The series has viewers hooked with fans calling the Netflix show ‘even better’ than Bridgerton
The ‘magnificent’ period drama is streaming on Netflix(Image: Netflix)
For period drama fans searching for their next binge-worthy series, we’ve uncovered a gem perfect for settling in this weekend.
Shows such as Bridgerton, Poldark, and Downton Abbey have revolutionised the genre, and there’s another exceptional series that deserves a place alongside them.
The programme has garnered rave reviews from audiences, with one devoted fan confessing they were ‘absolutely destroyed’ by it, admitting they were ‘not ready for all those feelings’.
Viewers have also expressed astonishment at the depth of emotion evoked by the romantic storylines and how profoundly the emotionally intense plot affected them.
Netflix subscribers are championing Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story, particularly for those who adore period dramas, reports Wales Online.
Period drama fans will be absolutely blown away by the Netflix show(Image: Netflix)
Developed by Shonda Rhimes, the series launched on the streaming service on 4 May 2023, serving as a prequel spin-off to Netflix’s smash-hit Bridgerton. It centres on Queen Charlotte from the original series, with the narrative loosely inspired by an ‘alternate history’ interpretation of Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz’s ascent to influence and authority in the late 18th century.
The official synopsis for Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story reads: “Betrothed against her will to King George, young Charlotte arrives in London on her wedding day and faces scrutiny from the monarch’s cunning mother.”
The stunning period drama secured three Primetime Emmy Award nominations and clinched the gong for Outstanding Period and/or Character Hairstyling.
Bridgerton favourites Golda Rosheuvel, Adjoa Andoh, Ruth Gemmell, and Hugh Sachs reprise their roles in the spin-off, alongside their younger selves portrayed by the talented India Amarteifio, Arsema Thomas, Connie Jenkins-Greig, and Sam Clemmett. Michelle Fairley also features in this prequel series.
A Netflix series has ‘completely wrecked’ viewers(Image: Netflix)
The six-episode period drama was filmed at prestigious venues including Hampton Court Palace, Blenheim Palace, Hatfield House, Belton House, Waddesdon Manor and Merton College.
Boasting an impressive 94% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, both critics and audiences have embraced the series wholeheartedly.
One fan shared their thoughts: “The love story between Charlotte and George felt much deeper and more heartbreaking than I was prepared for. I also really liked that the show focused more on their relationship and the emotional side of their lives. And that final episode absolutely destroyed me – I was not ready for all those feelings.”
Meanwhile, another fan said: “The love story felt so much deeper than I expected, and by the final episode I was completely emotionally wrecked. I honestly think it’s even better than Bridgerton.”
Another viewer wrote: “A short yet very impactful series. A lot of things unfolded and a lot of emotions were involved. The chemistry of the leads are definitely unmatched. The casting for the characters’ young and older versions are insane, I cannot imagine a better cast to play the roles. The ending literally punched a hole in my heart, I cannot stop thinking about it.”
Critics have been similarly captivated, with one saying: “A stunning feast for the senses, Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story, is everything a prequel should be.”
Another added: “If you love Bridgerton, and probably Downton Abbey, you’ll love Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story.”
A third reviewer praised: “Queen Charlotte keeps the gorgeous dresses, but gives the Bridgerton world a new layer of complexity, with magnificent results.”
While another critic said in their assessment: “The series unfolds like a six-course feast, made to delight you, satiate you, and keep you in your seat to indulge in more. It’s lovely but it isn’t gentle. Those were not easy times and that injection of truth makes Queen Charlotte more tangible.”
Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story is streaming on Netflix now.
