A lavish period drama set in the North East of England has been hailed as a "flawless masterpiece" by fans, who claim it surpasses popular shows like Downton Abbey and Bridgerton. The series, titled The Paradise, is available to stream for free on U.
A Captivating Love Story in 1870s England
The Paradise is a British costume drama adapted from Émile Zola's 1883 novel, Au Bonheur des Dames. While Zola's original work focused on the founder of Le Bon Marché, the series transfers the story to the North East of England. It centers on an "intoxicating love story" unfolding within England's first department store during the 1870s. The series made its debut on BBC One in 2012 and aired a second series in 2013.
Plot and Characters
The opening season begins in 1875, charting the lives, romances, and ambitions of those who worked, shopped, and traded in and around England's first department store. The proprietor of The Paradise is widower John Moray, a former draper's boy who transformed a modest shop into the grand establishment. Into this world arrives Denise Lovett, a young woman from the Scottish town of Peebles, whose uncle is among local shopkeepers fighting to stay afloat. Denise secures a position at The Paradise and quickly catches Moray's eye, much to the irritation of Miss Audrey, the formidable head of ladies' fashion, and fellow shopgirl Clara.
Cast and Filming Locations
Joanna Vanderham leads the cast as Denise Lovett, with Emun Elliott portraying John Moray. The ensemble includes Peter Wight, Matthew McNulty, David Hayman, Sarah Lancashire, Sonya Cassidy, Stephen Wight, and Elaine Cassidy. The visually breathtaking series was filmed on location at Lambton Castle in County Durham.
Fan Reactions and Critical Acclaim
Fans have expressed their admiration across social media, with one IMDb reviewer declaring: "This was a thoroughly delightful series to watch. Stunning costumes and scenery. Outstanding performances. Flawless masterpiece." Another proclaimed: "The best ever!! Just as good as Downton Abbey," while a third stated: "Absolutely captivated by the brilliance of Denise and the charm of Mr Murray." One viewer remarked: "The Paradise is just that! An amazing show which captivates you very quickly and has you thinking constantly." Another revealed: "My wife and I have enjoyed other period shows such as Downton Abbey, Bridgerton, and The Gilded Age, and I think it's better than all of them." A sixth enthusiast reinforced this view, declaring: "One of the most underrated shows. It compels you to binge watch! It's a stand out series. So flawless." Another fan concurred, stating: "Better than Mr Selfridge," while someone else observed: "Impeccably cast, extremely handsome, predictably soapy and a trifle slow moving, it's another first-rate costume drama."
All 16 episodes of The Paradise are available to stream for free on U.
