The 60+ Best Costume Drama TV Shows
- 1Colin Firth, Jennifer Ehle, Crispin Bonham-Carter
Watch This Show If You Love: Sense and Sensibility, Northanger Abbey, Mansfield Park, Persuasion, Middlemarch
Why Should I Stream? This timeless period drama breathes life into Jane Austen's cherished novel, presenting viewers with wit, romance, and social commentary in equal measure. With exceptional performances, particularly Colin Firth's memorable take on Mr. Darcy, this adaptation has secured its place in the hearts of British literature enthusiasts. Beautiful settings, intricate costumes, and riveting storylines transport viewers to the resplendent Regency era.A dramatization of Jane Austen's novel.More Pride and Prejudice
- Dig Deeper...The Best Books Inspired by Pride and Prejudice
- #146 of 657 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- #335 of 447 onThe 440+ Best Binge Worthy Shows Of All Time
- 2Elle Fanning, Nicholas Hoult, Phoebe Fox
Watch This Show If You Love: Catherine the Great, The Favourite (movie), The Crown, Victoria, The Tudors
Why Should I Stream? This satirical take on the life of Catherine the Great offers a fresh perspective on historical dramas with its dark humor, lavish sets, and captivating performances led by Elle Fanning and Nicholas Hoult. A stylish fusion of fact and fiction, The Great provides an entertaining glimpse into the tumultuous world of Russian royalty while emphasizing its protagonist's quest for power. It's an addictive show that pushes boundaries while injecting levity into the often serious period drama genre.A genre-bending, anti-historical ride through 18th-century Russia.More The Great- #7 of 30 onNew TV Shows Of The Last Few Years With The Best Overall Acting
- #33 of 1,056 onThe 250+ Best Streaming Shows Of The Last Few Years
- #181 of 202 onThe TV Shows With The Best Writing
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NEW#55Mary & George- NEW#53Franklin
- 3Daniela Denby-Ashe, Richard Armitage, Tim Pigott-Smith
Watch This Show If You Love: Wives and Daughters, Cranford, The Mill on the Floss, Daniel Deronda, The Forsyte Saga
Why Should I Stream? Combining a stirring love story with the turbulent backdrop of class conflict in Victorian England, North & South offers an absorbing look at historical social dynamics through vivid characters and potent dialogue. This BBC adaptation enhances Elizabeth Gaskell's novel while showcasing remarkable acting talent and stunning cinematography. A compelling period drama that leaves a lasting impression with its potent mix of romance and tension.A middle-class Southerner Margaret Hale, relocates to the north of England and struggles to fit in.More North & South- #26 of 185 onThe 150+ Best Historical Drama TV Shows
- #13 of 139 onThe 101 Best Period Piece TV Shows
- #6 of 72 onThe 65+ Best Victorian Era Shows, Ranked
- 4Caitriona Balfe, Sam Heughan, Sophie Skelton
Watch This Show If You Love: Poldark, Versailles, Harlots, Black Sails, Vikings
Why Should I Stream? Outlander presents a sweeping tale of time travel that skillfully intertwines historical fiction, romance, and adventure in a richly detailed setting. Based on Diana Gabaldon's best-selling novels, the series boasts an exceptional cast, evocative cinematography, and a meticulously crafted narrative that will keep viewers enthralled. With its blend of passion and intrigue set against the backdrop of Scotland's stunning landscapes, Outlander is a must-watch for fans of both history and romance.Honeymooning in 1945 Scotland, a combat nurse is suddenly transported back to the 1700s.More Outlander- Dig Deeper...20 Fascinating Facts From Behind The Scenes Of 'Outlander'
- #15 of 112 onThe Best Drama TV Shows Airing Now
- #16 of 145 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- 5Ruth Wilson, Georgie Henley, Toby Stephens
Watch This Show If You Love: Villette (1987), Wuthering Heights (1998), Agnes Grey (2017), Rebecca (2020), The Tenant of Wildfell Hall (1996)
