not sure why. I don't particuarly like any of the characters so far.

You're not supposed to I think, most of them are politicians .

I like Freddy though .

[Miguel Alvarez]

ZesPak said:

Miguel Alvarez said:

Just starting this. I like it so far although I'm not sure why. I don't particuarly like any of the characters so far.

You're not supposed to I think, most of them are politicians .

I like Freddy though .

Lol point taken and yeah he's ok so far.

[Butter Face]

Season 3 starts Feb 27th. I can't wait.

Truly one of the best shows I've ever watched.

[vrsmxtb]

Only just got round to adding this to my rental list. Season 1 had a slow start, but I am really enjoying Season 2 at the moment. Almost Shakespearean twists and turns, and I love the Underwoods as TV villains.
WITHOUT any spoilers, does Season 3 carry on the standard?

[JungleJim]

season 3 doesn't come out until the end of feb....

[esuuv]

Season 3 isn't out yet - another 4 weeks to wait..........

[BlackLabel]

Oops.

"Netflix releases new series of House of Cards – and then takes it down"

http://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2015/feb/1...

[B.J.W]

I've just finished watching the UK series back to back. I did not enjoy The Final Cut first time round, but enjoyed it more than To Play The King. It's my 4th viewing - House of Cards is brilliant TV, albeit of its time. How does the U.S. series genuinely compare? I'm lining up a new Netflix series once we have finished Breaking Bad (which I left late to watch). If it's not worth watching I might see if I can get Mrs B.J.W to sit down and work through my box sets of The Wire or The Shield, as I fancy giving them another go....

Having said that, Better Call Saul looks promising...

decisions, decisions

[ZesPak]

B.J.W said:

I've just finished watching the UK series back to back. I did not enjoy The Final Cut first time round, but enjoyed it more than To Play The King. It's my 4th viewing - House of Cards is brilliant TV, albeit of its time. How does the U.S. series genuinely compare? I'm lining up a new Netflix series once we have finished Breaking Bad (which I left late to watch). If it's not worth watching I might see if I can get Mrs B.J.W to sit down and work through my box sets of The Wire or The Shield, as I fancy giving them another go....

Having said that, Better Call Saul looks promising...

decisions, decisions

I can't compare it to the original, but it is great television, expertly written.

Another Netflex original that's well worth a watch: Orange is the new Black.

[Art0ir]

Just started watching this, very enjoyable. Kavin Spacey is one of my favourite actors which helps!

[Fishtigua]

I think it's stunning. Season 3 starts on the 27th Feb.

[Turbodiesel1976]

I'm going to join Netflix just to watch season 3, brilliant brilliant show

[BlackLabel]

I've only just remembered that this series is released in it's entirety on the same day. So no need for the weekly wait.

Not long now then - will be out on Fri!