By Penelope Misceo
Executive Arts Editor
Lady Whistledown gives Gossip Girl a run for her money in Netflix’s latest period drama series, “Bridgerton.”
“Bridgerton” is a lovely drama that encompasses how well a period piece can utilize modernity to entertain its audience. The series’ enthralling plot and seasoned style will leave its viewers waiting fervently for a second season.
Created by Chris van Dusen, “Bridgerton” is based on Julia Quinn’s novel of the same name. The series stars Phoebe Dynevor as Daphne Bridgerton and Regé-Jean Page as Simon Bassett. Additional narration is seen from the series’ gossip writer, Lady Whistledown, voiced by Julie Andrews.
Following the wealthy and influential Bridgerton family, the series follows Daphne Bridgerton as she navigates love, marriage and femininity in the complicated and sometimes trying Regancy-era England. “Bridgerton” is accompanied with narration by Lady Whistledown, an anonymous gossip writer who makes speculations on society’s most talked-about families in the city of London.
“Bridgerton” utilizes an endless list of assets that assist its glorious entertainment value, but the most prominent is its divergent plot. The show follows several plotlines at once and still manages to capture its viewers’ attention in each one. The tried-and-true romantic tropes assorted with a modern flare make for an unwaveringly fascinating plot.
An additionally wondrous aspect of the series is its costumes. The costume designer of “Bridgerton,” Ellen Mirojnick, creates a stunning sense of simultaneous opulence and demureness with each character’s ensembles that are certainly representative of their personalities. The gowns, in particular, are glamorously posh and slightly reminiscent of nuanced modernity that adds a more visually pleasing element to the film.
Undoubtedly, the series holds some of its charm due to its flawed but likeable characters, which is aided by the cast’s seasoned acting. Daphne (Phoebe Dynevor), the series’ main character and the eldest Bridgerton daughter, proves herself to be a kind and personable character while still offering the audience a sense of her struggles and flaws. Possibly most enthralling is the development of her relationship with Simon Bassett (Regé-Jean Page), who viewers also get to experience the personal development and character nuances of. These qualities are primarily thanks to the expert acting and undeniable chemistry from Dynevor and Page, who create believable and instinctually human characters that the audience can form a strong connection with.
A lovely gleam of amusement in “Bridgerton” also comes from its flares of modernity. This is displayed in part through music, which includes instrumental versions of current pop hits including “Thank U, Next,” by Ariana Grande, and “The Bad Guy,” by Billie Eilish. The series also dedicates itself to including refreshing and much-needed diversity that period pieces sometimes lack.
An enchanting journey of love and gossip, “Bridgerton” has its audience begging for more until the very last episode. With subtle modernity, lovely costumes and an enthralling plot, the show is sure to appeal to fans of period pieces and many dramas alike.
Released to platforms on Dec. 25, “Bridgerton” is rated TV-MA and is available for streaming on Netflix.
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