Why Should I Stream? An enduring tale of love and personal growth against all odds is brought to life through this faithful adaptation of Charlotte Bronte's classic novel. With outstanding performances from Ruth Wilson and Toby Stephens as Jane Eyre and Mr. Rochester, viewers are treated to a mesmerizing portrayal of complex characters navigating societal constraints in 19th-century England. This critically praised version captures the Gothic atmosphere, romantic intensity, and profound emotions that make Jane Eyre indispensable viewing for period drama aficionados.Jane Eyre is a 2006 television adaptation of Charlotte Brontë's 1847 novel of the same name. The story, which has been the subject of numerous television and film adaptations is based on the life of the orphaned titular character. This four-part BBC television drama serial adaptation was broadcast in the United Kingdom on BBC One. The mini-series is generally considered a successful adaptation, garnering critical acclaim and a number of prestigious nominations from various award bodies. - 6Romola Garai, Michael Gambon, Jonny Lee Miller
Watch This Show If You Love: Persuasion (2007), Clueless, Becoming Jane, Penny Dreadful Season 3 Episode 4, Jane Austen Book Club
Why Should I Stream? This delightful adaptation of Jane Austen's beloved novel showcases the misadventures of well-intentioned matchmaker Emma Woodhouse as she navigates love and friendship in Regency-era England. With Romola Garai's enchanting portrayal of the titular character and a talented supporting cast interpreting Austen's timeless themes with skill and charm, this miniseries offers viewers an engaging glimpse into early 19th-century society. Elegantly crafted sets, lavish costumes, and sparkling dialogue make Emma an essential watch for fans of refined period dramas.Adaptation of the Jane Austen classic by BAFTA award-winning writer Sandy Welch.More Emma - 7Claire Foy, Matthew McFadyen, Judy Parfit
Watch This Show If You Love: Bleak House, Our Mutual Friend, Nicholas Nickleby (2001), Martin Chuzzlewit (1994), Oliver Twist (2007)
Why Should I Stream? Charles Dickens' rags-to-riches story comes alive in this enthralling BBC adaptation featuring captivating characters embroiled in matters of love, wealth, family ties, and societal expectations. With remarkable acting from Claire Foy as Amy Dorrit along with a stellar ensemble cast supporting her journey through Victorian London’s social circles, Little Dorrit masterfully tackles themes such as redemption and self-discovery throughout its intricate plotlines. This miniseries is essential viewing for those seeking to appreciate Dickens' storytelling prowess embedded within a sumptuous and atmospheric setting.Screenwriter Andrew Davies adapts Charles Dickens' tale of struggle and hardship in 1820s London.More Little Dorrit- #66 of 185 onThe 150+ Best Historical Drama TV Shows
- #158 of 220 onThe 145+ Best Mini Series List
- #6 of 36 onThe 30+ Best TV Shows Set In The Regency Era, Ranked
- 8
Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries
Essie Davis, Nathan Page, Hugo Johnstone-BurtWatch This Show If You Love: Frankie Drake Mysteries, Grantchester S1-S3, Mr & Mrs Murder, Death In Paradise S1-S6, Murdoch Mysteries
Why Should I Stream? For mystery enthusiasts seeking style, substance, and a touch of glamour, this Australian series delivers all three with its resourceful protagonist, Phryne Fisher – a fearlessly fashionable female detective in 1920s Melbourne. With each episode centering around a new case to solve, the show artfully combines suspenseful storytelling with historical accuracy and exquisite period costumes. Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries offers viewers an irresistible blend of charm, wit, and intrigue that stands out among its contemporaries.Private detective Phryne Fisher solves mysteries in 1920s Melbourne.- #10 of 77 onThe 70 Best Acorn TV Shows, Ranked
- #17 of 43 onWhat to Watch If You Love 'Sherlock'
- #69 of 221 onThe Best TV Series Based on Books
- 9
Ripper Street
Watch This Show If You Love: Peaky Blinders, The Frankenstein Chronicles, Penny Dreadful, Deadwood, The Alienist
Why Should I Stream? Set amidst Victorian London's notoriously dangerous East End in the aftermath of Jack the Ripper's heinous crimes, this captivating series follows Detective Inspector Edmund Reid (Matthew Macfadyen) as he doggedly pursues justice amidst a murky underworld of crime and corruption. Ripper Street brings viewers into an expertly crafted realm of mystery, morality, and societal change with its immersive atmosphere, stellar cast, and engaging storytelling. It's a riveting journey that deftly marries historical fact with gripping fiction. - 10Anson Mount, Colm Meaney, Phil Burke
Watch This Show If You Love: Deadwood, Justified, Godless, Into the West, Copper
