In the bustling landscape of period dramas, a "gorgeous" series is capturing attention and drawing comparisons to Netflix's global phenomenon, Bridgerton. This compelling alternative, available to stream for free, is winning over audiences with its intricate storytelling and classical charm.
A Hidden Gem Inspired by Literary History
The series in question is Sanditon, with all episodes accessible via ITVX. It chronicles the journey of Charlotte Heywood as she relocates to the tranquil fishing village of Sanditon, seeking a new beginning. The village itself is undergoing a transformation, aspiring to become a fashionable seaside resort.
Charlotte quickly becomes entangled in the concealed secrets and lofty ambitions of the local inhabitants. Her life takes an unexpected turn upon meeting Sidney, a charismatic gentleman with grand visions for Sanditon's future.
Rooted in Jane Austen's Final, Unfinished Work
This television adaptation is grounded in what was Jane Austen's ultimate literary endeavour before her passing. Although the manuscript saw publication in 1925 under the title 'A Fragment of a Novel', it remained incomplete. Austen was compelled to cease work on the project due to deteriorating health.
Numerous authors have endeavoured to complete or extend the novel, striving to emulate Austen's distinctive style. This includes the television version, which originally aired from 2019 to 2023.
Creative Mastery Behind the Scenes
The adaptation was crafted by the Emmy and BAFTA award-winning screenwriter Andrew Davies. Davies boasts an impressive portfolio, having written the original House of Cards in 1990, the celebrated 1995 adaptation of Pride and Prejudice featuring Colin Firth, and the screenplay for Bridget Jones's Diary. His other notable period dramas include Mr Selfridge and Bleak House.
The cast of Sanditon features prominent talents such as The Gentlemen star Theo James and actor Kris Marshall from Beyond Paradise. The series holds a commendable 82% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, merely one percentage point below Bridgerton's 83%. Yet, many enthusiasts contend that Sanditon offers a superior viewing experience.
Audience Acclaim and Fervent Debates
Online forums are alive with discussions comparing the two dramas. One admirer praised it as a "gorgeous show", while another shared on IMDb: "Better than Bridgerton. This series is better written, more real and way more credible than Bridgerton. It is what these type of shows should be, a reimagination of the period without going overboard and with enough drama not to be dull."
A member of a Bridgerton Facebook fan group urged: "If you haven’t watched Sanditon yet, you need to!! It’s very similar to Bridgerton and loosely based on the book by Jane Austen. It is unfinished so they finished it here."
Another viewer expressed: "I personally enjoyed Sanditon more than Bridgerton because it felt less modern to me, despite both lacking certain major points of historical accuracy. I was also taken aback by the adult explicit scenes in Bridgerton."
They elaborated: "I enjoyed the romance aspects of each, but was more invested in the romantic obstacles Charlotte faces more so than Daphne’s, but both characters are surprisingly similar in many ways. I think it depends on what aspects of period pieces you enjoy, and the disposition of the characters you prefer. Both are worth the watch."
One enthusiast remarked: "Love Sanditon! A beautiful series. The romantic leads have off the chart chemistry. The push pull is quintessential Austenesque."
The Verdict: A Celebration of Both Series
A prevailing opinion among fans is that both dramas offer unique pleasures and deserve appreciation. As one supporter insightfully noted: "The answer is to watch both! Bridgerton, season 1 was romantic, sexy and fun. Sanditon, Season 1 absolutely killed me. I think I actually stopped breathing during the last episode. Each show has its charms, but Sanditon was definitely my favourite of the two."
Sanditon is currently available for streaming on ITVX, inviting viewers to delve into its captivating world of romance, ambition, and timeless narrative craftsmanship.
