Bridgerton: A Sizzling Period Drama Oozing With Opulence

"It’s fascinating to me that no one has really done it before. Romance novels really lend themselves to the TV genre. They’re visual; they’re well-paced; they have great plots.”

- Shonda Rhimes, Producer of Bridgerton

Now unless you've been hiding under a rock these past few weeks, I'm sure you have heard of Netflix's latest period drama, Bridgerton. Think Pride and Prejudice (but with a little bit of spice), mixed with Gossip Girl. It's brilliantly binge-worthy, steamy as hell and the perfect escape from the misery that is lockdown. However, the plot isn't the only reason you should watch it, as I explain below.

The Characters

Now I could easily write a 10-page essay on the characters of this show, but instead, I'll just pick my three favourites. In no particular order...

1. The Duke of Hastings

Those of you who follow me on Twitter have undoubtedly seen me thirst hard over the Duke of Hastings. Seriously, hand me some water! Played by Regé-Jean Page, the Duke is broody, mysterious, yet inherently broken. He is consumed by pride, rage and hatred for his neglectful father, definitely giving off more Heathcliff than Mr Darcy vibes from the offset. This paves the way wonderfully for a character redemption arc which sees him coming to terms with his fractured state so that he can finally find true happiness with Daphne, his love interest in the show. Page definitely deserves all the hype he's currently receiving and he's even been rumoured to be the next bond! You wouldn't catch me complaining.

2. Eloise Bridgerton

In my opinion, the most underrated character on the show. She's quick-witted, curious and stubborn in the best way possible. Determined not to conform to social conventions and gender-norms, Eloise is the true hero of the show and definitely someone who we should all take inspiration from. She constantly questions traditions, wishing to forge her own path in life, instead of letting herself be defined by who she's married to. Not to mention, she is the queen of clap-backs. Eloise is a true breath of fresh air amidst all the lovey-dovey-ness of the show.

3. Penelope Featherington

With a name like this, you've got to be someone worthy of writing about. Much like myself, she is a hopeless romantic, emphasis on the hopeless part in my case. She's best friends with Eloise so already ranks pretty highly in my eyes just for that reason. Penelope is shy, kind, and often overlooked, which makes the reveal in the final episode all the more shocking and in some ways heartbreaking. At the risk of giving too much away, I'll stop right there.

The Casting

Racial Diversity

While the show may have received some criticism for its diverse casting, I have nothing but praise for it. As did over 63 million households apparently. The show's creator, Chris Van Dusen, made it clear that he did not want a story informed solely by the 19th century, as he felt this would make the show feel too uptight. It was with this in mind that he chose a racially diverse cast, reflective of today's society. The Duke himself is played by a black actor but perhaps more notably, as is the queen, played by Golda Rosheuvel. To fans of Shonda Rhimes, the producer of the show, this should come as no surprise as cast diversity is one of her signature moves. Massive respect to anyone involved in the casting for this show, I hope it paves the way for others to do the same.

The Sizzling Chemistry

While we're on the topic of incredible casting, can we just talk about the chemistry between The Duke and Daphne?? OFF THE CHARTS, MATE! Give me some of that witty repartee and those longing glances any day of the week. There have even been rumours circulating that the two are dating in real life, and while these remain just rumours, it certainly stands as a testament to their chemistry.

The Aesthetic

The Costumes

With great period dramas, come great wardrobes. Now I am no fashionista but there is no denying that whoever dressed the cast in Bridgerton needs a raise! The first six episodes alone required more than 350 cut costumes for the female characters. That's enough to give any modiste a mental breakdown. The dresses aren't just dresses, they're an extension of the characters themselves, what they represent and their struggle to come to terms with their identities. For example, as costume designer, Ellen Mirojnick said, "With the Bridgertons, it was about the Bridgerton blue [...] The Bridgertons are sublime, clean, classic and beautiful." Whereas with the Featheringtons, they used bold prints and "acid colours – acid green, acid yellow, acid orange." Rather fitting if you ask me.

The Set

If you're not one for fancy ball gowns, then perhaps aesthetically pleasing set designs are your thing. Bridgerton really is a feast for the eyes. It's opulent, grandiose and just downright dreamy. British Production Designer, Will Hughes-Jones told Architectural Digest that reference points for him were 1975’s Barry Lyndon and the 2006 Sofia Coppola production of Marie Antoinette. Though the exterior shots were filmed on location, much of the interior filming took place on a soundstage, for which no less than 250 pieces of set design were created. Now that's impressive. They represent the styles of the period, from "soft blue medallion patterned fabric and swag and jabot draperies to marquetry tables and chairs with ebonized wood." I could go on for days but just take a look at the above picture and see for yourself. Or better yet, watch the show!

In conclusion...

Bridgerton has all the elements of a classic period piece; exquisite gowns, handsome dukes and lavish balls. Yet, it still manages to feel fresh and non-formulaic. Brilliantly diverse casting decisions combined with jaw-dropping set designs and costumes are to thank for this. Oh and a special mention to whoever decided to fill the show with classical covers of modern pop songs. I will only ever be listening to Ariana Grande's 'Thank u, next' if it's played by a classical string quartet. To put it bluntly, there's a reason it's Netflix's fifth most-watched original TV show. Just don't watch episode 6 with your parents!!