A Little Princess Tv Series 1973 Youtube
To understand the 1973 version, you have to look at the landscape of 1970s British children’s television. The BBC was producing a renowned strand of classic adaptations under the banner "BBC Sunday Classic Serials." These were low-budget but high-integrity productions, designed to air in the teatime slot to educate and enchant young viewers.
Produced by the legendary Anna Home (who later worked on The Snowman and The Chronicles of Narnia), the 1973 A Little Princess was a faithful, serialized retelling. Unlike the Hollywood musicals, this version adhered strictly to the novel's somber, Victorian tone.
In the vast landscape of literary adaptations, few stories have captured the enduring power of imagination and grace under pressure quite like Frances Hodgson Burnett’s 1905 novel, A Little Princess. While many audiences are familiar with the 1995 Warner Bros. film starring Liesel Matthews or the 1939 Shirley Temple classic, there is a forgotten treasure that holds a special place in the hearts of British television historians: The 1973 BBC Miniseries A Little Princess.
For decades, this six-episode adaptation was considered lost to time—vaulted in archives and unavailable on modern streaming services. However, thanks to the democratization of vintage media, a new generation of viewers is discovering it via digital preservation. The search term "A Little Princess TV Series 1973 YouTube" has become a beacon for nostalgia seekers and literary purists. But is it there? And is it worth the watch? Let’s dive deep into the history of this rare series and guide you through finding it online.
If you watched this as a child, I can almost guarantee that just reading the title triggered the theme music in your head.
The score, composed by Dennis Vaak, is hauntingly beautiful. It captures the melancholy of Sara’s fall from grace while maintaining a thread of hope. It is simple, repetitive, and unforgettable. Watching the episodes on YouTube is worth it just to hear that opening synth-flute melody again; it is an instant time machine back to 1973.
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Key scenes to analyze:
Introduction
Long before Alfonso Cuarón’s 1995 film adaptation introduced Sara Crewe to a new generation, the BBC produced a six-part serialization of Frances Hodgson Burnett’s beloved novel, A Little Princess. Aired in 1973, this relatively obscure adaptation has found a second life in the digital age, preserved and shared by dedicated fans on YouTube. While lacking the high production value of later films, the 1973 series holds a unique historical and emotional value, largely thanks to its faithful adaptation and the accessibility granted by the world’s largest video-sharing platform.
Summary of the 1973 Series
The 1973 BBC series, directed by Derek Martinus and written by Alistair Bell, remains one of the most textually loyal adaptations of Burnett’s 1905 novel. It stars Amelia Shankley as Sara Crewe, a wealthy young girl left at Miss Minchin’s boarding school in London while her father serves in the British Army in India. The series meticulously follows the novel’s plot: Sara’s fall from grace after her father’s sudden death and bankruptcy, her cruel demotion to a scullery maid, and her ultimate redemption through the mysterious “magic” of the invalid gentleman next door, Mr. Carrisford. The 1973 version is notable for its stark, realistic portrayal of Sara’s suffering—her cold attic room and endless drudgery are depicted with a gritty, documentary-like style typical of early 1970s BBC children’s drama.
The Role of YouTube in Preservation
For decades, this series was considered “lost” or inaccessible to all but the most dedicated archive television enthusiasts. Commercial VHS or DVD releases were never widely distributed outside the UK, and the BBC has rarely repeated it. YouTube has changed this entirely. Through user-uploaded episodes, often restored from aging off-air recordings or old VHS tapes, the 1973 A Little Princess has been rediscovered by a global audience.
As of today, a search for “A Little Princess TV series 1973 YouTube” yields several complete or nearly complete playlists. These uploads are typically grainy, with faded color palettes and occasional tracking lines, but they are remarkably watchable. The comment sections beneath these videos are filled with viewers expressing nostalgia, gratitude, and critical analysis, creating an impromptu online community. One typical comment reads: “I watched this as a child in Australia in 1975. I never thought I would see it again. Thank you.” In this way, YouTube functions not just as a streaming service, but as a digital archive and a communal viewing space for forgotten television history.
