Nicola here. Today I’m talking about costume dramas old and new. It seems to me that after a long period with very little historical drama on TV and even less on film, there has been a revival of interest in the genre, at least from some television companies. Hurrah! It’s been a long time coming but to me the new historical series are very welcome and of course they bring with them a modern spin on an old genre.
I have such happy memories of the UK costume dramas of the 1970 and 80s. The 
epic Forsyte Saga had been running for a while when I became old enough to watch “grown up” TV and Upstairs Downstairs was also a feature of our Sunday Night viewing. The ultimate historical drama for me though was Poldark. Based on the novels of Winston Graham, it was for me the epitome of everything that a historical romance should be: the handsome hero, the feisty heroine, the wicked cousin, some smuggling thrown in and lots of passion and angst and intrigue. In those days I didn’t even notice the wobbling film sets and the terrible special effects. It was all about the characters and the story. This was the era of plentiful historical drama. There was Dick Turpin, based on the exploits of the legendary highwayman, and Smuggler, with Oliver
Tobias as a naval officer turned…well, smuggler. There was Arthur of the Britons (Oliver Tobias again, as a young King Arthur) and Robin Hood with Michael Praed, and many more.
Like everything, tastes in TV go in and out of fashion and people have suggested that the wave of historical dramas in the 70s and 80s grew out of a nostalgia for the past caused by the uncertain state of the world, with energy and financial crises, war and terrorism. You could draw a parallel here with the past decade but this time it seems we turned to Sci-fi and vampires and zombies rather than the comfort of the past.
From the late 1980s through the 90s and Noughties there was little that was more unfashionable in the UK than a historical drama. You had to go a long way to find a good one. The films and TV programmes that were made were generally based on classic books by authors such as the Brontes or Jane Austen. That’s still the case, of course. Most historical drama still seems to be adaptations of classics, although Philippa Gregory has had had her books dramatised with The Other Boleyn Girl and The White Queen. New series such as The Tudors and The Borgias set new standards for sex and violence plus the use of modern language for a modern audience. The female roles are noticeably stronger than in the past.
Perhaps it is the success of Downton Abbey more than anything else that has given impetus to the revival of historical drama. It’s been so hugely popular on both sides of the Atlantic that it has surely helped the trend towards more period drama.
The announcement that Poldark is to be remade caused a huge flurry of excitement. Filming starts this 
month with Aidan Turner taking the role of Ross Poldark and Eleanor Tomlinson as Demelza. Meanwhile Sunday nights on the BBC have been enlivened by The Musketeers, described as “a thrilling world of action, adventure and romance inspired by Dumas’ legendary characters.” And that’s not all – next week the BBC
launches yet another historical drama, Jamaica Inn, based on another
classic novel of smuggling and wrecking in the 18th century, this time by Daphne Du Maurier. Meanwhile over on ITV the drama New Worlds is set in 1680s America and England. It seems that the costume drama is back, at least on the small screen!
I’m curious to know if you’ve seen the same trend towards period drama in the US, Australia and other parts of the world. Has the “Downton Abbey effect” made a difference? Are there any of the old costume dramas you loved and any of the new ones you have enjoyed – or not?
I think it is making a come-back Nicola, and hope it is not just wishful thinking on my part! I am currently enjoying re-runs of The Scarlet Pimpernel in the UK (Drama channel). Costumes to die for (certainly they inspire my writing!)
Long may it continue.
I think it is making a come-back Nicola, and hope it is not just wishful thinking on my part! I am currently enjoying re-runs of The Scarlet Pimpernel in the UK (Drama channel). Costumes to die for (certainly they inspire my writing!)
Long may it continue.
I think it is making a come-back Nicola, and hope it is not just wishful thinking on my part! I am currently enjoying re-runs of The Scarlet Pimpernel in the UK (Drama channel). Costumes to die for (certainly they inspire my writing!)
Long may it continue.
I think it is making a come-back Nicola, and hope it is not just wishful thinking on my part! I am currently enjoying re-runs of The Scarlet Pimpernel in the UK (Drama channel). Costumes to die for (certainly they inspire my writing!)
Long may it continue.
I think it is making a come-back Nicola, and hope it is not just wishful thinking on my part! I am currently enjoying re-runs of The Scarlet Pimpernel in the UK (Drama channel). Costumes to die for (certainly they inspire my writing!)
Long may it continue.
Ooh, I loved The Scarlet Pimpernel, Sarah! Another great adventure based on a classic story. I agree about the costumes. If done well all the details of these programmes can have some really useful – and inspiring – details. I’ve certainly been enjoying the weapons and the, ahem, leather in The Musketeers!
Ooh, I loved The Scarlet Pimpernel, Sarah! Another great adventure based on a classic story. I agree about the costumes. If done well all the details of these programmes can have some really useful – and inspiring – details. I’ve certainly been enjoying the weapons and the, ahem, leather in The Musketeers!
Ooh, I loved The Scarlet Pimpernel, Sarah! Another great adventure based on a classic story. I agree about the costumes. If done well all the details of these programmes can have some really useful – and inspiring – details. I’ve certainly been enjoying the weapons and the, ahem, leather in The Musketeers!
Ooh, I loved The Scarlet Pimpernel, Sarah! Another great adventure based on a classic story. I agree about the costumes. If done well all the details of these programmes can have some really useful – and inspiring – details. I’ve certainly been enjoying the weapons and the, ahem, leather in The Musketeers!
Ooh, I loved The Scarlet Pimpernel, Sarah! Another great adventure based on a classic story. I agree about the costumes. If done well all the details of these programmes can have some really useful – and inspiring – details. I’ve certainly been enjoying the weapons and the, ahem, leather in The Musketeers!
Yes, I believe the leather is very good – not sure if it’s historically accurate, but it certainly keeps the viewers interested!
Yes, I believe the leather is very good – not sure if it’s historically accurate, but it certainly keeps the viewers interested!
Yes, I believe the leather is very good – not sure if it’s historically accurate, but it certainly keeps the viewers interested!
Yes, I believe the leather is very good – not sure if it’s historically accurate, but it certainly keeps the viewers interested!
Yes, I believe the leather is very good – not sure if it’s historically accurate, but it certainly keeps the viewers interested!
Peter Capaldi as Richelieu is another bonus!
Peter Capaldi as Richelieu is another bonus!
Peter Capaldi as Richelieu is another bonus!
Peter Capaldi as Richelieu is another bonus!
Peter Capaldi as Richelieu is another bonus!
Going back to the old days in the UK – how about The Pallisers? I was a bit young for it (of course!) but I loved it. I have rather vague memories of Poldark, but that’s probably a good thing so that I can enjoy the remake without yearning for the old one.
Going back to the old days in the UK – how about The Pallisers? I was a bit young for it (of course!) but I loved it. I have rather vague memories of Poldark, but that’s probably a good thing so that I can enjoy the remake without yearning for the old one.
Going back to the old days in the UK – how about The Pallisers? I was a bit young for it (of course!) but I loved it. I have rather vague memories of Poldark, but that’s probably a good thing so that I can enjoy the remake without yearning for the old one.
Going back to the old days in the UK – how about The Pallisers? I was a bit young for it (of course!) but I loved it. I have rather vague memories of Poldark, but that’s probably a good thing so that I can enjoy the remake without yearning for the old one.
Going back to the old days in the UK – how about The Pallisers? I was a bit young for it (of course!) but I loved it. I have rather vague memories of Poldark, but that’s probably a good thing so that I can enjoy the remake without yearning for the old one.
You know, I’ve tried and I’ve tried, but for the life of me I can’t get into Downton Abbey. I love the costumes (my favourite era for fashion) but all the (9000000) characters I either hate or I find very boring!
My favourite recent period drama was is the 2008 Sense and Sensibility. It’s a little bit anachronistic, but I think it’s the best Jane Austen adaptation. The lead actors are all age-appropriate and are fantastic as their characters.
I actually hate a lot of the so-called period drama now. That awful Reign show where the 1500s women are wearing modern strapless prom dresses – what’s the point? How about The Tudors with a slim, dark-haired heartthrob playing Henry the Eighth?!
Maybe not quite so much at the moment, but for most of the history of television, what was on British television was on Australian television. When I moved to London in 2000 I could keep watching all the same shows I did in Australia. I grew up with the ABC and all their British broadcasting.
