Favorite Period Dramas

Today, I’m going to take a break from my usual writing posts and blog about another one of my passions – period British dramas. These dramas have provided me many hours of inspiration for several of my novels, plus many ideas for future works. They are also great companions to classic literature as many of these are based on famous novels. So without further ado, here are five of my all-time favorite period dramas with a few sentence synopses for each. Enjoy!

1) Pride and Prejudice 1995 – This is a given for many period drama fans. Actually, Pride and Prejudice was one of the first period dramas I watched, and it was what really sparked my interest in the Regency Era, which led to my writing three novels set in that era. I LOVED this movie and my friends and I are always sprinkling our conversations with such phrases as, “I believe we must have some conversation, Mr. Darcy – a very little will suffice” or “This is all extremely vexing. I am quite put out!” Any of you know who said these?

2) Bleak House 2005– If I had to pick one period drama that was my absolute favorite, this would certainly be in the running. Many great characters, scenes, and lines!! The only bad thing about this drama is once you start watching it, you’ll never want to stop! Screenwriter Andrew Davies is at his best here, with a drama that will make you laugh and cry. There are many of Charles Dickens’ characters that are memorable and Bleak House is full of them.

3) Jane Eyre 1983– There are over twenty versions of Jane Eyre, and I have seen three of them. To date, I have greatly enjoyed the 2011 version starring Michael Fassbender, and the 2006 version starring Ruth Wilson. But my all-time favorite has been the 1983 version with Timothy Dalton and Zelah Clarke. Although it has the feel of a really old BBC production (which in fact it is) the acting is amazing and the dialog is taken almost word for word from Bronte’s novel. And of course after watching it, I immediately decided to have Timothy Dalton “play” my next hero.

4) Sense and Sensibility 1995 – Another wonderful Austen adaptation, this is a great version of “Sense and Sensibility.” With a wonderful cast, lovely scenery, and clever dialog this version of “Sense and Sensibility” is one I return to again and again. Although slightly older than Austen’s description of Elinor Dashwood, Emma Thompson sparkles as the older sister “sense”, and the lovely Kate Winslet captures young Marianne Dashwood “sensibility” perfectly. A lighthearted adventure through Jane Austen’s first novel, it has a permanent place on my keeper shelf!

5)Becoming Jane 2007 – Let’s face it, authors love watching movies about other authors. And if the author is Jane Austen, it’s even better. Perhaps not altogether historically accurate, in my opinion, this movie captures perfectly the life and times of one of literature’s most beloved authors. Starring James McAvoy and Anne Hathaway this movie is a true gem!

These are only several of the many great dramas that are out there, but these five are a few of my favorite. Be inspired, intrigued, and enjoy the British accents in these five period dramas!

Happy Writing,

Amanda

Your Turn – What are some of your favorite period dramas? I read and enjoy each and every comment!

COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS- WEEK 4

This week in our Countdown to Christmas we are giving away a Love Inspired 3 book bundle. The titles are, "Made to Order Family," by Ruth Logan Herne, "Courting the Enemy" by Renee Ryan, "Oklahoma Reunion", by Tina Radcliff. These books would make great Christmas gifts or great reads to enjoy. So please leave your comment and your email and we will once again pick a winner on Friday. Next week I will be giving away another bundle as we get closer to Christmas. So stay tuned!