Critical Assessment of the Adaptation
How does the 1973 version compare to other adaptations? For purists, it is often considered the gold standard. Unlike the 1995 film, which added a fantasy subplot (the magical necklace and the dramatic rescue from the attic), the 1973 series hews closely to Burnett’s original character-driven story. Amelia Shankley’s Sara is less theatrical than Liesel Matthews’s film version; she is quieter, more internally resilient, and genuinely vulnerable. Her performance captures the essence of Burnett’s heroine: a child who uses imagination and politeness as shields against cruelty. The series also does not shy away from the novel’s harsher elements, including the emotional neglect and physical labor Sara endures. For many viewers on YouTube, this raw honesty is precisely why the 1973 adaptation remains superior.
Conclusion
The 1973 BBC television series A Little Princess is a remarkable artifact of children’s television. Its continued existence and popularity are largely owed to YouTube, which has rescued it from the dustbin of broadcast history. While modern viewers may initially be put off by the dated production quality, those who watch discover a deeply moving and faithful rendition of Burnett’s classic. The grainy, user-uploaded episodes on YouTube serve as a testament to the story’s timeless power and to the digital platform’s unexpected role as an archive of cultural memory. For any serious fan of A Little Princess, seeking out the 1973 series on YouTube is not just a viewing choice—it is an act of historical preservation.
1973 BBC television adaptation A Little Princess is currently considered a "lost" or highly restricted piece of media, with very limited footage available on
. Although the series has not been seen by the public since its original broadcast, it is officially archived at the British Film Institute Key Details of the 1973 Series
: A six-part miniseries that aired from February 18 to March 25, 1973, on
: This version is widely noted for being one of the most faithful adaptations of Frances Hodgson Burnett’s original 1905 novel Deborah Makepeace as Sara Crewe. Gaynor Hodgson Ruth Dunning as Miss Minchin. Where to Find Clips and Information Rare Trailer : You can view a rare 1973 BBC Trailer/TV Spot
on YouTube, which provides a brief glimpse of the production. Archival Status
: While some rumors suggested the tapes were wiped, it is confirmed to be held in the British Film Institute (BFI) archives BBC's digital archive Availability : There is a long-standing campaign
and a petition to have this specific version released on DVD or streaming platforms like iPlayer. Alternative Versions on YouTube
Because the 1973 version is hard to find, YouTube often features other adaptations that are sometimes mislabeled: 1986/1987 Miniseries
: Starring Amelia Shankley and Maureen Lipman, this version is frequently available in full playlists
: Various animated "Little Princess" series (such as the 2006 children's show) are also widely available but are unrelated to the 1973 drama other faithful adaptations of the novel that are currently available to stream?
The 1973 BBC adaptation of A Little Princess is highly regarded by fans on IMDb for its exceptional fidelity to the original 1905 novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett. Unlike more "sugary" film versions, this six-part miniseries is praised for its grounded and emotionally resonant portrayal of Sara Crewe's resilience. 📺 Series Features
Format: A six-episode miniseries, with each episode running approximately 25 minutes.
Original Airing: It debuted on BBC1 in the prestigious "Sunday teatime" slot from February 18 to March 25, 1973. a little princess tv series 1973 youtube
Tone: Noted for being more realistic and less "Hollywood" than other adaptations, focusing on the harsh realities of Victorian boarding schools.
Production: Directed by Derek Martinus (known for Doctor Who) and adapted by Jeremy Paul, as detailed on Wikipedia. 🎭 Key Cast Members
The series featured a strong ensemble of British talent, many of whom went on to long careers in television: Deborah Makepeace : Starred as Sara Crewe in her professional acting debut. Ruth Dunning
: Portrayed the cold and calculating headmistress, Miss Minchin. Lesley Dunlop
: Played the loyal but dim-witted friend Ermengarde St. John. Alison Glennie
: Played the antagonist student Lavinia Herbert. You can read a retrospective interview with the actress on We Are Cult. Gaynor Hodgson : Played the overworked scullery maid, Becky. 🔍 Where to Watch (YouTube & Streaming)
Finding this specific 1973 version can be challenging because it is often confused with the 1986 miniseries starring Amelia Shankley.
YouTube Playlists: You can find rare clips and full episodes on YouTube through dedicated period drama channels.
Availability Note: While long rumored to be lost, the series is officially archived at the British Film Institute (BFI). Enthusiasts on forums like Missing Episodes frequently discuss efforts to bring it to a wider audience.
