Timeless Tales: Five of the Best British Costume Dramas of the 2020s
Last updated: August 31, 2024
British costume dramas have long been a beloved genre worldwide, offering a window into the past with their intricate costumes, lush settings, and compelling stories. In the 2020s, this genre has provided us with new, captivating stories. From grandiose historical events to intimate, character-driven tales, here’s a look at some of the finest British costume dramas from the past few years.
Bridgerton (2020–present)
Kicking off this list is Netflix's crowd pleaser Bridgerton, a series that has taken the world by storm since its debut in 2020. Set in an alternative Regency-era London, Bridgertonoffers a modern twist on the traditional period drama. With its vibrant costumes, diverse cast, and contemporary soundtrack (classically performed), the show follows the lives of the wealthy Bridgerton family as they navigate love, scandal, and societal expectations.
Bridgerton has been praised for its entertainment value and for pushing the boundaries of representation in period dramas.
The Dig (2021)
The Dig, released in 2021, is a film that beautifully captures the quiet drama of a significant historical event. Set on the eve of World War II, it is based on the true story of the Sutton Hoo excavation, one of British history's most important archaeological finds.
The film stars Carey Mulligan as Edith Pretty, the landowner who hires amateur archaeologist Basil Brown, played by Ralph Fiennes, to uncover an ancient burial site. With its subdued yet evocative storytelling, The Dig masterfully transports the viewers to a different time.
The Wonder (2022)
Sebastián Lelio’s The Wonder, released in 2022, is a historical drama based on Emma Donoghue’s novel of the same name. The story is set in 19th-century Ireland and stars Florence Pugh as a nurse tasked with observing a young girl who appears to survive without food.
The film is a psychological exploration of faith, observation, and the human condition, with Pugh delivering a nuanced performance.
The Pursuit of Love (2021)
Based on Nancy Mitford’s 1945 novel, The Pursuit of Love is a three-part series starring Lily James and Emily Beecham that explores the lives of two cousins during the interwar period.
The series is a vibrant portrayal of romance, friendship, and the quest for personal freedom, all set against the backdrop of the changing social landscape of the 1930s and 1940s.
SAS: Rogue Heroes (2022–present)
SAS: Rogue Heroes is a must-watch for those who enjoy their period dramas with a dose of action. This series tells the true story of the formation of the Special Air Service (SAS) during World War II.
With its gritty, fast-paced narrative and strong performances, SAS: Rogue Heroes(IMDb) is a thrilling depiction of one of history's most daring military units.
The 2020s have proven to be a prosperous period for British costume dramas, with both television series and films offering fresh takes on historical storytelling. Whether you’re in the mood for romance, mystery, or action, there’s something in this latest crop of period pieces to suit every taste.
