My Latest Obsession: Mr. Selfridge

From time to time, I like to post about my latest obsession. In the past it's been The Lizzie Bennet Diaries and Outlander to name a few, but lately it has been Mr. Selfridge on PBS. 

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Thanks to Amazon Instant Video, I was able to catch up and am now on season two, which means I will hopefully be caught up by the time season three premieres on PBS in March.

What I Love About It:

• Jeremy Piven is brilliant as Mr. Selfridge.  I've loved Jeremy Piven since he played Ari on Entourage. As Mr. Selfridge, he's charismatic, flamboyant, confidant and a go-getter. Plus, he knows how to dress! I don't agree with how he handles his romantic life; however, I can't deny that his successes and missteps are downright entertaining. The  speeches he gives to his employees make ME want to work for him.
• The time period is fantastic. It starts in 1908 and the second series is set in 1914. The costumes, the changing fashions, the setting of London, the issues surrounding the different classes, and the imminent danger of war all make for a captivating time period.
• It's a show that's about more than just Mr. Selfridge. There is his wife, Rose, trying to find her way in London; after all, they are Americans. Where do they fit in exactly? Also, she doesn't just want to always be in Selfridge's shadow. There's also Agnes, an up and coming employee at Selfridges. I love her and have been rooting for her since the beginning. And who doesn't love a haughty aristocrat thrown into the mix? Lady Mae is brilliant on this show.
• The opening music is perfect. I adore it and I guess other people do as well, because it was nominated for an Emmy. It captures the show and the Selfridge department store very well.
• Fans of Downton Abbey will really enjoy this show as it gives you another perspective on life during the early 1900s.  Through this show you get a better glimpse into life for the average Joe as opposed to Downton's view of only the upstairs/downstairs. Plus, there's the issue of women gaining more freedom during this time period, so that's interesting to watch it all unfold.
• I love that Mr. Selfridge is an American and a fish out of water sometimes in London. He has to prove himself to society, so it's been very compelling.

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Anyone else a fan of Mr. Selfridge? I only half way through season two, so don't share any spoilers with me, but let me know what you like about the show! If you haven't checked it out yet, I encourage you to do so if historical dramas are your cup of tea or if you need something to keep you entertained once Downton Abbey season five is over.