My Uncle Silas

In 1901, a middle-class schoolboy whose parents are working abroad spends his summer in Bedfordshire with his great-uncle Silas. Though sixty years old, Silas relishes life—he’s a womaniser, drinker, and a poacher. At the prompting of his long-suffering housekeeper, Mrs Betts, he takes on the occasional odd job.

Directed by H. E. Bates, My Uncle Silas leans on a strong ensemble — Albert Finney, Sue Johnston, Joe Prospero — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The series landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about drama titles of 2001.