Fans of romantic and sultry period dramas like Bridgerton are in for a treat, as there is a series being lauded as a 'masterpiece' that exceeds anything currently available on streaming platforms. Reign is a historical romantic period drama set in the late 16th century, spanning four seasons. Developed by Stephanie Sengupta and Laurie McCarthy for The CW Network, the series originally premiered in October 2013 and concluded in June 2017, much to the disappointment of devoted fans.
A Period Drama Like No Other
The show chronicles the life of Mary, Queen of Scots, and her dramatic ascent to power within the French court. The official synopsis states: 'Mary, Queen of Scots, faces political and sexual intrigue in the treacherous world of the French court.' Viewers have described it as a 'period drama Gossip Girl meets Game of Thrones,' instantly capturing the attention of period drama enthusiasts.
Star-Studded Cast and Stunning Locations
The costume drama stars Adelaide Kane in the leading role as Mary, Queen of Scots, alongside Megan Follows, Torrance Coombs, Toby Regbo, Jenessa Grant, Caitlin Stasey, Anna Popplewell, Celina Sinden, and Jonathan Keltz. The ensemble has consistently received praise for their exceptional portrayals. Filmed primarily in Toronto and the Republic of Ireland, the series has garnered tremendous acclaim from both viewers and critics.
Critical Acclaim and Fan Reactions
One reviewer characterized the show's concept as 'royal intrigue and hot bodice-ripping teen sex!' Another critic noted: 'It never talks down to its audience, is never boring, and has fantastically dynamic characters across both genders.' On Rotten Tomatoes, a fan posted: 'One of the best TV series out there. I have loved every episode of this fictional historical drama. Adelaide Kane is brilliant as Mary and the rest of the cast have a way of making you love their characters too. A must see in my books.'
Another audience assessment read: 'Excellent show week in week out. The characters are so well shaped and the actors play them with robust skill that is just amazing. WOW.' One viewer added: 'Reign is fantastic! The writing and acting is spectacular and flawless.' Another contributed: 'It is not often a TV series can catch my full attention, but Reign has blown me away with its complex and lovable characters. Highly recommend!'
An audience review stated: 'This show is brilliant... the cinematography... characters and concept are great.. yes very loose based on history PUT THAT ASIDE its entertaining Gives a lil of everything romance/quirky and speaks to a wide range of viewers.'
Why Fans Compare It to Gossip Girl
An IMDB reviewer described it as the 'period drama version of Gossip Girl': 'My all time top favorite TV shows! amazing plot and storyline, soundtrack that'll have you searching to download it the second the episode is over, talented actors, and trend setting-pinterest-tumblr-material WARDROBE!!! Oh and the location is as well, serene, magical and authentic. It's a period drama version of Gossip Girl. Every single episode had me in a non-stop marathon mode! The whole of the universe of Reign is 100% phenomenal. It's like a whole other world or you know, some other life you wish you could live.'
Another fan said: 'Dead sexy and great acting. I would HIGHLY RECOMMEND this television series for anyone who likes history and drama and loves some good on screen heat!'
Where to Watch
Reign is available to buy on Amazon Prime Video. For fans of Bridgerton seeking their next obsession, this steamy and romantic period drama promises to deliver all the intrigue, passion, and drama they crave.