Why Should I Stream? Hell on Wheels plunges viewers into the gritty, lawless world of the American West during the construction of the first transcontinental railroad. With its fascinating mix of characters from all walks of life – including former Confederate soldier Cullen Bohannon (Anson Mount) seeking revenge for his wife's murder – this series offers an unflinching look at the harsh realities faced by those who forged ahead in pursuit of progress and fortune. With its raw intensity, captivating cinematography, and dynamic performances, Hell on Wheels is a must-watch for fans seeking an authentic Western experience.Set against the backdrop of the American Civil War, Hell on Wheels follows the turbulent journey of Cullen Bohannon (Anson Mount), a former Confederate soldier seeking revenge for his wife's murder. As Bohannon becomes entwined in the construction of the First Transcontinental Railroad, he encounters a diverse ensemble of characters including Thomas Durant (Colm Meaney), an unscrupulous businessman, and Elam Ferguson (Common), a freed slave forging a new path for himself. The critically acclaimed series boasts multiple award nominations, including a Primetime Emmy nod, and masterfully weaves historical events with compelling personal narratives, delivering a gritty yet engaging Western drama.More Hell on Wheels- #168 of 657 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- #29 of 35 onTV Shows That Progressively Got Worse
- #110 of 148 onShows With The Best Freakin' Series Finales Of All Time
- 11Steve Buscemi, Michael Pitt, Kelly Macdonald
Watch This Show If You Love: The Sopranos, Peaky Blinders, The Wire, Narcos, Public Morals
Why Should I Stream? Boardwalk Empire immerses viewers in Prohibition-era Atlantic City through intricately woven storylines featuring both real-life historical figures like Enoch "Nucky" Thompson (Steve Buscemi) along with fictional personalities navigating a dangerous criminal underworld. This acclaimed HBO series boasts top-notch production values alongside skillful writing that explores themes such as ambition, loyalty, greed, and redemption throughout its numerous interconnected narratives. Intelligent storytelling combined with unforgettable performances make Boardwalk Empire essential viewing for any history or crime drama enthusiast.The life of gangster Nucky Thompson at the dawn of Prohibition.More Boardwalk Empire- #13 of 145 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- #126 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- #103 of 202 onThe TV Shows With The Best Writing
- 12Jon Hamm, John Slattery, Vincent Kartheiser
Watch This Show If You Love: Halt and Catch Fire, The Hour, Manhattan, Masters of Sex, Vinyl
Why Should I Stream? Television history was made with the inception of Mad Men – a sophisticated exploration of 1960s America through the lens of New York City's advertising world. With its impeccable attention to detail in recreating the era alongside superlative writing and acting led by Jon Hamm as Don Draper, this groundbreaking series transcends standard TV fare to provide viewers with an intelligent examination of social change during a transformative decade. The stylish visuals, complex themes, and unforgettable characters make Mad Men an indispensable addition to any connoisseur’s catalog.In the smoke-filled world of 1960s New York advertising, an enigmatic group of creative minds navigate the complexities of their professional and personal lives. Mad Men, a critically acclaimed drama series, masterfully portrays the era's shifting social landscape through the eyes of Don Draper (Jon Hamm), a talented yet deeply flawed ad man. With its meticulously crafted aesthetic, the show has garnered numerous accolades, including multiple Emmy and Golden Globe awards. The compelling narrative delves into the characters' ambitions, secrets, and relationships, all while offering a poignant exploration of the human condition in a rapidly changing world. - 13Adelaide Kane, Megan Follows, Rachel Skarsten
Watch This Show If You Love: The Tudors, Versailles, Isabel (Spanish TV series), Medici: Masters of Florence, World Without End (miniseries)
