ANNA KARENINA (2000): SERIES 1

Helen McCrory (Penny Dreadful, Peaky Blinders) is "mesmerizing" (TV Guide) in this "breathtakingly sensual" (The Independent, UK) adaptation of Leo Tolstoy's timeless tale of love and betrayal in 19th century Russia. After a train journey to Moscow, married aristocrat Anna Karenina (McCrory) encounters dashing soldier Count Vronsky (Kevin McKidd, Grey's Anatomy, Trainspotting), and the two begin a passionate affair. With gossip rife among society's elite, Anna's husband (Stephen Dillane, Game of Thrones) discovers their indiscretions, setting off a fateful chain of events. Adapted by award-winning writer Allan Cubitt (The Fall), this "well-acted" (People) period drama offers a fresh perspective on the classic story with modern style and arresting visuals. The excellent ensemble cast also features Douglas Henshall (Shetland) as landowner Levin, unhappy suitor to the beautiful Princess Kitty (Paloma Baeza, Far from the Madding Crowd), and Mark Strong (Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, The Imitation Game) as Anna's womanizing brother, with Amanda Root (Persuasion) as his long-suffering wife.