Confusion Warning: Most commercial streaming services (like Prime Video or Tubi) typically host the 1986 version or the 1995 Alfonso Cuarón film. Always check the cast list to ensure you have the 1973 production. If you're interested, I can: Find comparison reviews between the 1973 and 1986 versions. Locate specific behind-the-scenes trivia about the filming. Provide a detailed episode guide for the six-part series.
Let me know how you'd like to continue exploring this classic adaptation! AI responses may include mistakes. Learn more
The 1973 BBC adaptation of A Little Princess is widely regarded as one of the most faithful screen versions of Frances Hodgson Burnett’s 1905 classic novel. Originally broadcast in six 25-minute episodes on BBC1 between February 18 and March 25, 1973, this production capture the Victorian era's stark class divides through the eyes of its resilient young protagonist, Sara Crewe. Production and Legacy
Directed by Derek Martinus, known for his work on Doctor Who, the series was dramatized by Jeremy Paul. While many adaptations, such as the famous 1939 Shirley Temple film or the 1995 Alfonso Cuarón movie, take significant creative liberties with the plot and setting, the 1973 version is celebrated for adhering closely to the original text.
For decades, the series was considered "lost media" due to the BBC's historical practice of wiping master tapes. However, it is currently archived at the British Film Institute (BFI), and rare kinescope footage and trailers have occasionally surfaced on platforms like YouTube. Cast of the 1973 Serial
The production featured a distinguished cast of British talent:
Deborah Makepeace as Sara Crewe: Making her screen debut, Makepeace portrayed the "virtuous and imaginative" heroine whose life upends after her father’s death.
Ruth Dunning as Miss Minchin: The "archetypal wicked school mistress" who forces Sara into servitude.
Gaynor Hodgson as Becky: The young scullery maid who becomes Sara's loyal friend.
Lesley Dunlop as Ermengarde St. John: A fellow student and one of Sara's few allies at the school.
Alison Glennie as Lavinia: The school’s "Edwardian mean girl" and Sara’s primary antagonist among the students.
Donald Pickering as Captain Crewe: Sara’s devoted father, whose financial ruin in African diamond mines triggers the central conflict. Plot Summary
The series follows Sara Crewe, a wealthy girl raised in India who is sent to Miss Minchin’s Select Seminary for Young Ladies in London. Initially treated as a "show pupil" because of her father's vast fortune, Sara's world shatters on her eleventh birthday when news arrives of her father's death and financial bankruptcy.
Miss Minchin, resenting Sara's previous status, strips her of her possessions and moves her to a cold attic room, forcing her to work as a drudge servant. Sara survives this cruelty through her vivid imagination—pretending she is a princess in disguise—and the unexpected kindness of a "mysterious benefactor" living next door.
The 1973 TV series "A Little Princess" is a beloved adaptation of Frances Hodgson Burnett's classic novel of the same name. The story revolves around Sara Crewe, a young and imaginative girl who is enrolled in a prestigious boarding school in London by her wealthy father.
When her father dies, Sara's life is turned upside down as she is forced to become a servant at the school. Despite her hardships, Sara's kindness, creativity, and resilience inspire those around her, and she befriends some of the other girls at the school.
The TV series, like the novel, explores themes of friendship, perseverance, and the power of imagination. Sara's journey from a privileged life to a more humble existence is portrayed with sensitivity and care, making the series a heartwarming and engaging watch for audiences of all ages.
The adaptation of "A Little Princess" into a TV series in 1973 demonstrates the enduring popularity of Burnett's story. The series likely brought the classic tale to a new generation of viewers, introducing them to Sara's adventures and the lessons she learns along the way.
In the context of the 1970s, the TV series may have also reflected changing societal values and attitudes towards education, class, and personal growth. The portrayal of Sara's experiences and her relationships with the other characters could have resonated with audiences looking for stories about empowerment, self-discovery, and the importance of human connections.
The availability of the 1973 TV series on YouTube has made it accessible to a new audience, allowing viewers to discover and rediscover the charm of "A Little Princess." The series serves as a nostalgic reminder of the past, while its themes and messages continue to be relevant today.
Overall, the 1973 TV series "A Little Princess" is a delightful and engaging adaptation of a timeless classic. Its exploration of universal themes and its memorable characters have made it a beloved favorite among audiences, and its availability on YouTube ensures that it will continue to be enjoyed by viewers for years to come.
