Sunday 4 May 2014

Period Dramas: my favourite films and television series

I love a good period drama. Nothing quite like snuggling down on a cold night with a bowl of popcorn, a copious amount of chocolate and a cat or two for some good ol' period drama time. This post is just a little list of my favourite period films and television series, you've all probably watched or heard of these by now, but maybe it's time to get them back out for your next movie night?

Films:
Pride and Prejudice (2005)
If you haven't heard the name Pride and Prejudice before now I will have to assume that you've been living under a rock (I'm joking.. but seriously?). Pride and Prejudice is often considered the creme de' lá creme of period dramas. Set in the beginning of the early nineteenth century Pride and Prejudice is based upon the novel by Jane Austen and directed by Joe Wright. This film focuses on the Elizabeth Bennet (Keira Knightley) and how her and her family deal with issues of marriage, romance, misconceptions and morality. A must watch if you want to get into your period dramas! 

Marie Antoinette (2006)
I love this film so much. I know it's not exactly and accurate depiction of Marie Antoinette, but that will not stop my love for this film. Directed by the whimsical Sofia Coppola this film stars the adorable Kirsten Dunst as none other than Marie Antoinette and loosely follows the story of her life as Queen, in the years leading up to the French revolution. Ensure gal pals and cake are in easy reach when you watch this film, the cakes and other delicate pastries will have you drooling with envy... along with the incredible set designs and flawless gorgeous costumes!

Atonement (2007)
Oh look, another film directed by Joe Wright starring the stunning Keira Knightly (the third being Anna Karenina, another period drama you might want to check out?) and James McAvoy (Side note: who else is really getting seriously excited for X:MEN Days of Future Past!? I know I am!). Atonement is a romance drama film, so if you're not into romance maybe you should skip this one (along with Pride and Prejudice). Briony Tallis (Saoirse Ronan) is a thirteen year old aspiring novelist caught up in the complicated relationship between her elder sister Cecillia and Robbie Turner. A film about romance, war, crime and it's consequences, this is another staple in the period drama category.

Becoming Jane (2007)
We wouldn't have Mr. Darcy from Pride and Prejudice to cry over if it wasn't for Jane Austen. Becoming Jane is a film based on the life of Jane Austen (portrayed by the beautiful Anna Hathaway) and her early life and journey to becoming one of the worlds most renowned writers. We learn of her complicated relationship with Thomas Langlois Lefroy (portrayed by James McAvoy- is it just me or do James and Keira Knightly constantly make appearances in period dramas?) and what influences her to begin her fulfilling career. A perfect mix of romance and inspirational girl power this film is not one to miss.

Television:
Parades End (2012)
If you're watching this series please have a box of tissues or two at the ready. Parades End is a miniseries (only five episodes) based on the novels by Ford Maddox Ford. Christopher Tietjens (portrayed by none other than Benedict Cumberbatch, though I promise, that is not why I love this series so much- though it is a contributing factor) is an old fashioned man married to the bitter Sylvia (portrayed by Rebecca Hall who then went on to be cast in Iron Man 3 and Transcendence alongside Johnny Depp!). Typically enough, Christopher's world is turned around when he stumbles upon the young Valentine Wannop (portrayed by Australia's own Adelaide Clemens), a young suffragette during the beginnings of World War 1. I feel as though this short description does not give Parades End the love that it deserves, but I wouldn't want to spoilt anything for you, you'll just have to go and watch this short master piece for yourself!

Downton Abbey (2010 - )
I couldn't not have Downton Abbey on this list. I'm ashamed to say that I'm quite late to join the Downton Abbey following- as I only started watching from the very beginning at the start of this year, but I'm so glad that I made that wise decision! With four seasons to get emotionally invested in it's no surprise so many people have gotten obsessed with this series. The beautiful landscape of Yorkshire and the incredible architecture of Downton Abbey will have you longing to move to the English countryside. I promise you won't get bored with this series and it really is as addictive and emotionally captivating as everyone says!

So are you ready for a movie night or what? What's your favorite period drama?- film or other wise! I would love to hear some recommendations!

Thank you for reading, love Maddie xoxo

6 comments:

  1. And so, the great debate about Pride and Prejudice the movie v Pride and Prejudice the series rages on. I can't lie; Colin Firth IS Mr Darcy.

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    1. And the debate continues... Thank you for the comment Ellie! x

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  2. Parades End is wonderful! Out of curiosity (sorry to pry, I understand everything that has happened) would you girls ever make your Instagram's public again? I used to follow you both (your pictures were so lovely!!) on my personal Instagram, but I had a problem, and everyone was un-followed .... I don't mean to pry, sorry xx

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    1. Hey anonymous! I'm not sure if you'll get this as I've left the reply till a little late buuut, I won't be. Unfortunately too many people have taken my photos to create false/creepy accounts and I really don't like it (Now that I'm private at least 500 accounts have unfollowed me- I think it's because I don't do shoutouts/am boring/they were spam accounts). You can still follow me though! I usually let most people follow me but if they have random photos from the internet, no photos of themselves (just to make sure you are who you say you are), a private account that has no followers/photos/followings I won't let them follow me! Sorry about this.

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    2. Thank-you, I understand that the internet is a scary place! I did un-private my personal instagram, but I was denied. No worries though, I love reading what you girls post up here, you are both wonderful at writing! x

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    3. Sorry about this anonymous! Maybe your instagram looked a little dodgy for me! So sorry. x

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