Why Should I Stream? This sumptuous historical drama invites viewers to revel in the dramatic intrigues of France's royal court during the reign of Mary Stuart, Queen of Scots (Adelaide Kane). Reign presents a stylish fusion of history and creative license that emphasizes themes such as love, betrayal, power struggles, and political maneuvering against a backdrop of opulent costumes and lavish sets. A visually stunning feast for fans searching for an extravagant escape into 16th-century Europe.Set against the historical backdrop of 16th century France, Reign presents a riveting drama that masterfully weaves together political intrigue, romance, and power struggles. The series follows the life of Mary Stuart (Adelaide Kane) as she navigates her role as the young Queen of Scots amidst the treacherous waters of French court. The show's nuanced portrayal of complex characters, such as Catherine de Medici (Megan Follows) and Francis II (Toby Regbo), has earned critical acclaim and garnered several awards, including a People's Choice Award for Favorite New TV Drama. Reign offers a fresh perspective on a turbulent period in history, engaging viewers with its lush visuals, compelling narrative, and superb performances.More Reign- #195 of 355 onTV Shows Canceled Before Their Time
- #231 of 657 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- #53 of 267 onThe 195+ Best TV Shows With Female Leads
- 14Becci Gemmell, Susan Cookson, Mark Benton
Watch This Show If You Love: Call the Midwife, Home Fires, Bomb Girls, World on Fire, Foyle's War
Why Should I Stream? Land Girls delves into the lives of four women working together as part of Britain's Women's Land Army during World War II. This compelling series skillfully balances drama, romance, history, and emotion to create an authentic portrait of life on the home front for those trying to maintain normalcy amidst turmoil. A tribute to resilience and friendship in times of upheaval, Land Girls is essential viewing for anyone interested in exploring lesser-known aspects of wartime history.Following four girls who have joined the Women's Land Army.More Land Girls- #15 of 31 onThe Best Shows On The PBS Video App
- #32 of 92 onThe 85+ Best Historical Shows On Netflix, Ranked
- #30 of 51 onThe Best World War II TV Shows
- 15Christine Baranski, Cynthia Nixon, Carrie Coon
Watch This Show If You Love: Downton Abbey, Upstairs Downstairs, House of Eliott, Mr Selfridge, Murdoch Mysteries
Why Should I Stream? From acclaimed writer Julian Fellowes comes The Gilded Age – a sumptuous exploration of American high society during the late 19th century where old money aristocrats clashed with ambitious newcomers seeking status and fortune. With its captivating storytelling, lavish sets and costumes reflecting the opulence of the era, this series offers viewers a fascinating glimpse into one of history's defining periods marked by elegance, excess, and social change. It's essential viewing for anyone looking to immerse themselves in a world where wealth and power knew no bounds.Set against the opulent backdrop of 1880s New York City, The Gilded Age unravels a tale of wealth, ambition, and societal expectations. With a stellar ensemble cast, including Christine Baranski as Agnes van Rhijn and Cynthia Nixon as Ada Brook, the drama unfolds as newcomers enter the lavish world of old money aristocracy. As the characters navigate through the intricacies of high society, viewers are treated to a visual feast of extravagant costumes, grandiose sets, and an engaging storyline. Garnering praise for its production design and performances, this period drama showcases the stark contrast between the lives of the privileged elite and the less fortunate, providing a thought-provoking exploration of class and power dynamics in America's gilded past.More The Gilded Age- #99 of 687 onThe 600+ Best TV Shows Of The Last 5 Years
- #5 of 20 onThe Best Underrated & Overlooked TV Shows
- #8 of 116 onThe Best New Cable Dramas of the Last Few Years
- 16
I, Claudius
Derek Jacobi, George Baker, Margaret TyzackWatch This Show If You Love: Rome, Spartacus, The Borgias, The Last Kingdom, Boudica
Why Should I Stream? This legendary BBC production chronicles the tumultuous history of Rome's Julio-Claudian dynasty through the perspective of the reluctant emperor Claudius (Derek Jacobi). Adapted from Robert Graves' historical novels and featuring an unparalleled ensemble cast, I, Claudius expertly navigates political intrigue, betrayal, and ambition in a gripping narrative that spans multiple generations. This classic series remains an influential benchmark for historical dramas while offering viewers a captivating journey into ancient Rome's complex world.Roman emperor Claudius narrates his life.More I, Claudius- #151 of 202 onThe TV Shows With The Best Writing