You know, I’ve tried and I’ve tried, but for the life of me I can’t get into Downton Abbey. I love the costumes (my favourite era for fashion) but all the (9000000) characters I either hate or I find very boring!
My favourite recent period drama was is the 2008 Sense and Sensibility. It’s a little bit anachronistic, but I think it’s the best Jane Austen adaptation. The lead actors are all age-appropriate and are fantastic as their characters.
I actually hate a lot of the so-called period drama now. That awful Reign show where the 1500s women are wearing modern strapless prom dresses – what’s the point? How about The Tudors with a slim, dark-haired heartthrob playing Henry the Eighth?!
Maybe not quite so much at the moment, but for most of the history of television, what was on British television was on Australian television. When I moved to London in 2000 I could keep watching all the same shows I did in Australia. I grew up with the ABC and all their British broadcasting.
You know, I’ve tried and I’ve tried, but for the life of me I can’t get into Downton Abbey. I love the costumes (my favourite era for fashion) but all the (9000000) characters I either hate or I find very boring!
My favourite recent period drama was is the 2008 Sense and Sensibility. It’s a little bit anachronistic, but I think it’s the best Jane Austen adaptation. The lead actors are all age-appropriate and are fantastic as their characters.
I actually hate a lot of the so-called period drama now. That awful Reign show where the 1500s women are wearing modern strapless prom dresses – what’s the point? How about The Tudors with a slim, dark-haired heartthrob playing Henry the Eighth?!
Maybe not quite so much at the moment, but for most of the history of television, what was on British television was on Australian television. When I moved to London in 2000 I could keep watching all the same shows I did in Australia. I grew up with the ABC and all their British broadcasting.
You know, I’ve tried and I’ve tried, but for the life of me I can’t get into Downton Abbey. I love the costumes (my favourite era for fashion) but all the (9000000) characters I either hate or I find very boring!
My favourite recent period drama was is the 2008 Sense and Sensibility. It’s a little bit anachronistic, but I think it’s the best Jane Austen adaptation. The lead actors are all age-appropriate and are fantastic as their characters.
I actually hate a lot of the so-called period drama now. That awful Reign show where the 1500s women are wearing modern strapless prom dresses – what’s the point? How about The Tudors with a slim, dark-haired heartthrob playing Henry the Eighth?!
Maybe not quite so much at the moment, but for most of the history of television, what was on British television was on Australian television. When I moved to London in 2000 I could keep watching all the same shows I did in Australia. I grew up with the ABC and all their British broadcasting.
You know, I’ve tried and I’ve tried, but for the life of me I can’t get into Downton Abbey. I love the costumes (my favourite era for fashion) but all the (9000000) characters I either hate or I find very boring!
My favourite recent period drama was is the 2008 Sense and Sensibility. It’s a little bit anachronistic, but I think it’s the best Jane Austen adaptation. The lead actors are all age-appropriate and are fantastic as their characters.
I actually hate a lot of the so-called period drama now. That awful Reign show where the 1500s women are wearing modern strapless prom dresses – what’s the point? How about The Tudors with a slim, dark-haired heartthrob playing Henry the Eighth?!
Maybe not quite so much at the moment, but for most of the history of television, what was on British television was on Australian television. When I moved to London in 2000 I could keep watching all the same shows I did in Australia. I grew up with the ABC and all their British broadcasting.
Just ignore my typos above!
Just ignore my typos above!
Just ignore my typos above!
Just ignore my typos above!
Just ignore my typos above!
Oh, yes, the Pallisers was another wonderful series. I only have the vaguest memories of it now (so young, of course!) but I was enthralled at the time.
That’s a good point about remakes, HJ. If you are too fond of the original it makes it very difficult to enjoy a new version unless it is equally as good in a different way. I feel much the same about books that are adapted. Still shudder over the TV version of Frenchman’s Creek!
Oh, yes, the Pallisers was another wonderful series. I only have the vaguest memories of it now (so young, of course!) but I was enthralled at the time.
That’s a good point about remakes, HJ. If you are too fond of the original it makes it very difficult to enjoy a new version unless it is equally as good in a different way. I feel much the same about books that are adapted. Still shudder over the TV version of Frenchman’s Creek!
Oh, yes, the Pallisers was another wonderful series. I only have the vaguest memories of it now (so young, of course!) but I was enthralled at the time.
That’s a good point about remakes, HJ. If you are too fond of the original it makes it very difficult to enjoy a new version unless it is equally as good in a different way. I feel much the same about books that are adapted. Still shudder over the TV version of Frenchman’s Creek!
Oh, yes, the Pallisers was another wonderful series. I only have the vaguest memories of it now (so young, of course!) but I was enthralled at the time.
That’s a good point about remakes, HJ. If you are too fond of the original it makes it very difficult to enjoy a new version unless it is equally as good in a different way. I feel much the same about books that are adapted. Still shudder over the TV version of Frenchman’s Creek!
Oh, yes, the Pallisers was another wonderful series. I only have the vaguest memories of it now (so young, of course!) but I was enthralled at the time.
That’s a good point about remakes, HJ. If you are too fond of the original it makes it very difficult to enjoy a new version unless it is equally as good in a different way. I feel much the same about books that are adapted. Still shudder over the TV version of Frenchman’s Creek!
I had to suspend disbelief a great deal to enjoy The Tudors, Sonya. I think it was consciously anachronistic in a lot of places which seems often to be the style now. The Musketeers had a similar approach, especially to the dialogue, which was witty but very modern.
Fortunately the show with the prom dresses has passed me by!
There is nothing more disappointing than bad costume drama IMO. But the good stuff is wonderful. That film version of Sense and Sensibility was great.
I had to suspend disbelief a great deal to enjoy The Tudors, Sonya. I think it was consciously anachronistic in a lot of places which seems often to be the style now. The Musketeers had a similar approach, especially to the dialogue, which was witty but very modern.
Fortunately the show with the prom dresses has passed me by!
There is nothing more disappointing than bad costume drama IMO. But the good stuff is wonderful. That film version of Sense and Sensibility was great.
I had to suspend disbelief a great deal to enjoy The Tudors, Sonya. I think it was consciously anachronistic in a lot of places which seems often to be the style now. The Musketeers had a similar approach, especially to the dialogue, which was witty but very modern.
Fortunately the show with the prom dresses has passed me by!
There is nothing more disappointing than bad costume drama IMO. But the good stuff is wonderful. That film version of Sense and Sensibility was great.
I had to suspend disbelief a great deal to enjoy The Tudors, Sonya. I think it was consciously anachronistic in a lot of places which seems often to be the style now. The Musketeers had a similar approach, especially to the dialogue, which was witty but very modern.
Fortunately the show with the prom dresses has passed me by!
There is nothing more disappointing than bad costume drama IMO. But the good stuff is wonderful. That film version of Sense and Sensibility was great.
I had to suspend disbelief a great deal to enjoy The Tudors, Sonya. I think it was consciously anachronistic in a lot of places which seems often to be the style now. The Musketeers had a similar approach, especially to the dialogue, which was witty but very modern.
Fortunately the show with the prom dresses has passed me by!
There is nothing more disappointing than bad costume drama IMO. But the good stuff is wonderful. That film version of Sense and Sensibility was great.
Nicola–
Your post brings back so many fond memories! I hope you’re right that costume drama is enjoying a revival, because if well done it’s tremendous fun. I enjoyed the first Poldark, but the new Ross looks very authentically smoldery, so I lood forward to it. In the US, Western filled a large part of the costume drama market, though there doesn’t seem to be much of a revival in that area. It’s a form the British do so very, very well.
And now I’m thinking of the Six Wives of Henry VIII…
Nicola–
Your post brings back so many fond memories! I hope you’re right that costume drama is enjoying a revival, because if well done it’s tremendous fun. I enjoyed the first Poldark, but the new Ross looks very authentically smoldery, so I lood forward to it. In the US, Western filled a large part of the costume drama market, though there doesn’t seem to be much of a revival in that area. It’s a form the British do so very, very well.
And now I’m thinking of the Six Wives of Henry VIII…
Nicola–
Your post brings back so many fond memories! I hope you’re right that costume drama is enjoying a revival, because if well done it’s tremendous fun. I enjoyed the first Poldark, but the new Ross looks very authentically smoldery, so I lood forward to it. In the US, Western filled a large part of the costume drama market, though there doesn’t seem to be much of a revival in that area. It’s a form the British do so very, very well.
