Still, a wise decision to end on an upbeat note with another one of James’ trademark surprise conclusions, Affairs of the Heart is a wonderfully exquisite glimpse into some of his major works and while there can and nor there should be no substitute for actually reading them for yourself (save for skimming over his pages-long descriptions that make one’s eyes close in Portrait of a Lady), it’s a remarkable addition to a book lover’s DVD library.
Far superior to any of the filmed adaptations of James’ work that I’ve seen so far made for the big screen, Affairs of the Heart immerses us into each individual setting within seconds, finding its footing quickly to bring us into each tale until we not only feel fully invested but complicit in the goings-on, wishing we could offer a warning or congratulate characters if happiness finds them in the end. Made in the same British television heyday as my personal favorite Upstairs, Downstairs, this must-own two-disc set running approximately 351 minutes and featuring cast filmographies and a James biography, think of Affairs as the ultimate soap opera for thespians and bookworms and a great choice for early holiday shoppers.
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