- #246 of 658 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- #152 of 156 onThe Best TV Shows Of The '70s, Ranked
- 17
Tess of the D'Urbervilles
Gemma Arterton, Eddie Redmayne, Ruth JonesWatch This Show If You Love: Far from the Madding Crowd (2015), Jude, Return to Cranford, Lark Rise to Candleford, He Knew He Was Right
Why Should I Stream? This haunting adaptation brings Thomas Hardy's tragic heroine to life as she navigates a harsh Victorian society where fate seemingly conspires against her at every turn. Gemma Arterton beautifully embodies Tess's resilience and vulnerability, supported by an equally talented cast that captures the intricate relationships within Hardy's compelling narrative. The stunning landscapes, evocative score, and timeless themes make Tess of the D'Urbervilles essential viewing for lovers of classic literature.In the 19th century an innocent girl is preyed upon by one man and let down by another, as she struggles to find a better place in society. - 18Rafe Spall, Aidan Turner, Samuel Barnett
Watch This Show If You Love: To Walk Invisible: The Bronte Sisters, Effie Gray, Miss Austen Regrets, Possession, Bright Star
Why Should I Stream? Desperate Romantics transports viewers to 19th-century London during the rise of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood – a group of rebellious young artists determined to revolutionize the art world with their daring approach. A rich tapestry of love, passion, and artistic rivalry envelops this vibrant series complete with gorgeous visuals that pay tribute to the works it celebrates. With its compelling blend of history and drama, Desperate Romantics is a must-watch for fans seeking an enthralling portrayal of artistry borne from determination and defiance.Four young men are distracted when they embark to transform the Victorian art world. - 19Franka Potente, Anastasia Griffith, Kyle Schmid
Watch This Show If You Love: Ripper Street, Murdoch Mysteries, Hell on Wheels, Deadwood, Houdini & Doyle
Why Should I Stream? Copper takes viewers on a gritty journey through 1860s New York City as Irish immigrant detective Kevin Corcoran (Tom Weston-Jones) navigates crime-ridden streets in pursuit of justice. This evocative series expertly captures the chaotic atmosphere of post-Civil War America while examining themes such as corruption, racial tension, and societal upheaval. Compelling character dynamics combined with rich historical authenticity make Copper an intriguing watch for fans seeking an immersive period drama experience.Copper is a drama television series created by Tom Fontana and Will Rokos for BBC America. It is set in 1860s New York City during the American Civil War and stars Tom Weston-Jones as an Irish immigrant policeman, or "copper", who patrols the Five Points neighborhood. Other cast members include Kyle Schmid, Anastasia Griffith, and Franka Potente. The series is BBC America's first original scripted program after previously only airing co-productions and shows from the United Kingdom. Fontana, Rokos, Barry Levinson, and Christina Wayne are executive producers of the series. The first season of 10 episodes premiered on August 19, 2012. The series was renewed for a second season of 13 episodes, which premiered on June 23, 2013. On September 19, 2013, Copper's cancellation was announced, three days before its second season finale aired. - 20
Titanic
Jenna Coleman, Toby Jones, Maria Doyle KennedyWatch This Show If You Love: Downton Abbey, Upstairs Downstairs, Gosford Park, Parade's End, House of Eliott
Why Should I Stream? Julian Fellowes' miniseries offers viewers a fresh perspective on one of history's most infamous maritime disasters, exploring the lives and fates of various passengers from different backgrounds aboard the ill-fated vessel. Titanic weaves together a tapestry of compelling personal stories while highlighting themes of class, ambition, and sacrifice. With its high production values, strong ensemble cast, and emotional resonance, this series provides an engaging alternative to traditional retellings of the tragic event.Titanic is a four-part television miniseries period drama written by Julian Fellowes based on the sinking of the RMS Titanic, a passenger liner that sank in the North Atlantic Ocean on 15 April 1912 after colliding with an iceberg during her maiden voyage from Southampton, United Kingdom, to New York City, United States. It was released in at least 86 countries in March and April 2012 for the disaster's one hundredth anniversary, 15 April 2012, one of two such productions, the other being Titanic: Blood and Steel. - 21
