The BBC period drama has been praised by audiences, with some viewers labeling it 'far more believable' than other Brontë adaptations. It is free to stream on BBC iPlayer.
The 'incredible' series is often overlooked when it comes to the period drama genre. Fans of period dramas, particularly those adapted from the Brontë sisters' novels, are in for a treat as one hugely overlooked television gem is being championed as essential viewing.
Having received rave reviews and widespread critical acclaim in the years following its release, The Tenant of Wildfell Hall first aired on the BBC in November 1996. The three-part miniseries is based on Anne Brontë's 1848 novel of the same name and was directed by Mike Barker.
Available to watch for free on BBC iPlayer, this outstanding period drama has prompted viewers to declare it superior even to adaptations of Emily Brontë's Wuthering Heights and Charlotte Brontë's Jane Eyre.
Frequently overlooked in the period drama arena, and particularly among Brontë adaptations, The Tenant of Wildfell Hall features Tara Fitzgerald, Rupert Graves, and Toby Stephens in principal roles, portraying Helen Graham, Arthur Huntington, and Gilbert Markham respectively.
Sarah Badel, Jackson Leach, Sean Gallagher, Jonathan Cake, Joe Absolom, and Kenneth Cranham complete a remarkably skilled supporting cast. Running across three hour-long episodes, this period drama masterpiece earned four BAFTA nominations: Best Make-Up and Hair Design, which it claimed; Best Costume Design; Best Design; and Best Photography and Lighting (Fiction/Entertainment).
The programme's official synopsis states: 'A mysterious woman with a hidden past arrives at crumbling Wildfell Hall. Through her story a tale of betrayal, abuse and defiance unfolds in haunting detail. Anne Bronte classic.'
Since its debut broadcast, the period drama has attracted considerable acclaim from audiences, with one IMDB reviewer noting: 'A Wonderful Romance. I loved this mini series. As an anglophile who loves romances... this movie was just my cup of tea and I would recommend it to anyone looking to escape for a few hours into the England of the 1800s.'
Drawing comparisons with other Brontë works, one fan said: 'Tenant is far more believable than Wuthering Heights or even Jane Eyre; here is an adaptation that does the novel justice. I highly recommend viewing it!'
Another reviewer echoed those feelings: 'A classic book told truly excellently. The Tenant of Wildfell Hall does deserve to be up there with Jane Eyre and Wuthering Heights as it does have all the ingredients of a classic. This dramatisation is just excellent with its only detriment being the ending feeling rather rushed.'
One IMDB user praised the production: 'The actors are superb, the best Brits have to offer. The love story is beautifully handled, with real passion and feeling by well-matched actors. Another BBC classic, highly recommended: this is how romantic literature should be dramatised.'
Another added: 'Marvellous film. Anne Bronte's epic novel should be studied and read throughout schools, libraries, and people's living rooms. Do watch this film, it's a great version of the book and very moving indeed. I'm sure Anne herself would have been happy with the way it was produced. Excellent acting and great locations.'
The Tenant of Wildfell Hall is streaming now on BBC iPlayer.