And now I’m thinking of the Six Wives of Henry VIII…
Nicola–
Your post brings back so many fond memories! I hope you’re right that costume drama is enjoying a revival, because if well done it’s tremendous fun. I enjoyed the first Poldark, but the new Ross looks very authentically smoldery, so I lood forward to it. In the US, Western filled a large part of the costume drama market, though there doesn’t seem to be much of a revival in that area. It’s a form the British do so very, very well.
And now I’m thinking of the Six Wives of Henry VIII…
Nicola–
Your post brings back so many fond memories! I hope you’re right that costume drama is enjoying a revival, because if well done it’s tremendous fun. I enjoyed the first Poldark, but the new Ross looks very authentically smoldery, so I lood forward to it. In the US, Western filled a large part of the costume drama market, though there doesn’t seem to be much of a revival in that area. It’s a form the British do so very, very well.
And now I’m thinking of the Six Wives of Henry VIII…
I do think they have made a good choice for the new Ross Poldark, Mary Jo. Definitely smouldering! I don’t know if the BBC programme about the Pre-Raphaelites was shown in the US but Aidan Turner played Rossetti in that and did a pretty good job of it!
I do think they have made a good choice for the new Ross Poldark, Mary Jo. Definitely smouldering! I don’t know if the BBC programme about the Pre-Raphaelites was shown in the US but Aidan Turner played Rossetti in that and did a pretty good job of it!
I do think they have made a good choice for the new Ross Poldark, Mary Jo. Definitely smouldering! I don’t know if the BBC programme about the Pre-Raphaelites was shown in the US but Aidan Turner played Rossetti in that and did a pretty good job of it!
I do think they have made a good choice for the new Ross Poldark, Mary Jo. Definitely smouldering! I don’t know if the BBC programme about the Pre-Raphaelites was shown in the US but Aidan Turner played Rossetti in that and did a pretty good job of it!
I do think they have made a good choice for the new Ross Poldark, Mary Jo. Definitely smouldering! I don’t know if the BBC programme about the Pre-Raphaelites was shown in the US but Aidan Turner played Rossetti in that and did a pretty good job of it!
The new Ross Poldark looks suitably yummy and i did enjoy the Musketeers- or must get beers as my irreverent other half called it ! Though the budget couldn’t have run to too many extras as there always seemed to be a dirth of servants about and it didn’t always tie in with early seventeenth century French History as I remember it.Still it definitely enlivened a Sunday evening !We had Moonfleet on over Christmas as well -smugglers and dastardly deeds on the Dorset coast and long enough since I read the book not to compare .
The new Ross Poldark looks suitably yummy and i did enjoy the Musketeers- or must get beers as my irreverent other half called it ! Though the budget couldn’t have run to too many extras as there always seemed to be a dirth of servants about and it didn’t always tie in with early seventeenth century French History as I remember it.Still it definitely enlivened a Sunday evening !We had Moonfleet on over Christmas as well -smugglers and dastardly deeds on the Dorset coast and long enough since I read the book not to compare .
The new Ross Poldark looks suitably yummy and i did enjoy the Musketeers- or must get beers as my irreverent other half called it ! Though the budget couldn’t have run to too many extras as there always seemed to be a dirth of servants about and it didn’t always tie in with early seventeenth century French History as I remember it.Still it definitely enlivened a Sunday evening !We had Moonfleet on over Christmas as well -smugglers and dastardly deeds on the Dorset coast and long enough since I read the book not to compare .
The new Ross Poldark looks suitably yummy and i did enjoy the Musketeers- or must get beers as my irreverent other half called it ! Though the budget couldn’t have run to too many extras as there always seemed to be a dirth of servants about and it didn’t always tie in with early seventeenth century French History as I remember it.Still it definitely enlivened a Sunday evening !We had Moonfleet on over Christmas as well -smugglers and dastardly deeds on the Dorset coast and long enough since I read the book not to compare .
The new Ross Poldark looks suitably yummy and i did enjoy the Musketeers- or must get beers as my irreverent other half called it ! Though the budget couldn’t have run to too many extras as there always seemed to be a dirth of servants about and it didn’t always tie in with early seventeenth century French History as I remember it.Still it definitely enlivened a Sunday evening !We had Moonfleet on over Christmas as well -smugglers and dastardly deeds on the Dorset coast and long enough since I read the book not to compare .
*smug smile* I picked Aidan Turner out as suitable for breeches roles a while back and that note – with his picture- still gets lots of hits on my blog. Smoulder + breeches + silk dresses and fans… and leather; costume dramas have all the good ingredients. Of course it needs a good director but the way the leather-clad musketeers have swept all before them shows there is a real place for new versions of historical tales. I can’t wait!!
*smug smile* I picked Aidan Turner out as suitable for breeches roles a while back and that note – with his picture- still gets lots of hits on my blog. Smoulder + breeches + silk dresses and fans… and leather; costume dramas have all the good ingredients. Of course it needs a good director but the way the leather-clad musketeers have swept all before them shows there is a real place for new versions of historical tales. I can’t wait!!
*smug smile* I picked Aidan Turner out as suitable for breeches roles a while back and that note – with his picture- still gets lots of hits on my blog. Smoulder + breeches + silk dresses and fans… and leather; costume dramas have all the good ingredients. Of course it needs a good director but the way the leather-clad musketeers have swept all before them shows there is a real place for new versions of historical tales. I can’t wait!!
*smug smile* I picked Aidan Turner out as suitable for breeches roles a while back and that note – with his picture- still gets lots of hits on my blog. Smoulder + breeches + silk dresses and fans… and leather; costume dramas have all the good ingredients. Of course it needs a good director but the way the leather-clad musketeers have swept all before them shows there is a real place for new versions of historical tales. I can’t wait!!
*smug smile* I picked Aidan Turner out as suitable for breeches roles a while back and that note – with his picture- still gets lots of hits on my blog. Smoulder + breeches + silk dresses and fans… and leather; costume dramas have all the good ingredients. Of course it needs a good director but the way the leather-clad musketeers have swept all before them shows there is a real place for new versions of historical tales. I can’t wait!!
I’m certain the popularity of Downton Abbey has and will spur more costume dramas in the future. I do like Downton Abbey, having watched the first four seasons on DVD, but I do hope every aspiring writer in the business doesn’t suddenly decide to write Edwardian set romance in the hope of hitching their wagon to the Downton Abbey star.
I love costume dramas. I am eagerly awaiting the arrival of the second season of Ripper Street on DVD. It’s a great series and I’ve learned lots of interesting things about the Jack the Ripper era in London’s history.
I haven’t seen The Musketeers yet, but I have always been a fan of the novel.
I believe a series about spies during the American Revolution is due to debut soon. Should be interesting!
I’m certain the popularity of Downton Abbey has and will spur more costume dramas in the future. I do like Downton Abbey, having watched the first four seasons on DVD, but I do hope every aspiring writer in the business doesn’t suddenly decide to write Edwardian set romance in the hope of hitching their wagon to the Downton Abbey star.
I love costume dramas. I am eagerly awaiting the arrival of the second season of Ripper Street on DVD. It’s a great series and I’ve learned lots of interesting things about the Jack the Ripper era in London’s history.
I haven’t seen The Musketeers yet, but I have always been a fan of the novel.
I believe a series about spies during the American Revolution is due to debut soon. Should be interesting!
I’m certain the popularity of Downton Abbey has and will spur more costume dramas in the future. I do like Downton Abbey, having watched the first four seasons on DVD, but I do hope every aspiring writer in the business doesn’t suddenly decide to write Edwardian set romance in the hope of hitching their wagon to the Downton Abbey star.
I love costume dramas. I am eagerly awaiting the arrival of the second season of Ripper Street on DVD. It’s a great series and I’ve learned lots of interesting things about the Jack the Ripper era in London’s history.
I haven’t seen The Musketeers yet, but I have always been a fan of the novel.
I believe a series about spies during the American Revolution is due to debut soon. Should be interesting!
I’m certain the popularity of Downton Abbey has and will spur more costume dramas in the future. I do like Downton Abbey, having watched the first four seasons on DVD, but I do hope every aspiring writer in the business doesn’t suddenly decide to write Edwardian set romance in the hope of hitching their wagon to the Downton Abbey star.
