The Musketeers Series 1 & 2 (BBC)

Based loosely on the Dumas novel, this series starts with a clunk rather than a bang with some dodgy dialogue and clumsy set-up. It warms up after the first few episodes and starts to match the lively theme music. The casting is interesting – Peter Capaldi is far more suited to play the scheming Robespierre than Dr Who, so it is a pity he opted for the latter after the first series. Luke Pasqualino gets his shirt off rather a lot, which enhances his smouldering performance as D’Artagnan. The individual backstories of the main three Musketeers are nicely explored and used to develop depth to the overarching storyline of 17th century French royal political intrigue. Ladies’ man Aramis, troubled leader Athos and slumdog made good Porthos grow in appeal throughout and there is something satisfying about men in leather brandishing swords. The costumes and staging are meticulous and beautiful, adding a layer of authenticity to proceedings. The exquisite backdrop of the Czech Republic is a convincing stand-in for Paris and its surrounds. Series two takes on a rather wild west vibe alongside the Parisian political intrigue, with the superhero musketeers winning through the shoot-ups and sword fights with barely a scratch. Marc Warren creates a nicely evil villain in Rochefort, but the second series is notable for its strong women characters. Queen Anne, Constance and Milady are all given room to grow and develop and they are joined by some interesting minor players. The music is wonderful, supporting but never overwhelming the narrative.