Bridgerton
I was really stoked when I saw the trailer of Bridgerton. I couldn’t believe what I just saw! It was the best thing that had happened to me that day because one of my favorite book series had been adapted into a Netflix show! I actually jumped with joy! They have combined certain bits from each book of the Bridgerton series into these eight episodes but the focus is basically on the main book, ‘The Duke and I’.
If you are a fan of period movies/series, you will definitely relish this! To be honest, I don’t really know how I pictured the main lead Simon Basset but Regé-Jean Page was just perfect for this role and you’ll gradually fall for his charisma as you watch every subsequent episode. He also has a superb chemistry with the main female character the feisty Daphne Bridgerton, beautifully portrayed by Phoebe Dynevor. Moreover, the series doesn’t make the readers feel disappointed at all (my personal opinion, as one of them) because it has managed to create a much greater value with the series by mixing different races and thinking outside the box, which makes it even more relatable to the viewers of this time.
The main storyline is that a wary wallflower enters a fake engagement with one of London’s most eligible bachelors; she’s one of eight siblings (four boys and four girls, who’re seeking the loves of their lives). It is absolutely enchanting with gorgeous visuals and music, vivid costumes, amazing colours, lavish locations, captivating plots and sub-plots that unfold with perfect timing laced with a dash of sauciness, beautifully crafted scenes and strong acting – like a dreamy escapade from the drab of our ordinary lives into a glorious regency romance. Imagine Pride and Prejudice married Gossip Girl and had a baby, that wonderful baby is Bridgerton…the new web series version of Barbara Cartland/Georgette Heyer books. The cast is exemplary. All the characters are very well written and portrayed. When the lead pair (Simon and Daphne) look at each other, their movements and gestures and body language, and when they dance…you can surely get caught in their extraordinary magic!
The mysterious Lady Whistledown reports on the foibles, fancies, and finest moments of the London upper class. She is not just a ‘gossip girl’ but also an important literary device to keep the viewers informed and to keep the plot moving forward. She writes about the good-looking and wealthy Bridgertons and their neighbours, the Featheringtons. Julie Andrews as her voice-over is definitely a 10/10. I won’t reveal her identity and give out spoilers (that comes out only in the very last scene of this season). A special mention of Adjoa Andoh who plays Lady Danbury, her screen presence is lovely and noteworthy. Every other member of the supporting cast performs his/her role excellently.
Bridgerton has some funny and heartwarming moments too; it perfectly depicts the social history and customs of that time period, and does a stellar job of it. The scenes of 19th century London are absolutely stunning…talk about being fully transported to an era gone by. This period drama is entirely breathtaking and truly well crafted; a must-see for die-hard romantics and for those with an optimistic view of life.
The only thing that disturbed me a bit was the overdose of raunchiness, much of it was unnecessary and meant only for cheap thrills. It frankly didn’t add much to the storytelling, and could have been easily avoided.
Well, I binge-watched it with my SO over a weekend and we truly enjoyed the series since it has been very beautifully and meticulously made and acted out. A stunning historical romance indeed! Also, I’m real excited because an Indian origin actor, Simone Ashley, joins the cast in the next season, yay! 🙂
Disclaimer: The above review solely illustrates the views of the writer.