I love costume dramas. I am eagerly awaiting the arrival of the second season of Ripper Street on DVD. It’s a great series and I’ve learned lots of interesting things about the Jack the Ripper era in London’s history.
I haven’t seen The Musketeers yet, but I have always been a fan of the novel.
I believe a series about spies during the American Revolution is due to debut soon. Should be interesting!
I’m certain the popularity of Downton Abbey has and will spur more costume dramas in the future. I do like Downton Abbey, having watched the first four seasons on DVD, but I do hope every aspiring writer in the business doesn’t suddenly decide to write Edwardian set romance in the hope of hitching their wagon to the Downton Abbey star.
I love costume dramas. I am eagerly awaiting the arrival of the second season of Ripper Street on DVD. It’s a great series and I’ve learned lots of interesting things about the Jack the Ripper era in London’s history.
I haven’t seen The Musketeers yet, but I have always been a fan of the novel.
I believe a series about spies during the American Revolution is due to debut soon. Should be interesting!
I love costume dramas. Unfortunately, they are not made by American TV companies. We must rely on British TV to fill the gap — and what a wonderful job they do!! Thank you, thank you. (and to PBS for bringing them here). It seems, though, that we do not get all that are made –how sad.
I love costume dramas. Unfortunately, they are not made by American TV companies. We must rely on British TV to fill the gap — and what a wonderful job they do!! Thank you, thank you. (and to PBS for bringing them here). It seems, though, that we do not get all that are made –how sad.
I love costume dramas. Unfortunately, they are not made by American TV companies. We must rely on British TV to fill the gap — and what a wonderful job they do!! Thank you, thank you. (and to PBS for bringing them here). It seems, though, that we do not get all that are made –how sad.
I love costume dramas. Unfortunately, they are not made by American TV companies. We must rely on British TV to fill the gap — and what a wonderful job they do!! Thank you, thank you. (and to PBS for bringing them here). It seems, though, that we do not get all that are made –how sad.
I love costume dramas. Unfortunately, they are not made by American TV companies. We must rely on British TV to fill the gap — and what a wonderful job they do!! Thank you, thank you. (and to PBS for bringing them here). It seems, though, that we do not get all that are made –how sad.
I’m not a TV viewer, but a number of years ago the silent movie version of the Three Musketeers was serialised here in Australia and it was great. The Musketeers spent most of the time galloping across the screen, and then the words in a little baloon appeared on the next screen, all accompanied by music from one of the Eastern European symphony orchestras. The film had been re-mastered to modern music. It was great. I actually taped it on VHS, all (about) 30 episodes. I will eventually get around to having it put on DVD so I can watch it again without having to fiddle with cords and machines. The only costume drama I can think of that is currently on local TV, apart from Downton Abbey of course, is the Vikings. I catch a bit of it now and then. There are probably more but I can’t think of them.
I’m not a TV viewer, but a number of years ago the silent movie version of the Three Musketeers was serialised here in Australia and it was great. The Musketeers spent most of the time galloping across the screen, and then the words in a little baloon appeared on the next screen, all accompanied by music from one of the Eastern European symphony orchestras. The film had been re-mastered to modern music. It was great. I actually taped it on VHS, all (about) 30 episodes. I will eventually get around to having it put on DVD so I can watch it again without having to fiddle with cords and machines. The only costume drama I can think of that is currently on local TV, apart from Downton Abbey of course, is the Vikings. I catch a bit of it now and then. There are probably more but I can’t think of them.
I’m not a TV viewer, but a number of years ago the silent movie version of the Three Musketeers was serialised here in Australia and it was great. The Musketeers spent most of the time galloping across the screen, and then the words in a little baloon appeared on the next screen, all accompanied by music from one of the Eastern European symphony orchestras. The film had been re-mastered to modern music. It was great. I actually taped it on VHS, all (about) 30 episodes. I will eventually get around to having it put on DVD so I can watch it again without having to fiddle with cords and machines. The only costume drama I can think of that is currently on local TV, apart from Downton Abbey of course, is the Vikings. I catch a bit of it now and then. There are probably more but I can’t think of them.
I’m not a TV viewer, but a number of years ago the silent movie version of the Three Musketeers was serialised here in Australia and it was great. The Musketeers spent most of the time galloping across the screen, and then the words in a little baloon appeared on the next screen, all accompanied by music from one of the Eastern European symphony orchestras. The film had been re-mastered to modern music. It was great. I actually taped it on VHS, all (about) 30 episodes. I will eventually get around to having it put on DVD so I can watch it again without having to fiddle with cords and machines. The only costume drama I can think of that is currently on local TV, apart from Downton Abbey of course, is the Vikings. I catch a bit of it now and then. There are probably more but I can’t think of them.
I’m not a TV viewer, but a number of years ago the silent movie version of the Three Musketeers was serialised here in Australia and it was great. The Musketeers spent most of the time galloping across the screen, and then the words in a little baloon appeared on the next screen, all accompanied by music from one of the Eastern European symphony orchestras. The film had been re-mastered to modern music. It was great. I actually taped it on VHS, all (about) 30 episodes. I will eventually get around to having it put on DVD so I can watch it again without having to fiddle with cords and machines. The only costume drama I can think of that is currently on local TV, apart from Downton Abbey of course, is the Vikings. I catch a bit of it now and then. There are probably more but I can’t think of them.
Haha! That’s a very appropriate comment by your other half, Jo! The Musketeers definitely brightened my Sunday evenings, even with the anachronisms. Moonfleet! I love Moonfleet. It would be wonderful if they remade it.
Haha! That’s a very appropriate comment by your other half, Jo! The Musketeers definitely brightened my Sunday evenings, even with the anachronisms. Moonfleet! I love Moonfleet. It would be wonderful if they remade it.
Haha! That’s a very appropriate comment by your other half, Jo! The Musketeers definitely brightened my Sunday evenings, even with the anachronisms. Moonfleet! I love Moonfleet. It would be wonderful if they remade it.
Haha! That’s a very appropriate comment by your other half, Jo! The Musketeers definitely brightened my Sunday evenings, even with the anachronisms. Moonfleet! I love Moonfleet. It would be wonderful if they remade it.
Haha! That’s a very appropriate comment by your other half, Jo! The Musketeers definitely brightened my Sunday evenings, even with the anachronisms. Moonfleet! I love Moonfleet. It would be wonderful if they remade it.
You clearly have an eye for historical talent, Beth!
You clearly have an eye for historical talent, Beth!
You clearly have an eye for historical talent, Beth!
You clearly have an eye for historical talent, Beth!
You clearly have an eye for historical talent, Beth!
I hope we get that series about spies during the American Revolution, Louisa. That sounds as though it would be fascinating. I’d love to see more American-set period drama on our screens here.
I hope we get that series about spies during the American Revolution, Louisa. That sounds as though it would be fascinating. I’d love to see more American-set period drama on our screens here.
I hope we get that series about spies during the American Revolution, Louisa. That sounds as though it would be fascinating. I’d love to see more American-set period drama on our screens here.
I hope we get that series about spies during the American Revolution, Louisa. That sounds as though it would be fascinating. I’d love to see more American-set period drama on our screens here.
I hope we get that series about spies during the American Revolution, Louisa. That sounds as though it would be fascinating. I’d love to see more American-set period drama on our screens here.
I think it would be great if American TV companies decided to make more period drama, Alison. More variety for all of us!
I think it would be great if American TV companies decided to make more period drama, Alison. More variety for all of us!
I think it would be great if American TV companies decided to make more period drama, Alison. More variety for all of us!
I think it would be great if American TV companies decided to make more period drama, Alison. More variety for all of us!
I think it would be great if American TV companies decided to make more period drama, Alison. More variety for all of us!
That version of The Musketeers sounds like a lot of fun, Jenny!
That version of The Musketeers sounds like a lot of fun, Jenny!
That version of The Musketeers sounds like a lot of fun, Jenny!
That version of The Musketeers sounds like a lot of fun, Jenny!
That version of The Musketeers sounds like a lot of fun, Jenny!
In the US, we’ve a new series – TURN – Based on Alexander Rose’s book Washington’s Spies, AMC’s TURN tells the untold story of America’s first spy ring. A historical thriller set during the Revolutionary War, TURN
Set during the 1770’s….pretty cool Can watch on computer via AMC -American Movie Channel..
