Amazon Prime's 'steamy' period drama 'Belgravia' is the perfect watch for Downton Abbey fans. Adapted from Julian Fellowes' 2016 novel, the series delves into scandal, intrigue, and romance in 19th-century London.
The Story Behind Belgravia
Set in the 19th century, 'Belgravia' opens at the Duchess of Richmond's ball in June 1815, just two days before the Battle of Waterloo. The narrative centres on the Trenchard and Bellasis families, exploring class conflict, secrets, and forbidden love. Directed by John Alexander and written by Julian Fellowes, the show reunites the production team from 'Downton Abbey'.
Julian Fellowes' Vision
Fellowes addressed comparisons to his earlier hit, stating, 'I think Belgravia is darker than Downton. The servants are working people; they're doing their jobs because those are the jobs that were available. It's not sentimental. It's a sharper world.' The limited series first aired on ITV in March 2020 and later on Epix in the US. A sequel, 'Belgravia: The Next Chapter', debuted in January 2024.
Cast and Reception
The ensemble cast includes Alice Eve, Ella Purnell, Tamsin Greig, Richard Goulding, Emily Reid, Tom Wilkinson, Harriet Walter, Philip Glenister, and Tara Fitzgerald. Critical reviews were mixed. One critic praised it as having 'all the touchstones of a bodice-ripper. Great romance and thrilling revenge.' Another called it 'a one-stop shop for all the worst excesses and boredoms of a genre that has outlived its usefulness.' Viewer responses were largely positive, with one fan describing it as 'incredible' and another lauding its 'authenticity' and lack of 'woke political ideology.'
'Belgravia' is currently available to stream on Amazon Prime.