North and South
Patrick Swayze, James Read, Terri GarberWatch This Show If You Love: Roots, Lonesome Dove, Hatfields & McCoys, John Adams, War and Peace (2016)
Why Should I Stream? This captivating miniseries presents a striking vision of America on the brink of Civil War as two families from different regions find their lives increasingly intertwined by love, friendship, and political strife. With its meticulously researched historical backdrop combined with emotional storytelling, North and South offers viewers an engrossing portrayal of a nation divided. It's an unforgettable saga that showcases the enduring power of human connection despite boundaries forged by geography or ideology.A 1985 miniseries about the Civil War.More North and South- #24 of 53 onThe Best ABC Dramas of All Time
- #9 of 17 on11 War TV Shows That Hit As Hard As A Movie
- #43 of 185 onThe 150+ Best Historical Drama TV Shows
- 22Christina Ricci, Margot Robbie, Michael Mosley
Watch This Show If You Love: The Astronaut Wives Club, Call the Midwife, Masters of Sex, Velvet, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel
Why Should I Stream? Set against the backdrop of the iconic Pan American World Airways during the early 1960s "Jet Age," this stylish period drama follows flight attendants traversing countries bearing witness to cultural shifts across continents. Boasting vibrant visuals that evoke mid-century glamour alongside captivating performances led by Christina Ricci, Pan Am perfectly encapsulates a time when air travel represented excitement and possibility for global connection in unprecedented ways. Journey back to an era defined by innovation, adventure, and geopolitical intrigue with this immersive series.Pan Am is an American period drama television series created by writer Jack Orman. Named for the iconic Pan American World Airways, the series features the pilots and stewardesses of the airline as it operated in the early 1960s at the beginning of the commercial Jet Age. Pan Am premiered on ABC on September 25, 2011 and ended on February 19, 2012. The time slot was subsequently filled by mid-season replacement GCB. Both series were canceled by ABC on May 11, 2012. In May 2012, Sony Pictures Television had conversations with Amazon about picking up the series for a second season because of its international success. It won the "Best Series" at the Rose d'Or TV awards, Europe's equivalent of the Emmys. Unable to reach a deal with Amazon, the series officially ended on June 20, 2012. - 23Ian McKellen, Daniel Radcliffe, Maggie Smith
Watch This Show If You Love: Great Expectations (2012), Bleak House (2005), Oliver Twist (2007), Little Dorrit (2008), Our Mutual Friend(1998)
Why Should I Stream? Charles Dickens' celebrated semi-autobiographical novel receives a faithful adaptation in this enchanting miniseries that follows the titular character through his tumultuous journey from childhood to adulthood amid Victorian England's societal constraints. With a memorable performance by Daniel Radcliffe as young David Copperfield supported by a remarkable cast embodying some of literature’s most cherished characters, this production is ideal for fans seeking immersion into Dickens' vivid world filled with hardship, hope, and self-discovery.David Copperfield is a two-part BBC television drama adaptation of Charles Dickens' novel David Copperfield, adapted by Adrian Hodges. The first part was shown on Christmas Day and the second on Boxing Day in 1999. The production is notable for being the first screen work of actor Daniel Radcliffe, who would later achieve fame as the star of the Harry Potter films, where he would collaborate with his David Copperfield co-stars Maggie Smith, Zoë Wanamaker, Imelda Staunton, Dawn French and Paul Whitehouse. The film was co-produced by BBC America and Boston television station WGBH, and first aired on American television in April 2000, as a feature in the PBS series Masterpiece. It won a Peabody Award in 2000. - 24Gillian Anderson, Ray Winstone, Harry Lloyd
Watch This Show If You Love: David Copperfield (1999), Oliver Twist (2007), Little Dorrit (2008), Bleak House (2005), Our Mutual Friend (1998)