In the US, we’ve a new series – TURN – Based on Alexander Rose’s book Washington’s Spies, AMC’s TURN tells the untold story of America’s first spy ring. A historical thriller set during the Revolutionary War, TURN
Set during the 1770’s….pretty cool Can watch on computer via AMC -American Movie Channel..
In the US, we’ve a new series – TURN – Based on Alexander Rose’s book Washington’s Spies, AMC’s TURN tells the untold story of America’s first spy ring. A historical thriller set during the Revolutionary War, TURN
Set during the 1770’s….pretty cool Can watch on computer via AMC -American Movie Channel..
In the US, we’ve a new series – TURN – Based on Alexander Rose’s book Washington’s Spies, AMC’s TURN tells the untold story of America’s first spy ring. A historical thriller set during the Revolutionary War, TURN
Set during the 1770’s….pretty cool Can watch on computer via AMC -American Movie Channel..
In the US, we’ve a new series – TURN – Based on Alexander Rose’s book Washington’s Spies, AMC’s TURN tells the untold story of America’s first spy ring. A historical thriller set during the Revolutionary War, TURN
Set during the 1770’s….pretty cool Can watch on computer via AMC -American Movie Channel..
I love the new costume drama Nicolas Le Floch. I found it on MHz Networks. It’s a French series that takes place in 18th century Paris. Check it out, I don’t think you will be disappointed.
I love the new costume drama Nicolas Le Floch. I found it on MHz Networks. It’s a French series that takes place in 18th century Paris. Check it out, I don’t think you will be disappointed.
I love the new costume drama Nicolas Le Floch. I found it on MHz Networks. It’s a French series that takes place in 18th century Paris. Check it out, I don’t think you will be disappointed.
I love the new costume drama Nicolas Le Floch. I found it on MHz Networks. It’s a French series that takes place in 18th century Paris. Check it out, I don’t think you will be disappointed.
I love the new costume drama Nicolas Le Floch. I found it on MHz Networks. It’s a French series that takes place in 18th century Paris. Check it out, I don’t think you will be disappointed.
I don’t think all the costume dramas you mentioned made it to the U.S., although I fondly remember “Upstairs, Downstairs”. My favorite old series, although it is a much different era, was “I, Claudius”, based on the Robert Graves book. The cast was excellent, and the story I believe was mostly true!
I don’t think all the costume dramas you mentioned made it to the U.S., although I fondly remember “Upstairs, Downstairs”. My favorite old series, although it is a much different era, was “I, Claudius”, based on the Robert Graves book. The cast was excellent, and the story I believe was mostly true!
I don’t think all the costume dramas you mentioned made it to the U.S., although I fondly remember “Upstairs, Downstairs”. My favorite old series, although it is a much different era, was “I, Claudius”, based on the Robert Graves book. The cast was excellent, and the story I believe was mostly true!
I don’t think all the costume dramas you mentioned made it to the U.S., although I fondly remember “Upstairs, Downstairs”. My favorite old series, although it is a much different era, was “I, Claudius”, based on the Robert Graves book. The cast was excellent, and the story I believe was mostly true!
I don’t think all the costume dramas you mentioned made it to the U.S., although I fondly remember “Upstairs, Downstairs”. My favorite old series, although it is a much different era, was “I, Claudius”, based on the Robert Graves book. The cast was excellent, and the story I believe was mostly true!
My favorite will always be The Duchess of Duke Street, which ran here in the U.S. in the late 70s, and took us from the late Victoiran years through the Edwardian period and into the 1920s. The story was wonderfully romantic, the characters vivid, and the sets and costumes quite splendid. I received the full series on DVD for Christmas a few years ago, and I have watched it twice–with certain episodes receiving multiple viewings. Gemma James and Christopher Cazenove never had better roles, and as much as I enjoyed the 2008 Sense and Sensibility, seeing Gemma James as Eleanor’s and Marianne’s mother was a shock! And I couldn’t agree more with Alison’s comment–if it wasn’t for British historical series, we’d see very few costume dramas here!
My favorite will always be The Duchess of Duke Street, which ran here in the U.S. in the late 70s, and took us from the late Victoiran years through the Edwardian period and into the 1920s. The story was wonderfully romantic, the characters vivid, and the sets and costumes quite splendid. I received the full series on DVD for Christmas a few years ago, and I have watched it twice–with certain episodes receiving multiple viewings. Gemma James and Christopher Cazenove never had better roles, and as much as I enjoyed the 2008 Sense and Sensibility, seeing Gemma James as Eleanor’s and Marianne’s mother was a shock! And I couldn’t agree more with Alison’s comment–if it wasn’t for British historical series, we’d see very few costume dramas here!
My favorite will always be The Duchess of Duke Street, which ran here in the U.S. in the late 70s, and took us from the late Victoiran years through the Edwardian period and into the 1920s. The story was wonderfully romantic, the characters vivid, and the sets and costumes quite splendid. I received the full series on DVD for Christmas a few years ago, and I have watched it twice–with certain episodes receiving multiple viewings. Gemma James and Christopher Cazenove never had better roles, and as much as I enjoyed the 2008 Sense and Sensibility, seeing Gemma James as Eleanor’s and Marianne’s mother was a shock! And I couldn’t agree more with Alison’s comment–if it wasn’t for British historical series, we’d see very few costume dramas here!
My favorite will always be The Duchess of Duke Street, which ran here in the U.S. in the late 70s, and took us from the late Victoiran years through the Edwardian period and into the 1920s. The story was wonderfully romantic, the characters vivid, and the sets and costumes quite splendid. I received the full series on DVD for Christmas a few years ago, and I have watched it twice–with certain episodes receiving multiple viewings. Gemma James and Christopher Cazenove never had better roles, and as much as I enjoyed the 2008 Sense and Sensibility, seeing Gemma James as Eleanor’s and Marianne’s mother was a shock! And I couldn’t agree more with Alison’s comment–if it wasn’t for British historical series, we’d see very few costume dramas here!
My favorite will always be The Duchess of Duke Street, which ran here in the U.S. in the late 70s, and took us from the late Victoiran years through the Edwardian period and into the 1920s. The story was wonderfully romantic, the characters vivid, and the sets and costumes quite splendid. I received the full series on DVD for Christmas a few years ago, and I have watched it twice–with certain episodes receiving multiple viewings. Gemma James and Christopher Cazenove never had better roles, and as much as I enjoyed the 2008 Sense and Sensibility, seeing Gemma James as Eleanor’s and Marianne’s mother was a shock! And I couldn’t agree more with Alison’s comment–if it wasn’t for British historical series, we’d see very few costume dramas here!
I’m looking forward to the TV version of the first Outlander book by Diana Gabaldon which is right now being filmed in Scotland by Starz.
I’m looking forward to the TV version of the first Outlander book by Diana Gabaldon which is right now being filmed in Scotland by Starz.
I’m looking forward to the TV version of the first Outlander book by Diana Gabaldon which is right now being filmed in Scotland by Starz.
I’m looking forward to the TV version of the first Outlander book by Diana Gabaldon which is right now being filmed in Scotland by Starz.
I’m looking forward to the TV version of the first Outlander book by Diana Gabaldon which is right now being filmed in Scotland by Starz.
That’s the series I read about, Nicola! TURN. Thanks, Kate S. I couldn’t remember the title. I read the book and found it fascinating. I hope the series is as good.
That’s the series I read about, Nicola! TURN. Thanks, Kate S. I couldn’t remember the title. I read the book and found it fascinating. I hope the series is as good.
That’s the series I read about, Nicola! TURN. Thanks, Kate S. I couldn’t remember the title. I read the book and found it fascinating. I hope the series is as good.
That’s the series I read about, Nicola! TURN. Thanks, Kate S. I couldn’t remember the title. I read the book and found it fascinating. I hope the series is as good.
That’s the series I read about, Nicola! TURN. Thanks, Kate S. I couldn’t remember the title. I read the book and found it fascinating. I hope the series is as good.
TURN is really well done, and enhanced by the lack of big name stars. At one time I was really into the Revolution and read a lot on the espionage. The character of Simcoe is suitably bad considering how he ended up post-war. I’m waiting for my personal hero, Robert Townsend.
TURN is really well done, and enhanced by the lack of big name stars. At one time I was really into the Revolution and read a lot on the espionage. The character of Simcoe is suitably bad considering how he ended up post-war. I’m waiting for my personal hero, Robert Townsend.
