I do not usually review streaming series because movies are more my thing, but for Bridgerton I will make an exception. I feel particularly inspired to talk about it considering I not only read the entire book series, but I also read everything ever written by historical romance author Julia Quinn. If you question my impartiality, your concerns are valid. I feel pretty darn invested.
The first book in the Bridgerton collection, The Duke & I, serves as the basis for the series. The family includes Violet Bridgerton (Ruth Gemmell) and her eight children named in alphabetical order. You have Anthony (Jonathan Bailey), Benedict (Luke Thompson), Colin (Luke Newton), Daphne (Phoebe Dynevor), Eloise (Claudia Jessie), Francesca (Ruby Stokes), Gregory (Will Tilston), and Hyacinth (Florence Hunt) all making an appearance. Daphne features in the main plotline, but each sibling down to Eloise gets a story arc.
Daphne enters the London season hoping for a love match like the one had by her parents. Based on her initial success, this possibility seems entirely likely. Unfortunately, her brother Anthony rejects all of her potential suitors, leading mysterious society columnist Lady Whistledown (voice of Julie Andrews) to question Daphne’s suitability. Simon (Regé-Jean Page), The Duke of Hastings and Anthony’s best friend, comes to Daphne’s rescue. Beset by matchmaking mamas and with no interest in marriage for himself, a fake flirtation will simultaneously elevate Daphne’s status in the hunt for a husband while helping Simon avoid all of the ladies vying for his attention. Of course the pretend flirtation does not stay pretend forever. Sparks fly, and soon Daphne and Simon are in the middle of a scandal, creating a whole new series of complications.
We are also introduced to the Featherington clan, with Phillipa (Harriet Cains), Prudence (Bessie Carter), and Penelope (Nicola Coughlan) all participating in the season while costumed in a very garish collection of gowns selected by their overbearing mother Portia (Nicola Coughlan). The arrival of their cousin Marina (Ruby Barker) stirs up trouble, first because she attracts all of the male attention, then because evidence of a past romance rears up to potentially destroy them all.
If you are looking for historical accuracy, just walk away now. Bridgerton is decidedly not for you. Looking for witty dialogue, some fabulous costumes, and some really sexy eye candy? Welcome aboard! When I say sexy eye candy, I mean it to the point of it almost being too much. Do not watch this with your parents or your kids in the room. Despite being set in a repressive era, you will find nothing repressed about the series.
Changes were made between the book and the screen, with the most obvious being the color-conscious casting. A diverse group of actors was used, and they go so far as to acknowledge this in one of the scenes. They also made fairly substantial changes to Daphne and Simon’s story in the last two episodes. I do not know that I see the point for the changes, but I also am not bothered by them. As any fan of historical romance will tell you, the happily ever after is the most important element, and that, at least, you still get.
I love the aesthetics of Bridgerton. The sets, the costume, Queen Charlotte’s (Golda Rosheuvel) hair…all of it was beautiful. The historicization of modern pop songs used throughout created the perfect modern overlay to this historically inaccurate series. The storylines were clever and compelling, with tons of romantic drama and touches of comedy sprinkled throughout. The sex scenes might have been a bit too much, but if they are not for you that is why fast forward was invented. If they are for you? You have rewind.
You can stream Bridgerton now on Netflix.
If you enjoyed Bridgerton, check out my book recommendations!
About Bridgerton
The eight close-knit siblings of the Bridgerton family look for love and happiness in London high society. Inspired by Julia Quinn’s bestselling novels.