As the highly anticipated fourth season of Bridgerton makes its debut on Netflix this week, devoted fans of the period drama are being encouraged to explore a provocative and timely political thriller featuring one of the show's original stars. The film, titled Anniversary, stars Phoebe Dynevor – who memorably portrayed Daphne Bridgerton in the first two seasons – and arrives on the streaming platform this weekend, promising intense drama and stark social commentary.
A Star-Studded Cast in a Tense Family Drama
Originally released in cinemas during October of last year, Anniversary is an underrated dark satire that, despite its impressive ensemble cast, unfortunately struggled to find a wide audience at the box office. Alongside Dynevor, the film features a remarkable array of Hollywood talent including Diane Lane, Kyle Chandler, Madeline Brewer, Zoey Deutch, Mckenna Grace, Daryl McCormack, Sky Yang, and Dylan O'Brien.
The plot centres around an affluent American family whose tensions reach boiling point during a celebration of the parents' 25th wedding anniversary. Dylan O'Brien plays Josh, a struggling novelist who brings his new fiancée Liz, portrayed by Phoebe Dynevor, to the family gathering. Ellen, played by Diane Lane as a successful academic, soon recognises Liz as a former student she expelled from her class years earlier due to the young woman's totalitarian ideology.
Political Tensions Threaten to Tear Family Apart
Liz has re-emerged as a leading figure in a radical new movement known as The Change, whose ideology threatens not only the stability of the Taylor family but also poses broader dangers to American society. This timely exploration of political extremism and family conflict has been described by early viewers as both gripping and terrifying in its implications.
Although Anniversary failed to make a significant impact during its theatrical run several months ago, the film is now poised to find a passionate and appreciative audience when it begins streaming on Netflix from Sunday, 1st February. Early reviews from cinema-goers have been overwhelmingly positive, with many describing it as one of the most important and frightening films of recent years.
Rave Reviews from Early Viewers
Fans who managed to catch Anniversary during its limited cinema release have been effusive in their praise. One IMDb user declared it "the single most scary film of 2025," while another pleaded with potential viewers: "Please give this film an audience, you will not regret it."
Several reviews have highlighted the exceptional performances, particularly from Diane Lane, with one viewer noting: "Diane Lane has the capability to convey perfectly every expression required in such a movie with just her face. The movie starts as a slow burner but the tension gradually builds until it's almost 'suffocating'."
Another fan described the film as "a horrific realisation of what will happen if people don't stand up for themselves and their beliefs," while yet another called it "The Most Important Film Of The Year." The consensus among early viewers suggests that Anniversary delivers both powerful entertainment and serious social commentary.
Perfect Counterpoint to Bridgerton's Romance
For viewers who have already binge-watched the first four episodes of Bridgerton's latest season – which follows second son Benedict's love story – Anniversary offers a dramatic change of pace. Where Bridgerton provides romantic escapism in Regency-era London, this contemporary thriller delivers tense, thought-provoking drama that explores modern political anxieties.
The film's arrival on Netflix coincides with promotional offers from Sky, which is currently providing free Netflix subscriptions with its Sky Stream TV bundles. This includes the £15 Essential TV plan that allows customers to watch both live and on-demand content without requiring a satellite dish or aerial.
As one final reviewer perfectly summarised: "ANNIVERSARY is truly one of the best films I've seen in ages. It has everything... power, intensity, humour, terrific performances, and a mega-thought-provoking premise." For Bridgerton fans looking to expand their viewing beyond the ton's romantic intrigues, this controversial thriller represents an compelling alternative that's already generating significant buzz among those who have experienced its powerful narrative.
