I admit, I am a little obsessed with Historical Dramas and love diving into history and other cultures. I curated this list of some favorites that are primarily based on great books and the cinematography, costumes and productions are well done. Each of these works tells a unique story, that compels you to come along on the adventure. From the captivating characters in Versaille to the history and romance of War and Peace, these works of art provide a fascinating glimpse into different points of view and fascinating insights into another time and place. They are timeless and remain relevant today, offering the chance to escape for a little while and experience something unique but also very relatable.
Enjoy!
*The Bonfire of Destiny France Netflix
This epic French historical drama series, also known as "Le Bazar de la Charité," recounts the tragic event of the 1897 Bazar de la Charité fire in Paris, one of the deadliest fires in it's history. The narrative primarily follows three women from different social backgrounds who find their lives turned upside down and reinventing themselves in the aftermath of the tragedy. The series delves into the injustices of the era, the fight for survival, and the struggle for freedom in a society dominated by men and class distinctions.
*Downton Abbey UK PBS Passport Apple TV
This beloved British series provides an intimate look at the lives of the aristocratic Crawley family and their staff in the post-Edwardian era. With the grand Downton Abbey estate as the series' backdrop, the narrative explores the family's personal dramas and the social changes shaking the hierarchy of the British estate. The series brings to light the fading glory of the British aristocracy during the early 20th century, and how the characters adapt to the new social and political landscape. Notable for its high production values, well-drawn characters, and sharp social commentary, "Downton Abbey" is a compelling portrait of a world in transition.
*Anonymous UK Prime Video
Anonymous" is a historical thriller that delves into one of literature's most enduring controversies: who truly wrote the works attributed to William Shakespeare? The film posits Edward De Vere, Earl of Oxford, as the true author, painting a vivid picture of courtly intrigue, political ambition, and the power of art. By combining historical events with speculative fiction, "Anonymous" offers a fresh perspective on the Shakespeare authorship question. It is a fascinating subject and if you want to find out more there are several good channels on YouTube dedicated to the topic and to Edward de Vere, the 17th Earl of Oxford, and the authorship questions. Andrew Waugh (grandson of Evelyn Waugh, author) is a noted Oxfordian and a great resource. click here
*Durrell's of Corfu UK PBS Passport
Escape to the idyllic island of Corfu with The Durrell's, a heartwarming series based on Gerald Durrell's autobiographical novels. Join the eccentric Durrell family as they embark on a new life in Greece, encountering colorful locals, adorable animals, and plenty of misadventures along the way. click here
*Victoria UK Prime Video
This lavish production set in Windsor Palace depicts the early life of Queen Victoria, from her rise to the throne at a young girl, through her courtship and marriage to Prince Albert. Her reign, which lasted from 1837 to 1901, was marked by significant social and political changes. She played a crucial role in the expansion of the British Empire and the Industrial Revolution. During her reign, Victoria witnessed the rise of the middle class and the emergence of new technologies. Encouraged by Prince Albert, she championed social reforms, such as the improvement of working conditions and the expansion of education. Victoria's commitment to her subjects earned her widespread admiration and respect, solidifying her legacy as a beloved and iconic ruler. click here
*Sisi Germany/Austria PBS Passport
"Sisi" chronicles the extraordinary life of Empress Elisabeth of Austria, and her transformation from a young princess from Bavaria into a self-assured, modern, and fiercely independent woman. Three productions of the life of Empress Elisabeth of Austria, came out this year. This historical drama follows her journey from a carefree Bavarian princess to one of the most iconic figures of European royalty. With its stunning costumes, lavish settings, and compelling performances, "Sissi" brings to life the opulence and intrigue of the Habsburg court while exploring themes of love, duty, and sacrifice. click here
*Versailles UK /France Netflix
Versailles became a symbol of absolute monarchy and the power of the French monarchy. The construction of the palace was not only a testament to Louis XIV's wealth and grandeur but also a strategic move to centralize power and control the nobility. The show explores the political intrigue, lavish lifestyles, and opulent parties that took place within the walls of Versailles. click here
*Marie Antoinette France PBS Passport
Step into the glittering court of Versailles and witness the rise and fall of one of history's most controversial figures in "Marie Antoinette." This sumptuous series follows Marie Antoinette from her arrival in France as a young Austrian princess to her eventual downfall during the French Revolution. This sumptuous series explores the life of the legendary queen, from her lavish courtly lifestyle to her tragic downfall during the French Revolution. With its stunning costumes and intricate storytelling, this show offers a captivating glimpse into the opulence and turmoil of 18th-century France. click here
*The Tudors UK Prime Video
This dramatic series is focused on the reign and marriages of King Henry VIII. It stars Jonathan Rhys Meyers as the young, vibrant Henry VIII. It offers a glimpse into the early years of King Henry VIII's nearly 40-year reign (1509-1547) in England, his newfound romance with Anne Boleyn, and his desire to annul his marriage to Catherine of Aragon to secure his dynasty. click here
*War and Peace UK Apple TV Prime Video
The series is a dramatization of the 1869 Leo Tolstoy novel. It chronicles the Russian conflict with Napoleon and delves into the lives of five aristocratic families. The plot revolves around the early nineteenth century where a young and spirited Natasha searches for true love while a handsome and gallant Andrei seeks a greater purpose. The series gives a firsthand look at war and the various dynamic relationships of the time. click here
*Poldark UK PBS Passport
Set against the backdrop of 18th-century Cornwall, Poldark is an epic tale of love, loss, and redemption. Follow Captain Ross Poldark as he returns from war to find his world turned upside down. With its sweeping landscapes and compelling characters, this historical drama will transport you to a time of passion and rebellion is based on the novels by Winston Graham. The series offers a compelling narrative about loss, love, grief, and vindication. click here
*Harlots UK Prime Video
Set in the grimy, decadent streets of mid-1700s London, Harlots tells the story of courtesans of every social standing, as rival brothels and their inhabitants vie for power and survival. The series is a rich drama about the intersection of survival, business, and family, offering a view of sex work through the eyes of women. A great cast
lead by Lesley Manville, Liv Tyler, and Jessica Brown (Downton Abbey) and inspired by the stories of 18th-century Georgian London and by historian Hallie Rubenhold’s book, "The Covent Garden Ladies". click here
*Vanity Fair UK Prime Video
This classic historical drama is based on the 19th Century novel by William Makepeace Thackeray. The story revolves around Becky Sharp, a poor but ambitious woman who uses her wit and charm to climb the social ladder of English society during the Napoleonic Wars. click here
*The English Game UK Netflix
This period drama details the origins of football (soccer) in England. It tells the story of how the game crossed class lines to become the world's most popular sport, focusing on the private lives of two footballers on opposite sides of a class divide.