Why Should I Stream? This masterful adaptation brings Charles Dickens' timeless coming-of-age story to life with vivid detail, capturing protagonist Pip's journey from humble origins to gentlemanly status while grappling with unrequited love, personal ambition, and self-discovery throughout Victorian England. Featuring captivating performances led by Douglas Booth, Gillian Anderson, Ray Winstone – Great Expectations beautifully showcases Dickens’ literary prowess amidst atmospheric settings that serve as a window into the era’s social dynamics.Great Expectations is a three-part BBC television drama adaptation by Sarah Phelps of the Charles Dickens novel Great Expectations. Starring Ray Winstone as Magwitch, Gillian Anderson as Miss Havisham, Douglas Booth as Pip, Vanessa Kirby as Estella and David Suchet as Jaggers. The adaptation was first broadcast on British television over the Christmas period in 2011. Anderson's casting as Miss Havisham drew attention to the production due to her being a mere 43 compared to other actresses who have played her. However, critical reception was generally positive. In 2012, the PBS broadcast earned the series a total of four Creative Arts Emmy Awards out of five nominations for Outstanding Art Direction, Cinematography, Costumes, and Main Title Design. The remaining nomination was for Outstanding Original Main Title Theme Music. - 25Mark Williams, John Burton, Ruby May Martinwood
Watch This Show If You Love: Grantchester, Miss Marple, Midsomer Murders, Agatha Raisin, Death in Paradise
Why Should I Stream? For lovers of classic detective stories with a twist comes Father Brown – a series inspired by G.K. Chesterton’s literary creation about a mild-mannered priest who solves unsolved crimes using intuition and empathy rather than violence or aggression. Set against the picturesque backdrop of 1950s England, this charming mystery series focuses on character-driven plots while incorporating themes such as redemption and morality throughout its investigations led by Mark Williams’ captivating portrayal of the eponymous sleuth.Based on the novels of G.K. Chesterton.More Father Brown- #12 of 29 onCurrent British TV Shows You've Been Missing This Whole Time
- #41 of 109 onThe Best British Detective Series
- #11 of 131 on130+ Movies And Shows With Brown In The Title
- 26Andrew Buchan, Lyndsey Marshal, Rupert Graves
Watch This Show If You Love: The Devil's Whore, The First Churchills, Wives and Daughters, Injustice, The Old Curiosity Shop
Why Should I Stream? Garrow's Law is a compelling legal drama based on the life of pioneering 18th-century barrister William Garrow, who championed the rights of ordinary people in Georgian London courts. This intelligent series showcases courtroom drama with historical authenticity, offering viewers an insightful look at the early origins of modern legal practices and principles. With its engaging storytelling and stellar performances led by Andrew Buchan, Garrow's Law highlights the significance of one man's pursuit of justice against all odds.Garrow's Law is a British period legal drama about the 18th-century lawyer William Garrow. The series debuted on 1 November 2009 on BBC One and BBC HD. A second series was announced on 7 July 2010 and was broadcast from 14 November 2010. A third series consisting of four episodes was commissioned and was aired from 13 November 2011. Garrow's Law was cancelled after three series in February 2012. - 27Louise Lombard, Aden Gillett, Cathy Murphy
Watch This Show If You Love: Upstairs Downstairs, Downton Abbey, Mr Selfridge, Lark Rise to Candleford, Foyle's War
Why Should I Stream? This stylish period drama transports viewers back to 1920s London as two talented sisters strive to establish their careers in fashion amidst societal expectations and personal challenges. A fascinating exploration into a dynamic era defined by innovation and progress, The House of Eliott is also a tale about female empowerment and independence that resonates across generations. With its stunning costumes, intriguing characters, and engaging plotlines, this series offers an irresistible window into the world of high fashion during a transformative time for women.The House of Eliott is a British television series produced and broadcast by the BBC in three series between 1991 and 1994. The series starred Stella Gonet as Beatrice Eliott and Louise Lombard as Evangeline Eliott, two sisters in 1920s London who establish a dressmaking business and eventually their own haute couture fashion house, Maggie Ollerenshaw as their loyal, but sharp mannered head of workroom Florence Ranby and Aden Gillett as Beatrice Eliott's husband, film maker Jack Maddox. It was created by Jean Marsh and Eileen Atkins, who had previously devised Upstairs, Downstairs. The series was written by several writers including Jill Hyem, Peter Buckman, Deborah Cook and Ginnie Hole. - 28Orson Welles, Richard Chamberlain, Toshiro Mifune