TURN is really well done, and enhanced by the lack of big name stars. At one time I was really into the Revolution and read a lot on the espionage. The character of Simcoe is suitably bad considering how he ended up post-war. I’m waiting for my personal hero, Robert Townsend.
TURN is really well done, and enhanced by the lack of big name stars. At one time I was really into the Revolution and read a lot on the espionage. The character of Simcoe is suitably bad considering how he ended up post-war. I’m waiting for my personal hero, Robert Townsend.
TURN is really well done, and enhanced by the lack of big name stars. At one time I was really into the Revolution and read a lot on the espionage. The character of Simcoe is suitably bad considering how he ended up post-war. I’m waiting for my personal hero, Robert Townsend.
Thanks, Kate – I will see if I can get this over here via the computer. Sounds really good.
Thanks, Kate – I will see if I can get this over here via the computer. Sounds really good.
Thanks, Kate – I will see if I can get this over here via the computer. Sounds really good.
Thanks, Kate – I will see if I can get this over here via the computer. Sounds really good.
Thanks, Kate – I will see if I can get this over here via the computer. Sounds really good.
Thanks so much for the recommendation, Jackie. I will check it out.
Thanks so much for the recommendation, Jackie. I will check it out.
Thanks so much for the recommendation, Jackie. I will check it out.
Thanks so much for the recommendation, Jackie. I will check it out.
Thanks so much for the recommendation, Jackie. I will check it out.
That was a brilliant series, Karin, wasn’t it! I remember finding it quite shocking at the time, with lots of sex and violence!
That was a brilliant series, Karin, wasn’t it! I remember finding it quite shocking at the time, with lots of sex and violence!
That was a brilliant series, Karin, wasn’t it! I remember finding it quite shocking at the time, with lots of sex and violence!
That was a brilliant series, Karin, wasn’t it! I remember finding it quite shocking at the time, with lots of sex and violence!
That was a brilliant series, Karin, wasn’t it! I remember finding it quite shocking at the time, with lots of sex and violence!
I remember The Duchess of Duke Street, Constance. Christopher Cazenove made quite an impression on me in my youth! It was a lovely series.
I remember The Duchess of Duke Street, Constance. Christopher Cazenove made quite an impression on me in my youth! It was a lovely series.
I remember The Duchess of Duke Street, Constance. Christopher Cazenove made quite an impression on me in my youth! It was a lovely series.
I remember The Duchess of Duke Street, Constance. Christopher Cazenove made quite an impression on me in my youth! It was a lovely series.
I remember The Duchess of Duke Street, Constance. Christopher Cazenove made quite an impression on me in my youth! It was a lovely series.
I hadn’t heard they were making that – hope we get that one too!
I hadn’t heard they were making that – hope we get that one too!
I hadn’t heard they were making that – hope we get that one too!
I hadn’t heard they were making that – hope we get that one too!
I hadn’t heard they were making that – hope we get that one too!
I’m definitely going to try and find this series online. It sounds fascinating.
I’m definitely going to try and find this series online. It sounds fascinating.
I’m definitely going to try and find this series online. It sounds fascinating.
I’m definitely going to try and find this series online. It sounds fascinating.
I’m definitely going to try and find this series online. It sounds fascinating.
I think it’s a worldwide trend. Downton Abby and The Tudors are seen everywhere! Or The Vikings.
All the TV series you have already mentioned are seen in Spain as well. So I will mention a few of the ones that you’d probably haven’t seen yet, as they are Spanish (although I know some of them have been sold to foreign channels).
The most appreciated in the last few years:
‘Isabel’ which is set in the 15th century and it’s very Tudor-like, a lot of political intrigue and sex, about Isabella I of Castile and Ferdinand of Aragon.
‘Águila Roja’ (This is ‘Read Eagle’) cloak & dagger adventures in the 17th century.
‘Gran Hotel’ (Grand Hotel) a soap opera set in 1905 kind of ‘Spanish Edwardian times’.
Lots of TV series are set in the first half of the 20th century. Two of the most popular are ‘El tiempo entre costuras’ (The book that inspired this series was translated as ‘The Seamstress’) and ‘Amar en tiempos revueltos’ (I would translate it as ‘To Love in Troubled Times’).
Some of the series are different, because of the setting, for instance ‘Hispania’ (Roman times), or ‘Toledo’ (Middle Ages).
A couple of funny details for the wenches. First, the plot of ‘Bandolera’: Andalusia, 19 th century, a young English woman who pursues her dreams of becoming a writer and travels to Spain in search of adventure… Second, the series set during our Independence War against the French army (yes, the Peninsular War): ‘Curro Jiménez’ in the 1970s, it was ‘the’ TV series of my childhood.
You can find a list of the best historical series & mini-series in this Spanish poll – I’m sure you will easily recognize the majority of the titles. http://listas.20minutos.es/lista/series-de-epoca-360312/ North & South, Pride & Prejudice and Downton Abby are the favourites!
I think it’s a worldwide trend. Downton Abby and The Tudors are seen everywhere! Or The Vikings.
All the TV series you have already mentioned are seen in Spain as well. So I will mention a few of the ones that you’d probably haven’t seen yet, as they are Spanish (although I know some of them have been sold to foreign channels).
The most appreciated in the last few years:
‘Isabel’ which is set in the 15th century and it’s very Tudor-like, a lot of political intrigue and sex, about Isabella I of Castile and Ferdinand of Aragon.
‘Águila Roja’ (This is ‘Read Eagle’) cloak & dagger adventures in the 17th century.
‘Gran Hotel’ (Grand Hotel) a soap opera set in 1905 kind of ‘Spanish Edwardian times’.
Lots of TV series are set in the first half of the 20th century. Two of the most popular are ‘El tiempo entre costuras’ (The book that inspired this series was translated as ‘The Seamstress’) and ‘Amar en tiempos revueltos’ (I would translate it as ‘To Love in Troubled Times’).
Some of the series are different, because of the setting, for instance ‘Hispania’ (Roman times), or ‘Toledo’ (Middle Ages).
A couple of funny details for the wenches. First, the plot of ‘Bandolera’: Andalusia, 19 th century, a young English woman who pursues her dreams of becoming a writer and travels to Spain in search of adventure… Second, the series set during our Independence War against the French army (yes, the Peninsular War): ‘Curro Jiménez’ in the 1970s, it was ‘the’ TV series of my childhood.
You can find a list of the best historical series & mini-series in this Spanish poll – I’m sure you will easily recognize the majority of the titles. http://listas.20minutos.es/lista/series-de-epoca-360312/ North & South, Pride & Prejudice and Downton Abby are the favourites!
I think it’s a worldwide trend. Downton Abby and The Tudors are seen everywhere! Or The Vikings.
All the TV series you have already mentioned are seen in Spain as well. So I will mention a few of the ones that you’d probably haven’t seen yet, as they are Spanish (although I know some of them have been sold to foreign channels).
The most appreciated in the last few years:
‘Isabel’ which is set in the 15th century and it’s very Tudor-like, a lot of political intrigue and sex, about Isabella I of Castile and Ferdinand of Aragon.
‘Águila Roja’ (This is ‘Read Eagle’) cloak & dagger adventures in the 17th century.
‘Gran Hotel’ (Grand Hotel) a soap opera set in 1905 kind of ‘Spanish Edwardian times’.
Lots of TV series are set in the first half of the 20th century. Two of the most popular are ‘El tiempo entre costuras’ (The book that inspired this series was translated as ‘The Seamstress’) and ‘Amar en tiempos revueltos’ (I would translate it as ‘To Love in Troubled Times’).
Some of the series are different, because of the setting, for instance ‘Hispania’ (Roman times), or ‘Toledo’ (Middle Ages).
A couple of funny details for the wenches. First, the plot of ‘Bandolera’: Andalusia, 19 th century, a young English woman who pursues her dreams of becoming a writer and travels to Spain in search of adventure… Second, the series set during our Independence War against the French army (yes, the Peninsular War): ‘Curro Jiménez’ in the 1970s, it was ‘the’ TV series of my childhood.
You can find a list of the best historical series & mini-series in this Spanish poll – I’m sure you will easily recognize the majority of the titles. http://listas.20minutos.es/lista/series-de-epoca-360312/ North & South, Pride & Prejudice and Downton Abby are the favourites!
I think it’s a worldwide trend. Downton Abby and The Tudors are seen everywhere! Or The Vikings.
