The acclaimed British historical period drama, has fans raving over its breathtaking scenery, exciting storylines and stellar performances – and all five seasons are now streaming on Netflix
George Warleggan was one of the villains(Image: BBC)
Fans of sweeping, smash-hit period dramas such as Bridgerton and Downton Abbey are in for a real treat, as there’s one British gem that has been hailed as the perfect substitute for these beloved shows.
This British historical period drama series has viewers raving over its gripping storylines, stunning scenery and outstanding performances. The best part?
All five seasons of the show are available to stream on Netflix.
Poldark has viewers absolutely hooked – and audiences simply can’t stop waxing lyrical over the period drama. Written, created and adapted for television by Debbie Horsfield, Poldark is based on Winston Graham’s book series of the same name.
The show first aired in March 2015 on BBC One and ran until August 2019. Poldark adapts the first seven of the twelve novels in Graham’s novel series, and the show comprises five series with 43 episodes in total, all of which are currently streaming on Netflix, reports Wales Online.
All five series are on Netflix(Image: BBC)
Poldark tells the story of Ross Poldark, a British Army veteran who served during the American Revolutionary War and returns to his home in Cornwall, England, only to discover that his father has died and his once-grand estate lies in ruins.
Set between 1781 and 1801, the show follows Ross’ efforts to rebuild his life and fortune while navigating love, family and societal relationships.
The character of Ross Poldark is portrayed by Aidan Turner, who is joined by Eleanor Tomlinson, Heida Reed, Ruby Bentall, Jack Farthing and Luke Norris, alongside a broader ensemble cast.
Poldark secured the prestigious Audience Award at the 2016 BAFTA TV Awards and received nominations for several coveted accolades at the 21st and 22nd National Television Awards, including Best New Drama, Best Period Drama, Best Drama Performance and Impact Award, with Aidan Turner claiming the latter.
Dubbed an ‘instant classic’, the show is available to stream on Netflix(Image: BBC/Mammoth Screen/Robert Viglasky)
Poldark has largely been filmed across iconic locations in Cornwall, with certain episodes featuring scenes captured in Corsham, Wiltshire, and Frome, Bath and Wells in Somerset. Sets for the programme were also constructed at The Bottle Yard Studios in Bristol.
Boasting an impressive 89% average approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes across all five seasons, Poldark has proven to be a resounding hit with both audiences and critics alike.
One impressed reviewer said of the series: “Thankfully…the series delivers immediately on the panoramic scenery and romance that this genre demands: plunging cliffs, green fields, galloping horses and burning glances aplenty.”
While one critic was all praise for Turner: “I came to it fresh, never having seen the apparently much-loved 1970s version, and was suitably enchanted by Aidan Turner.”
Another reviewer said: “Poldark is juicy, romantic, melodramatic storytelling at its most enjoyable.”
Audiences can’t stop raving about the period drama series(Image: BBC/Mammoth Screen/Mike Hogan)
A fourth critic cheekily shared: “Beneath the ruffles and wigs (Turner’s glue-stained curls in this season have been abominable) are stories with real heart, and characters we can fall in love with again and again.”
Audiences have been left equally impressed, with one fan writing on Rotten Tomatoes: “Poldark has everything I look for in a TV series: great characters, adventure, drama, joy, romance, inspiration, and feel good moments. The acting and the story are not exaggerated like in a soap opera.”
One user review on IMDB reads: “This is a superb series. It recaptures the golden age of UK television, for those of us old enough to remember it. For those who do not, you are in for a real treat. 10 out of 10 from me.”
While another review posted to IMDB says: “Absolute Masterpiece! Where to start? ! This is one of those shows that are unrepeatable, unmatched! The visuals are breathtaking, the atmosphere dense, the music is superb (the intro alone deserves to be played non-stop) costumes, actors, colour palette, everything about this series is extremely well made.
“This is an instant classic. I thought the same thing back in 2015 when I first saw it. Now that I’m 32, I enjoy it and understand it even more, it’s just beautiful in every possible way. 10/10!”.
One viewer added: “Fantastic series, definitively one to watch! Absolutely love it.”
All series of Poldark are on Netflix now.