BBC's Acclaimed Period Drama 'The Paradise' Now Available for Free Streaming on Prime Video
Fans of historical television series have a new reason to celebrate as the BBC's costume drama The Paradise has become freely accessible on Amazon Prime Video. Originally broadcast on BBC One from 2012 to 2013, this show has been praised as spectacularly entertaining and serves as an ideal substitute for viewers missing popular series like Bridgerton.
Plot and Setting of The Paradise
The narrative of The Paradise commences in the year 1875, centering around England's inaugural department store, which shares its name with the programme. The storyline intricately follows the lives of individuals who either shop or work within this groundbreaking retail establishment, offering a vivid glimpse into Victorian-era commerce and society.
Key Cast and Characters
The series boasts an impressive ensemble cast, including:
- Sarah Lancashire as Miss Audrey, the head of ladies' fashion.
- Joanna Vanderham as Denise Lovett, a new employee from Peebles, Scotland.
- Emun Elliott as John Moray, the widower owner of The Paradise.
- Patrick Malahide as Lord Glendenning, Moray's financial backer.
- Notable guest stars such as Adrian Scarborough from Gavin and Stacey, Mark Bonnar from Line of Duty, and Arthur Darvill from Doctor Who.
Character dynamics drive the plot, with Moray recognizing Denise's potential early on, much to the chagrin of Miss Audrey and fellow shopgirl Clara, portrayed by Sonya Cassidy. Additional figures include Denise's uncle Edmund, a struggling shopkeeper played by Peter Wight, and Katherine, Lord Glendenning's daughter who desires to marry Moray.
Critical Reception and Fan Response
On Rotten Tomatoes, The Paradise holds an impressive 84% audience score, with its first series averaging 4.2 stars out of 5. Enthusiastic viewers have lauded the programme for its immersive quality and memorable characters. One fan remarked, It pulls you in and you can’t wait for the next episode. I love period dramas. I wish there were more than two seasons. Another added, I thought it was wonderful, witty, funny, a good period drama and amazing! The colours, the clothing, the storyline and the actors I give 5 stars!! I loved it.
Despite its popularity, the show concluded after two series comprising 16 episodes, leaving some followers disappointed by the absence of a third season. However, its availability on Prime Video allows audiences to revisit or discover this cherished drama.
Additional Streaming News: ITV's Aftertaste Comedy Series
In related entertainment updates, ITV has released all episodes of the Australian comedy series Aftertaste for free viewing. Originally launched in 2021 and spanning two series, this programme has previously been accessible to Prime Video subscribers. Fans describe it as so outrageous it would make Gordon Ramsay blush and have reported laughing out loud while watching.
Aftertaste stars Erik Thompson as Easton West, a volatile celebrity chef whose career collapses after he throws a pig carcass at a food critic in Shanghai. The plot follows his return to Adelaide, Australia, to rebuild his reputation, aided by his niece Diana, played by Natalie Abbott. Critics have praised the series for its witty, dry humoured and dark satire of celebrity chef culture, with The Guarded noting it offers a uniquely Australian take that’s often laugh-out-loud funny.
This release comes four years after the series ended, providing a fresh comedic option for streaming audiences alongside the dramatic allure of The Paradise.
