The period drama Mr. Malcolm's List, a film heavily influenced by the works of Jane Austen and based on Suzanne Allain's best-selling novel, is set to depart BBC iPlayer on Sunday, July 26. Viewers have only a few days left to stream the 2022 release, which has been hailed as "perfect" by audiences.
Plot and Cast
Set in 1800s England, the story follows Julia Thistlewaite (Zawe Ashton), a young woman rejected by eligible bachelor Jeremy Malcolm (Sope Dirisu) for failing to meet the criteria on his checklist of desired qualities in a bride. Determined to exact revenge, Julia recruits her closest friend, Selina Dalton (Freida Pinto), to help execute an elaborate ruse that leaves Jeremy questioning whether he has found true love or been deceived.
The film also features an ensemble cast including Oliver Jackson-Cohen, Ashley Park, Theo James, Divian Ladwa, Naoko Mori, Sophie Vavasseur, Sianad Gregory, Doña Croll, Paul Tylak, and Dawn Bradfield.
Production and Availability
Principal photography for Mr. Malcolm's List took place primarily in Ireland, utilizing historic stately homes such as Newbridge House in Dublin, Powerscourt Estate in County Wicklow, and Castletown House in County Kildare. The film is currently available to stream for free on BBC iPlayer, but the listing expires on Sunday, July 26.
Audience Reception
Viewers have shared overwhelmingly positive reactions. One fan wrote on IMDb: "As a Jane Austen fan, this was the perfect movie for me. Went with my daughter, and she loved it too. Not only is the story good but love the diversity of the cast!" On Rotten Tomatoes, another reviewer stated: "It's effortlessly outstanding with a remarkable cast, a thoughtful screenplay, and comforting directing that feels like the right kind of escape."
A third viewer added: "It's undeniably satisfying to watch a fantastic cast hitting all the right notes, fresh enough to keep you hooked on the regency romance." Another admitted: "Sharp, perceptive, and as perfectly frothy as a fancy cappuccino. If this movie were a suitor, I'd consider myself utterly wooed."
One fan noted: "Mr Malcolm's List might be drenched in predictability, but its diverse cast, sweet romance and comedic zing give this Jane Austen-style story a much-needed edge." Another observed: "It's cliched for sure, but it's the sort of film that many will return to for comfort and will be discovered over and over. A truly delightful diversion."
