A BBC period drama set in the North East has been hailed by fans as a 'flawless masterpiece,' with some even declaring it superior to the beloved series Downton Abbey. The series, titled The Paradise, is currently available to stream free of charge, making it an ideal watch for enthusiasts of historical costume dramas.
A Captivating Story Set in the 1870s
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 story of Aristide Boucicaut, the founder of Le Bon Marché, the television adaptation relocates the narrative to the North East of England. It centers on an 'intoxicating love story' set within England's first department store during the 1870s.
The series debuted on BBC One in 2012 and arrived in the United States the following year. A second series aired in 2013. The show was shot on location at Lambton Castle in County Durham, adding to its visual appeal.
Plot and Characters
The opening season begins in 1875 and chronicles the lives and romances of those who worked, shopped, and conducted business in and around the pioneering English department store. The proprietor of The Paradise is widower John Moray, who started as a draper's boy at Emersons, the modest shop that flourished under his management to become The Paradise.
Entering this world is Denise Lovett, who arrives from the small Scottish town of Peebles. Her uncle, Edmund, is among the local shopkeepers struggling to stay afloat. Denise secures employment at The Paradise and quickly catches Moray's eye as a rising talent, much to the irritation of Miss Audrey, the head of ladies' fashion, and Clara, a fellow shopgirl.
Star-Studded Cast
Joanna Vanderham takes the lead role as Denise Lovett, with Emun Elliott portraying John Moray. The cast also features Peter Wight, Matthew McNulty, David Hayman, Sarah Lancashire, Sonya Cassidy, Stephen Wight, and Elaine Cassidy. Their performances have been widely praised.
Fan Reactions
Viewers have expressed their admiration for the period drama across social media channels. One IMDb reviewer stated: 'This was a thoroughly delightful series to watch. Stunning costumes and scenery. Outstanding performances. Flawless masterpiece.' Another commented: 'The best ever!! Just as good as Downton Abbey,' while a third remarked: 'Absolutely captivated by the brilliance of Denise and the charm of Mr Murray.'
Someone else noted: 'The Paradise is just that! An amazing show which captivates you very quickly and has you thinking constantly,' with another revealing: '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 fan 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 viewer 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.'
Where to Watch
All 16 episodes of The Paradise are available to stream free of charge on U. Fans of period dramas are encouraged to discover this visually captivating series.