The 1973 BBC production of A Little Princess remains a significant entry in the history of Victorian-era literary adaptations, even as it sits in a peculiar state of digital availability. Directed by Derek Martinus and dramatized by Jeremy Paul, this six-part miniseries originally aired on BBC1 between February 18 and March 25, 1973. Why the 1973 Version is a "Lost Classic" To understand the 1973 version, you have to
For many fans of Frances Hodgson Burnett’s 1905 novel, the 1973 version is considered the most faithful to the source material. Unlike the better-known 1995 feature film, which relocated the story to New York during World War I, the 1973 series stayed true to the Victorian London setting and the specific beats of Sara Crewe's descent from "show pupil" to kitchen maid. Plot and Cast
The series follows Sara Crewe, a wealthy, imaginative girl raised in India who is sent to Miss Minchin's Select Seminary for Young Ladies in London. When her father, Captain Crewe, dies penniless, the cruel headmistress strips Sara of her belongings and forces her into a life of servitude. The cast featured notable British talent: Deborah Makepeace as Sara Crewe (in her professional debut) Ruth Dunning as the cold and mercenary Miss Minchin
Lesley Dunlop as the loyal but slow-witted Ermengarde St. John
Gaynor Hodgson as Becky, the scullery maid and Sara's fellow sufferer Alison Glennie as Lavinia, the school's "mean girl" The YouTube & Availability Dilemma
If you are searching for the 1973 series on YouTube, you may encounter several common obstacles: Book to Film: A Little Princess - ALSC Blog
The 1973 BBC television serial A Little Princess tells the story of young Sara Crewe, who transforms from a wealthy student into a scullery maid at a strict boarding school following her father’s death. Based on the novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett, the six-part series follows Sara’s resilience as she maintains her dignity and imagination while suffering under the cruel Miss Minchin, eventually gaining a new life through the help of a mysterious neighbor.
While the full 1973 series is rarely found, you can watch clips on YouTube or learn more about the production from the British Film Institute. A Little Princess (TV Series 1973– ) - IMDb
I can’t provide or link to copyrighted episodes, but here are safe options to find the 1973 TV series "A Little Princess":
Related search suggestions (you can copy these into YouTube or a search engine):
A Little Princess (1973): The Definitive BBC Classic Before the big-budget movies, there was the 1973 BBC miniseries—often cited by fans as the most faithful adaptation of Frances Hodgson Burnett’s beloved novel. Starring Amelia Shankley
as Sara Crewe, this six-part masterpiece captured the hearts of a generation with its poignant storytelling and Victorian atmosphere.
Sara Crewe, a young girl with an extraordinary imagination and a wealthy father, is sent to a London boarding school. When tragedy strikes and her fortune vanishes, she is forced into servitude by the cold, calculating headmistress, Miss Minchin. Despite the hunger and cold, Sara survives by holding onto her dignity and her belief that "every girl is a princess." Why It Stands Out Book Accuracy:
Unlike later versions, this series sticks closely to the original dialogue and the bittersweet tone of the 1905 book. Stellar Performances:
Amelia Shankley delivers a nuanced Sara, while Maureen Lipman’s portrayal of Miss Minchin is legendary for its icy perfection. Nostalgic Charm:
For many, this is the "definitive" version, remembered for its cozy but stark 1970s BBC production style. Watch It on YouTube
Thanks to dedicated archivists, you can find the complete 1973 series uploaded on YouTube. It’s a perfect binge-watch for those who love classic period dramas or want to rediscover a childhood favorite. or perhaps a comparison between this version and the 1986 or 1995 adaptations? AI responses may include mistakes. Learn more
The 1973 BBC television adaptation of A Little Princess is a highly regarded, six-part serial. While full episodes are currently difficult to find on mainstream streaming due to its archival status at the British Film Institute, you can find rare clips and trailers on YouTube. Series Overview Original Run: 18 February – 25 March 1973. Format: Six 25-minute episodes.
Starring: Deborah Makepeace as Sara Crewe and Ruth Dunning as Miss Minchin. Director: Derek Martinus. What Makes This Version Unique
This adaptation is widely considered the most faithful to Frances Hodgson Burnett's original 1905 novel. Unlike some film versions that added Hollywood-style subplots, this series stays true to the Victorian London setting and Sara’s internal journey of maintaining her "princess" spirit through poverty and mistreatment. Episode Guide
Arrival: Sara Crewe, a wealthy officer's daughter, arrives at Miss Minchin's Select Seminary for Young Ladies in London.
