Netflix has a great collection of period dramas that take us back in time, bringing us into stories full of love, power, and social issues. Whether you’re into beautiful costumes, historical drama, or touching stories, these shows offer a mix of all three. Here’s a list of some of the best period dramas on Netflix, along with my thoughts on each one.
1. Bridgerton
Bridgerton is undoubtedly one of Netflix’s most popular period dramas, known for its blend of romance, scandal, and high society intrigue. Based on Julia Quinn’s novels, it offers a dazzling portrayal of Regency-era England.
The story revolves around the Bridgerton family as the Bridgerton siblings navigate the treacherous waters of London’s marriage market. The story is narrated by Lady Whistledown, an anonymous writer who chronicles the events and drama among the wealthy families.
The show is as much about passion and love as it is about societal expectations, all set against the backdrop of a beautifully recreated 19th-century London. The visuals are stunning, with lavish costumes, vibrant colors, and exquisite settings that pull you into the world of dukes, duchesses, and royalty.
2. Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story
The Untold Love Story of Queen Charlotte and King George III
Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story may not have reached the same level of popularity as “Bridgerton,” but it is a gem in its own right. This short series, consisting of just six episodes, delves into Queen Charlotte’s early life, her journey from Germany to England, and her deep love for King George III. The series beautifully portrays a young queen navigating the challenges of a foreign court while highlighting the profound and enduring love between Charlotte and George.
3. The Cook of Castamar
The Cook of Castamar is a suspenseful and gripping drama set in 18th-century Spain. Based on the novel by Fernando J. Múñez, the series follows Clara Belmonte, the daughter of a disgraced nobleman who becomes a cook at the Castamar estate after her father is declared a traitor. Clara’s life takes a dramatic turn as she becomes entangled in the complex and perilous world of the Spanish aristocracy. The show skillfully blends elements of romance, mystery, and political intrigue, keeping viewers captivated. It’s also a visual delight, with meticulous attention to detail in the costumes, sets, and the culinary creations that are central to the story.
4. Anne with an E
Anne with an E is a delightful adaptation of Lucy Maud Montgomery’s classic novel “Anne of Green Gables.”
The series follows the adventures of Anne Shirley, an imaginative and talkative orphan who is mistakenly sent to live with Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert, an elderly brother and sister who had originally intended to adopt a boy to help with their farm in Avonlea. Initially, the Cuthberts plan to send Anne back, but her spirited personality and tragic past quickly win them over.
The series beautifully portrays Anne’s struggles to adjust to her new life, make friends, and find her place in the world. It also explores themes of identity, belonging, and the power of imagination. This sweet, coming-of-age story celebrates kindness, creativity, and the importance of finding where you truly belong
5. The Crown
The Crown is arguably one of the most critically acclaimed series on Netflix, offering a deep and nuanced portrayal of Queen Elizabeth II’s reign. The series spans multiple decades, chronicling the personal and political challenges the Queen faces as she navigates her duties as monarch. From the abdication crisis that led to her unexpected ascension to the throne to the ongoing struggle of balancing family and state, The Crown provides a gripping exploration of the complexities of power and the sacrifices it demands. The series is renowned for its meticulous attention to historical detail, with lavish recreations of royal events and intimate glimpses into the private lives of the British royal family.
6. A Suitable Boy
A Suitable Boy is an Indian drama series based on the novel by Vikram Seth. Set in post-independence India, the series follows the lives of four families as they navigate the shifting social and political landscape of the newly independent nation.
At the heart of the story is Lata Mehra, a young woman whose mother is determined to find her a suitable husband. The series beautifully captures the tension between tradition and modernity, as Lata struggles to balance her own desires with the expectations of her family and society. With stunning cinematography, vibrant colors, and exquisite costumes that reflect the diversity and beauty of Indian culture, “A Suitable Boy” is not just a love story, but a meditation on identity, family, and the search for meaning in a rapidly changing world.
7. Les Misérables
Les Misérables is a timeless classic based on Victor Hugo’s novel. The series adaptation captures the essence of Hugo’s epic tale of love, justice, and redemption set against the backdrop of revolutionary France. It follows several key characters, including Jean Valjean, a former convict seeking redemption; Inspector Javert, who is obsessed with bringing Valjean to justice; and Fantine, a young mother struggling to provide for her daughter. The series is a powerful exploration of the human condition, with themes of poverty, inequality, and the struggle for justice running throughout. It is beautifully shot, with a dark and gritty aesthetic that reflects the harsh realities of 19th-century France. “Les Misérables” is a deeply moving and thought-provoking series that resonates as strongly today as it did when the novel was first published.
8. Peaky Blinders
Peaky Blinders is a gripping crime drama set in the aftermath of World War I, chronicling the rise of the Shelby crime family in Birmingham, England. The story centers on Thomas Shelby, the ambitious and ruthless leader of the Peaky Blinders gang, as he seeks to expand his criminal empire while navigating conflicts both within his family and with external enemies. The series is renowned for its atmospheric depiction of post-war Britain, featuring a soundtrack that cleverly blends modern music with the period setting to create a distinctive and immersive experience. “Peaky Blinders” transcends the typical crime drama, offering a profound exploration of themes such as family loyalty and the extreme lengths individuals will go to achieve their ambitions.
Each of these series brings something special, from stunning settings and rich characters to deeply moving stories. Whether you crave romance, suspense, or historical drama, these period dramas will captivate and entertain. Grab some popcorn, get comfy, and let Netflix transport you through time.
Happy Watching!