All the TV series you have already mentioned are seen in Spain as well. So I will mention a few of the ones that you’d probably haven’t seen yet, as they are Spanish (although I know some of them have been sold to foreign channels).
The most appreciated in the last few years:
‘Isabel’ which is set in the 15th century and it’s very Tudor-like, a lot of political intrigue and sex, about Isabella I of Castile and Ferdinand of Aragon.
‘Águila Roja’ (This is ‘Read Eagle’) cloak & dagger adventures in the 17th century.
‘Gran Hotel’ (Grand Hotel) a soap opera set in 1905 kind of ‘Spanish Edwardian times’.
Lots of TV series are set in the first half of the 20th century. Two of the most popular are ‘El tiempo entre costuras’ (The book that inspired this series was translated as ‘The Seamstress’) and ‘Amar en tiempos revueltos’ (I would translate it as ‘To Love in Troubled Times’).
Some of the series are different, because of the setting, for instance ‘Hispania’ (Roman times), or ‘Toledo’ (Middle Ages).
A couple of funny details for the wenches. First, the plot of ‘Bandolera’: Andalusia, 19 th century, a young English woman who pursues her dreams of becoming a writer and travels to Spain in search of adventure… Second, the series set during our Independence War against the French army (yes, the Peninsular War): ‘Curro Jiménez’ in the 1970s, it was ‘the’ TV series of my childhood.
You can find a list of the best historical series & mini-series in this Spanish poll – I’m sure you will easily recognize the majority of the titles. http://listas.20minutos.es/lista/series-de-epoca-360312/ North & South, Pride & Prejudice and Downton Abby are the favourites!
I think it’s a worldwide trend. Downton Abby and The Tudors are seen everywhere! Or The Vikings.
All the TV series you have already mentioned are seen in Spain as well. So I will mention a few of the ones that you’d probably haven’t seen yet, as they are Spanish (although I know some of them have been sold to foreign channels).
The most appreciated in the last few years:
‘Isabel’ which is set in the 15th century and it’s very Tudor-like, a lot of political intrigue and sex, about Isabella I of Castile and Ferdinand of Aragon.
‘Águila Roja’ (This is ‘Read Eagle’) cloak & dagger adventures in the 17th century.
‘Gran Hotel’ (Grand Hotel) a soap opera set in 1905 kind of ‘Spanish Edwardian times’.
Lots of TV series are set in the first half of the 20th century. Two of the most popular are ‘El tiempo entre costuras’ (The book that inspired this series was translated as ‘The Seamstress’) and ‘Amar en tiempos revueltos’ (I would translate it as ‘To Love in Troubled Times’).
Some of the series are different, because of the setting, for instance ‘Hispania’ (Roman times), or ‘Toledo’ (Middle Ages).
A couple of funny details for the wenches. First, the plot of ‘Bandolera’: Andalusia, 19 th century, a young English woman who pursues her dreams of becoming a writer and travels to Spain in search of adventure… Second, the series set during our Independence War against the French army (yes, the Peninsular War): ‘Curro Jiménez’ in the 1970s, it was ‘the’ TV series of my childhood.
You can find a list of the best historical series & mini-series in this Spanish poll – I’m sure you will easily recognize the majority of the titles. http://listas.20minutos.es/lista/series-de-epoca-360312/ North & South, Pride & Prejudice and Downton Abby are the favourites!
I was just going to wail that we Americans are so far behind the historical tv/movie trend that we’ll never catch up, but one just occurred to me. Nicola, have you heard of ‘Turn’? (a-la Turncoat). It’s an American produced spy program based on the Revolutionary war. I haven’t had a chance to watch it, but I love the time period and find it remarkably under-utilized in American programing considering its based on our very own history. The production values look great (costumes, etc) and the cinematography looks wonderful. Not sure if it’s as good as the reviews, but we’ll see if its a hit. I’m hopeful it will be, if only to encourage more American historical tv shows (that don’t have to do with the wild west and gunslingers!)
I was just going to wail that we Americans are so far behind the historical tv/movie trend that we’ll never catch up, but one just occurred to me. Nicola, have you heard of ‘Turn’? (a-la Turncoat). It’s an American produced spy program based on the Revolutionary war. I haven’t had a chance to watch it, but I love the time period and find it remarkably under-utilized in American programing considering its based on our very own history. The production values look great (costumes, etc) and the cinematography looks wonderful. Not sure if it’s as good as the reviews, but we’ll see if its a hit. I’m hopeful it will be, if only to encourage more American historical tv shows (that don’t have to do with the wild west and gunslingers!)
I was just going to wail that we Americans are so far behind the historical tv/movie trend that we’ll never catch up, but one just occurred to me. Nicola, have you heard of ‘Turn’? (a-la Turncoat). It’s an American produced spy program based on the Revolutionary war. I haven’t had a chance to watch it, but I love the time period and find it remarkably under-utilized in American programing considering its based on our very own history. The production values look great (costumes, etc) and the cinematography looks wonderful. Not sure if it’s as good as the reviews, but we’ll see if its a hit. I’m hopeful it will be, if only to encourage more American historical tv shows (that don’t have to do with the wild west and gunslingers!)
I was just going to wail that we Americans are so far behind the historical tv/movie trend that we’ll never catch up, but one just occurred to me. Nicola, have you heard of ‘Turn’? (a-la Turncoat). It’s an American produced spy program based on the Revolutionary war. I haven’t had a chance to watch it, but I love the time period and find it remarkably under-utilized in American programing considering its based on our very own history. The production values look great (costumes, etc) and the cinematography looks wonderful. Not sure if it’s as good as the reviews, but we’ll see if its a hit. I’m hopeful it will be, if only to encourage more American historical tv shows (that don’t have to do with the wild west and gunslingers!)
I was just going to wail that we Americans are so far behind the historical tv/movie trend that we’ll never catch up, but one just occurred to me. Nicola, have you heard of ‘Turn’? (a-la Turncoat). It’s an American produced spy program based on the Revolutionary war. I haven’t had a chance to watch it, but I love the time period and find it remarkably under-utilized in American programing considering its based on our very own history. The production values look great (costumes, etc) and the cinematography looks wonderful. Not sure if it’s as good as the reviews, but we’ll see if its a hit. I’m hopeful it will be, if only to encourage more American historical tv shows (that don’t have to do with the wild west and gunslingers!)
Oops! I see someone’s mentioned ‘Turn’ above me. Ah, well. Hopefully it’s worth watching!
Oops! I see someone’s mentioned ‘Turn’ above me. Ah, well. Hopefully it’s worth watching!
Oops! I see someone’s mentioned ‘Turn’ above me. Ah, well. Hopefully it’s worth watching!
Oops! I see someone’s mentioned ‘Turn’ above me. Ah, well. Hopefully it’s worth watching!
Oops! I see someone’s mentioned ‘Turn’ above me. Ah, well. Hopefully it’s worth watching!
Spain has such a rich history to draw on, Bona. It’s great that you get so much period drama. I wish we could see some it here!
Spain has such a rich history to draw on, Bona. It’s great that you get so much period drama. I wish we could see some it here!
Spain has such a rich history to draw on, Bona. It’s great that you get so much period drama. I wish we could see some it here!
Spain has such a rich history to draw on, Bona. It’s great that you get so much period drama. I wish we could see some it here!
Spain has such a rich history to draw on, Bona. It’s great that you get so much period drama. I wish we could see some it here!
I can’t wait to see it, Elle. It sounds great and with so many recommendations I’m very eager. Maybe I’ll be able to get it on the computer or possibly DVD.
I can’t wait to see it, Elle. It sounds great and with so many recommendations I’m very eager. Maybe I’ll be able to get it on the computer or possibly DVD.
I can’t wait to see it, Elle. It sounds great and with so many recommendations I’m very eager. Maybe I’ll be able to get it on the computer or possibly DVD.
I can’t wait to see it, Elle. It sounds great and with so many recommendations I’m very eager. Maybe I’ll be able to get it on the computer or possibly DVD.
I can’t wait to see it, Elle. It sounds great and with so many recommendations I’m very eager. Maybe I’ll be able to get it on the computer or possibly DVD.
I also loved the Duchess of Duke St, and many others. Has anyone mentioned the Uk North and South? A lot of people get it mixed up with the US series of the same name, but Richard Armitage as the northern mill owner is wonderful.