The Show Pupil: Sara is treated as a prize student due to her father's wealth.
The News: Tragic news arrives that Sara's father has died penniless.
Servitude: Miss Minchin forces Sara to work as a drudge in the school to pay off her debts.
The Magic: Sara’s life is secretly improved by a mysterious neighbor, making her believe in "magic".
Restoration: Sara's father's business partner finds her, and her fortune and status are restored. Where to Watch A Little Princess (TV Series 1973– ) - IMDb
The 1973 BBC television adaptation of A Little Princess is widely regarded as one of the most faithful screen versions of Frances Hodgson Burnett’s classic novel. Directed by Derek Bennett and starring Deborah Makepeace
as Sara Crewe, this six-part miniseries captures the Victorian atmosphere and the emotional gravity of Sara's journey from "the show pupil" to a penniless scullery maid Production Overview
Unlike the more stylized Hollywood versions (such as the 1939 Shirley Temple film or the 1995 Alfonso Cuarón version), the 1973 series adheres strictly to the source material. It was produced during an era of BBC literary adaptations known for high-quality acting and scripts that didn't shy away from the darker themes of poverty and mistreatment in Victorian London. Key Plot Elements The Fall from Grace
: Sara Crewe is a wealthy, imaginative girl sent to Miss Minchin's Select Seminary for Young Ladies. When her father, Captain Crewe, dies in India and is believed to have lost his fortune, the cruel Miss Minchin forces Sara into a life of drudgery. Resilience and Imagination
: The series emphasizes Sara’s internal strength. She maintains her dignity by "pretending" she is still a princess even when cold and hungry, a core message of self-worth that defines the character. The Indian Gentleman
: The mystery of the neighbor next door—Mr. Carrisford—and his servant Ram Dass is handled with the slow-burn pacing typical of 1970s British television, leading to the eventual restoration of Sara's inheritance. Availability on YouTube Key scenes to analyze: Introduction Long before Alfonso
While not officially "streaming" in the modern sense, the 1973 series has gained a second life on
, where fans of vintage British drama often upload the episodes. These uploads are typically split into six parts, reflecting the original broadcast structure. Finding them usually requires searching for "A Little Princess 1973 BBC" or "A Little Princess Deborah Makepeace." Why it Stands Out Faithfulness : It includes characters often cut from movies, such as
, the beggar girl to whom Sara gives her bread—a pivotal moment demonstrating her compassion. Performance
: Deborah Makepeace’s portrayal is often cited by fans as the "definitive" Sara because she balances the character's precocious intelligence with genuine vulnerability. Atmosphere
: The production uses traditional studio sets and location filming that perfectly evoke the "London fog" aesthetic of the book. from the series, or would you like a comparison between this version and the 1986 or 1995 adaptations?
Finding the 1973 BBC adaptation A Little Princess on YouTube can be tricky because it is considered a "rare" or "lost" gem of British television. Unlike the more common 1986 miniseries or the 1939 Shirley Temple film, this specific version was not widely released on home media. Where to Find It on YouTube
Since there is no official full-series upload from the BBC, you will likely find this version through fan-curated channels: Search Terms: Use specific keywords like "A Little Princess 1973 BBC" "Deborah Makepeace A Little Princess" "A Little Princess 1973 episode 1" Playlists: Look for playlists titled A Little Princess | The Mini Series
or similar. Note that some uploads may be dubbed in other languages (like Persian) due to its international broadcast history. Clips and Tributes:
You can find rare production photos and short clips on memorial channels, such as those dedicated to lead actress Deborah Makepeace Series Quick Facts 6 episodes, approximately 25 minutes each. Original Air Date: February 18 – March 25, 1973, on BBC 1. Sara Crewe: Deborah Makepeace Miss Minchin: Ruth Dunning Ermengarde: Lesley Dunlop Alison Glennie Why Is It Hard to Find?