*Indian Summers Prime Video PBS Passport
One of my favorite series, Indian Summers is a compelling romantic murder mystery set in the 1930s during the last years of British colonial rule in India. The series focuses on the social, political, and personal complexities and conflicts among the British ruling class and the local Indians as the independence movement grows. click here
*The Time In Between Spain PBS Passport
The Time In Between (El Tiempo Entre Costuras) is a Spanish drama based on the novel of the same name, The main character is a young woman seamstress, María Dueñas who flees to Tangiers with other expats and becomes entangled in espionage during the Spanish Civil War. With its rich scenery as a backdrop and compelling characters, it explores themes of love, sacrifice, and resilience in a time of great uncertainty. click here
*Seaside Hotel Denmark MHZ PBS Passport
Seaside Hotel (Badehotellet) is a Danish drama series set in the 1920s. It follows the lives of wealthy guests and the hotel staff at a quaint beach hotel every summer for over 10 years and leading into war. The series highlights the class divide and showcases the characters' personal dramas at the idyllic seaside retreat. It is filled with love, humor and intrigue. click here
*Indochine France Prime Video
This is a 1992 French film starring Catherine Deneuve is set in colonial French Indochina during the 1930s to 1950s. It tells the story of a French plantation owner and her adopted Vietnamese daughter, with the backdrop of Vietnam's colonial past and the emergence of the Vietnamese nationalist movement.: political turmoil, romance, and betrayal set against lavish landscapes. click here
*Il Postino Italy AMAZON DVD
"Il Postino," or "The Postman," is an Italian film that delicately intertwines a simple tale of friendship with profound socio-political commentary. The story centers around a humble postman, Mario, who delivers mail to the exiled Chilean poet, Pablo Neruda. During his interactions with Neruda, Mario discovers the power of poetry and becomes inspired to express his feelings for a local woman, Beatrice, through verse. The film is a lyrical exploration of life, love, and the transformative power of words. click here
*The English Patient UK Prime Video
This multi award-winning epic romantic drama was brilliantly directed by the late Anthony Minghella and adapted from Michael Ondaatje's novel, "The English Patient". It is a sweeping epic that explores themes of love, betrayal, and loss against the backdrop of World War II. The narrative revolves around a critically burned man, known as the English patient (Ralph Fiennes), who is being cared for by a French nurse (Juliet Binoche) in an Italian monastery. As he gradually regains his memory, the story of his past unfolds, revealing a tragic tale of love and heartbreak intertwined with the harsh realities of war. click here
*Little Women US PBS Passport
There are numerous series and several film adaptations of Louisa May Alcott's 1868 novel chronicling the lives of the March family. The story revolves around the lives of the four March sisters and their journey from childhood to womanhood during the American Civil War. This BBC series is so well done in every aspect that it is my recommendation. The stellar cast with Emily Watson and Maya Hawke at the helm along with veteran actors Michael Gambon and Angela Lansbury in their last roles, is a a beautifully nuanced and authentic production. click here
*Motorcycle Diaries Prime Video
This biopic and travel memoir is about the journey of a shy 23-year-old medical student, Ernesto Guevara, who would several years later become internationally known as the iconic Marxist guerrilla commander and revolutionary Che Guevara. The film recounts the 1952 expedition, initially by motorcycle, across South America by Guevara and his friend Alberto Granado accompanied by a great soundtrack and starring a young Gael Garcia Bernal. Based on the book "Notas de Viaje", by Ernesto "Che" Guevara. click here
To stream and also find the channels for many of the films and series, I recommend Roku.
Books :
*Motorcycle Diaries (Notas de Viaje)
by Ernesto "Che" Guevara click here
*The English Patient
Winner of the Man Booker Prize by Michael Ondaatje click here
*Vanity Fair
by William Thackeray click here
*Little Women
by Louisa May Alcott click here
*The Covent Garden Ladies
by Hallie Rubenhold click here
*War and Peace
by Leo Tolstoy click here
*The Time In Between
by María Dueñas click here
* Love: Poems from the Film 'Il Postino
by Pablo Neruda (Nobel Prize in Literature 1971) click here
*My Family and Other Animals
by Gerald Durrell click here
*Poldark
by Winston Graham click here
