When we first saw the appearance of Bridgerton on Netflix, we wondered if it would be worth the watch. From the cover alone, you can tell that it is a period drama – and, if we can be honest, we’re unbelievably picky when it comes to those. But then, when we discovered that it is Shonda Rhimes’ first scripted show for Netflix, we just had to stream it. But was it worth it? Read on to find out.
While it is based on the series of novels by Julia Quinn, it’s certainly different from the shows in Rhimes’ TV empire, at least as far as the setting is concerned, and yet, it does overall fall under the Shondaland oeuvre. From the first episode, we found ourselves intrigued and invested in the relationships of the characters, and speculating about who Lady Whistedown could be (we were right, by the way).
If you love a good scandal, you’ll fall in love with Bridgerton – that is what the show is about for most part. The series revolves all around one season of ladies coming into society to try to find husbands, not quite different from what arranged marriages would have been like back in that time, and surprisingly, you’ll find yourself relating it to the arranged marriage system in Pakistan. Granted, we don’t have cotillions, but being paraded around on the rishta market is all the same.
There is drama, sex, and a whole lot of gossip (yay!). Being serial binge watchers, we weren’t surprised by how quickly we finished the show, but were pleasantly surprised by how much we enjoyed it. While things like this are not normally our cup of tea but this was too juicy not to finish.
If you’re wondering how this show is similar to other productions by Shonda Rhimes – it is and isn’t at the same time. You could identify it a little with Downton Abbey, with the posh accents (but a whole lot of fast talking and sexual tension) and maybe even a little of what Grey’s Anatomy would have been like had it been set in the Regency era (1811-1820).
But if you’re expecting this period drama to contain a deep meaning – it really doesn’t. But, it will offer you an escape from the busy lives of today. So if you’re looking for a good escape, this show offers just that. Belonging to the world of fashion, we have the eye to appreciate the gorgeous costumes and sets. One of our favorite things about Bridgerton is just – looking at it. The costuming is fantastic. Not just the gorgeous dresses, but the mens’ outfits as well. Besides that and the actors of course, the décor in the homes, the gardens, and just well, everything, was stunning. It is clear there must have been quite the budget for this show because nothing is out of place.
With scandal, sex scenes and a lot of simmering sexual tension, this show is definitely NOT for children. Also, there are moments of humour here and there, but the show holds a serious tone overall. So here’s our verdict: STREAM IT. Bridgerton is addictive, colourful, sexy, and filled with scandal and drama, and let’s be honest, who doesn’t love that!