Watch This Show If You Love: Taipan, Noble House, Marco Polo, Empress Ki, Black Sails
Why Should I Stream? Based on James Clavell's best-selling novel, Shōgun immerses viewers in an enthralling narrative set during Japan’s feudal era where an English sailor forms unexpected alliances amidst political intrigue and cultural clashes between East and West. This groundbreaking miniseries brings to life the complexity of 16th-century Japan with stunning visuals, compelling characters, and deep themes touching on loyalty, honor, ambition, love – making it essential viewing for anyone fascinated by history or epic storytelling rooted in rich cultural landscapes.Shōgun is an American television miniseries based on the international bestselling 1975 novel of the same name by James Clavell, who also was the executive producer of the miniseries. It was first broadcast in the United States on NBC over five nights between September 15 and September 19, 1980. To date, it is the only USA TV show/miniseries to be filmed entirely on location in Japan; sound stage shooting was also done in Japan at Toho Company, Ltd., studios. The miniseries is loosely based on the adventures of English navigator William Adams, who journeyed to feudal Japan in 1600 and rose to high rank in the service of the Shōgun. The miniseries follows Englishman John Blackthorne's transforming experiences and political intrigues in feudal Japan in the early 17th century. - 29Ethan Hawke, Joshua Caleb Johnson, Beau Knapp
Watch This Show If You Love: Roots (2016), Harriet (movie), 12 Years a Slave (movie), Hell on Wheels, John Brown's Holy War (documentary)
Why Should I Stream? Based on James McBride's celebrated novel, The Good Lord Bird tells the story of abolitionist John Brown through the eyes of an enslaved boy named Onion who becomes his unlikely ally during a violent crusade against slavery in pre-Civil War America. With powerful performances by Ethan Hawke, Joshua Caleb Johnson – this hard-hitting series explores themes of race, identity, freedom while offering an unforgettable portrayal of American history that will leave a lasting impact on viewers.The Good Lord Bird, which premiered on October 4, 2020, is a historical drama series that delves into the life of abolitionist John Brown. The narrative unfolds through the eyes of a fictional enslaved boy named Onion, who becomes part of Brown's motley crew. Ethan Hawke delivers a powerful performance as John Brown, while Joshua Caleb Johnson shines as Onion. The show examines themes of racial injustice and the fight for freedom, offering a unique perspective on pre-Civil War America. It has been lauded for its storytelling and performances, winning the Critics' Choice Television Award for Best Limited Series. - 30
Casanova
Frank Finlay, Norman Rossington, Zienia MertonWatch This Show If You Love: Dangerous Liaisons (1988), Les Liaisons dangereuses(2003), Lady Chatterley's Lover(2015), Versailles
Why Should I Stream? Venture into the seductive world of Giacomo Casanova – history's most infamous lover – as portrayed by David Tennant in this captivating miniseries that captures both his romantic escapades and intellectual pursuits throughout Europe's courts during the 18th century. This intriguing tale of hedonism balanced against personal ambition is brought to life through lush visuals that evoke the era's opulence while exploring themes related to desire, power dynamics, societal norms – making it ideal for viewers keen on immersing themselves in love stories rooted in history.Casanova is a British television drama serial, written by television playwright Dennis Potter. Directed by Mark Cullingham and John Glenister, the serial was made by the BBC and screened on the BBC2 network in November and December 1971. It is loosely based on Italian adventurer Giacomo Casanova's Histoire de ma vie. It was Dennis Potter's first television serial, having previously written single plays for the BBC's The Wednesday Play and Play for Today series. Frank Finlay starred in the title role and was nominated for the best actor award at the 1972 BAFTA ceremony.