We’ve had a few Australian historical series, too, but the best one, RUSH, was filmed — crazily— in B&W for the first series, so I don’t think it ever survived to make the DVD scene. Mostly we get the Uk shows, which are generally wonderful.
I also loved the Duchess of Duke St, and many others. Has anyone mentioned the Uk North and South? A lot of people get it mixed up with the US series of the same name, but Richard Armitage as the northern mill owner is wonderful.
We’ve had a few Australian historical series, too, but the best one, RUSH, was filmed — crazily— in B&W for the first series, so I don’t think it ever survived to make the DVD scene. Mostly we get the Uk shows, which are generally wonderful.
I also loved the Duchess of Duke St, and many others. Has anyone mentioned the Uk North and South? A lot of people get it mixed up with the US series of the same name, but Richard Armitage as the northern mill owner is wonderful.
We’ve had a few Australian historical series, too, but the best one, RUSH, was filmed — crazily— in B&W for the first series, so I don’t think it ever survived to make the DVD scene. Mostly we get the Uk shows, which are generally wonderful.
I also loved the Duchess of Duke St, and many others. Has anyone mentioned the Uk North and South? A lot of people get it mixed up with the US series of the same name, but Richard Armitage as the northern mill owner is wonderful.
We’ve had a few Australian historical series, too, but the best one, RUSH, was filmed — crazily— in B&W for the first series, so I don’t think it ever survived to make the DVD scene. Mostly we get the Uk shows, which are generally wonderful.
I also loved the Duchess of Duke St, and many others. Has anyone mentioned the Uk North and South? A lot of people get it mixed up with the US series of the same name, but Richard Armitage as the northern mill owner is wonderful.
We’ve had a few Australian historical series, too, but the best one, RUSH, was filmed — crazily— in B&W for the first series, so I don’t think it ever survived to make the DVD scene. Mostly we get the Uk shows, which are generally wonderful.
I loved the old Poldark. I finally got the DVD’s of the two seasons a couple of years back. I don’t watch much TV or movies these days, so even though I was looking forward to seeing them again, it took me awhile. I’ll certainly look forward to a new set if it makes it over to the US, and hope I’m not disappointed in the casting! I bought all the Poldark books also — Winston Graham took the series beyond the books that were filmed the first time around to the next generation. I had bought the first six at the time of the broadcast of the series, and now it’s a little hard to get the books, but I persisted and bought them all. They are also fascinating for the more in-depth view of life in Cornwall at the time — and for some insight into how writing historical novels has changed!
I also was interested to read that Jamaica Inn is being filmed. One of my all-time favorite historical novels! Another TV series I loved from the same period as Poldark and Duchess of Duke Street was Flambards — set in the Edwardian through the First World War. (Have the DVDs of that show also!)
And one that I’ve never been able to buy DVDs viewable in the states that I also loved was A Horseman Riding by, from a series by R.E. Delderfield.
Thanks for the walk through Memory Lane and the preview of things to come!
I loved the old Poldark. I finally got the DVD’s of the two seasons a couple of years back. I don’t watch much TV or movies these days, so even though I was looking forward to seeing them again, it took me awhile. I’ll certainly look forward to a new set if it makes it over to the US, and hope I’m not disappointed in the casting! I bought all the Poldark books also — Winston Graham took the series beyond the books that were filmed the first time around to the next generation. I had bought the first six at the time of the broadcast of the series, and now it’s a little hard to get the books, but I persisted and bought them all. They are also fascinating for the more in-depth view of life in Cornwall at the time — and for some insight into how writing historical novels has changed!
I also was interested to read that Jamaica Inn is being filmed. One of my all-time favorite historical novels! Another TV series I loved from the same period as Poldark and Duchess of Duke Street was Flambards — set in the Edwardian through the First World War. (Have the DVDs of that show also!)
And one that I’ve never been able to buy DVDs viewable in the states that I also loved was A Horseman Riding by, from a series by R.E. Delderfield.
Thanks for the walk through Memory Lane and the preview of things to come!
I loved the old Poldark. I finally got the DVD’s of the two seasons a couple of years back. I don’t watch much TV or movies these days, so even though I was looking forward to seeing them again, it took me awhile. I’ll certainly look forward to a new set if it makes it over to the US, and hope I’m not disappointed in the casting! I bought all the Poldark books also — Winston Graham took the series beyond the books that were filmed the first time around to the next generation. I had bought the first six at the time of the broadcast of the series, and now it’s a little hard to get the books, but I persisted and bought them all. They are also fascinating for the more in-depth view of life in Cornwall at the time — and for some insight into how writing historical novels has changed!
I also was interested to read that Jamaica Inn is being filmed. One of my all-time favorite historical novels! Another TV series I loved from the same period as Poldark and Duchess of Duke Street was Flambards — set in the Edwardian through the First World War. (Have the DVDs of that show also!)
And one that I’ve never been able to buy DVDs viewable in the states that I also loved was A Horseman Riding by, from a series by R.E. Delderfield.
Thanks for the walk through Memory Lane and the preview of things to come!
I loved the old Poldark. I finally got the DVD’s of the two seasons a couple of years back. I don’t watch much TV or movies these days, so even though I was looking forward to seeing them again, it took me awhile. I’ll certainly look forward to a new set if it makes it over to the US, and hope I’m not disappointed in the casting! I bought all the Poldark books also — Winston Graham took the series beyond the books that were filmed the first time around to the next generation. I had bought the first six at the time of the broadcast of the series, and now it’s a little hard to get the books, but I persisted and bought them all. They are also fascinating for the more in-depth view of life in Cornwall at the time — and for some insight into how writing historical novels has changed!
I also was interested to read that Jamaica Inn is being filmed. One of my all-time favorite historical novels! Another TV series I loved from the same period as Poldark and Duchess of Duke Street was Flambards — set in the Edwardian through the First World War. (Have the DVDs of that show also!)
And one that I’ve never been able to buy DVDs viewable in the states that I also loved was A Horseman Riding by, from a series by R.E. Delderfield.
Thanks for the walk through Memory Lane and the preview of things to come!
I loved the old Poldark. I finally got the DVD’s of the two seasons a couple of years back. I don’t watch much TV or movies these days, so even though I was looking forward to seeing them again, it took me awhile. I’ll certainly look forward to a new set if it makes it over to the US, and hope I’m not disappointed in the casting! I bought all the Poldark books also — Winston Graham took the series beyond the books that were filmed the first time around to the next generation. I had bought the first six at the time of the broadcast of the series, and now it’s a little hard to get the books, but I persisted and bought them all. They are also fascinating for the more in-depth view of life in Cornwall at the time — and for some insight into how writing historical novels has changed!
I also was interested to read that Jamaica Inn is being filmed. One of my all-time favorite historical novels! Another TV series I loved from the same period as Poldark and Duchess of Duke Street was Flambards — set in the Edwardian through the First World War. (Have the DVDs of that show also!)
And one that I’ve never been able to buy DVDs viewable in the states that I also loved was A Horseman Riding by, from a series by R.E. Delderfield.
Thanks for the walk through Memory Lane and the preview of things to come!
I loved North and South and Richard Armitage was fabulous. I wish we had seen Rush – and that we had more opportunity to see costume dramas from other countries.
I loved North and South and Richard Armitage was fabulous. I wish we had seen Rush – and that we had more opportunity to see costume dramas from other countries.
I loved North and South and Richard Armitage was fabulous. I wish we had seen Rush – and that we had more opportunity to see costume dramas from other countries.
I loved North and South and Richard Armitage was fabulous. I wish we had seen Rush – and that we had more opportunity to see costume dramas from other countries.
I loved North and South and Richard Armitage was fabulous. I wish we had seen Rush – and that we had more opportunity to see costume dramas from other countries.
Hi Judith! I’d forgotten all about Flambards! I was completely addicted to it and had the books as well as watching the TV series. Wonderful!
Hi Judith! I’d forgotten all about Flambards! I was completely addicted to it and had the books as well as watching the TV series. Wonderful!
Hi Judith! I’d forgotten all about Flambards! I was completely addicted to it and had the books as well as watching the TV series. Wonderful!
Hi Judith! I’d forgotten all about Flambards! I was completely addicted to it and had the books as well as watching the TV series. Wonderful!
Hi Judith! I’d forgotten all about Flambards! I was completely addicted to it and had the books as well as watching the TV series. Wonderful!