Alison Glennie talks: 'A Little Princess' at 50 » We Are Cult
The 1973 BBC adaptation of A Little Princess is often cited by purists as the most faithful screen version of Frances Hodgson Burnett’s classic 1905 novel. Originally broadcast in six 25-minute episodes during the BBC’s Sunday tea-time slot, this miniseries remains a nostalgic touchstone for viewers who value its adherence to the book's Edwardian tone over the more "sugary" Hollywood reimaginings. Production and Cast
Directed by Derek Martinus and adapted for television by Jeremy Paul, the series captures the stark contrast between the luxury of Sara Crewe's early life and the grim reality of her later servitude.
Sara Crewe (Deborah Makepeace): Making her screen debut, Makepeace was praised for portraying Sara as a virtuous and imaginative heroine who maintains her dignity through hardship.
Miss Minchin (Ruth Dunning): Dunning played the "wicked school mistress" with a chilling, archetypal severity.
Ermengarde (Lesley Dunlop): Before becoming a major British TV star, Dunlop played the dim-witted but loyal Ermengarde.
Lavinia (Alison Glennie): Glennie’s performance as the "Edwardian mean girl" is frequently remembered as one of the show's boldest roles. Plot Overview
The story follows Sara Crewe, a wealthy, imaginative girl raised in India who is sent to a London boarding school by her father, Captain Crewe. Sara is initially treated like a "little princess" due to her father's wealth, but her world shatters when he dies penniless. Miss Minchin instantly strips Sara of her status, forcing her to work as a servant and live in a freezing attic. Sara relies on her rich imagination and the kindness of friends like the scullery maid, Becky, to survive until a mysterious neighbor eventually comes to her rescue. Where to Watch
While the series was once considered difficult to find, it has gained a second life online.
YouTube: You can find the full series through unofficial uploads. The channel FamilyTime hosts a playlist of all six episodes.
Archives: According to the BFI (British Film Institute) , the original masters have been preserved and were never "wiped," though they haven't seen a modern official digital release.
It sounds like you’re pointing to a fascinating essay topic: the 1973 BBC adaptation of A Little Princess (often called The Little Princess), which is available on YouTube.
Since I can’t browse YouTube or access specific videos directly, I can help you write or think through that essay. Here’s a structured outline based on what is known about that rare, largely forgotten adaptation.
For fans searching for "A Little Princess TV Series 1973," you are likely looking for a specific flavor that modern adaptations miss.
1. The Grittiness: The 1973 BBC production does not shy away from the poverty. Sara’s hunger, the cold of the attic, and Miss Minchin’s cruelty (played with chilling perfection by Margery Withers) feel visceral. There is no magical realism—no sudden flights of fancy or visions of foxes. The "magic" is purely psychological: Sara’s mind is her castle.
2. Authentic Period Detail: Budget constraints of the 70s ironically work in the show's favor. The studio sets look like a Victorian stage play, giving it an intimate, claustrophobic feel. The costumes are era-appropriate and often drab, reinforcing the misery of Sara’s life as a drudge.
3. Amelia Shankley as Sara: While Liesel Matthews and Shirley Temple are iconic, Shankley looks exactly like the Sara from the original illustrations. She has large, dark Victorian eyes and a thin, waif-like frame. She embodies the "martyr" quality of the character without being saccharine.
For the casual viewer spoiled by the high production values of the 1995 Warner Bros. film (with its lavish sets and Michael Richards’ comedic relief), the 1973 BBC series may feel slow, dark, and "cheap."
But for the purist—for the adult who read the novel as a child and imagined the creaking floorboards of the seminary—this is the definitive adaptation.
The search for "A Little Princess TV Series 1973 YouTube" is not just about finding a video file. It is an act of archaeological salvage. It is about finding a version of Sara Crewe who does not have a Hollywood orchestral swell telling you when to cry, but rather a little girl in a frayed dress, shivering in a dark attic, whispering to herself: "If I am a princess in rags and tatters, I can be a princess inside."
Final Recommendation: Open YouTube. Type in the keyword. Sit through the wobbly intro with the grainy BBC logo. Listen for the clunky sound of the 1970s piano score. If you are lucky enough to find a playlist that hasn't been removed, settle in for six hours of the most faithful, heartbreaking, and ultimately uplifting version of A Little Princess ever made.
Have you seen the 1973 version? Share your memories of watching it on broadcast television or links to active YouTube playlists in the comments below.