The BBC's 2017 adaptation of E.M. Forster's classic novel 'Howards End' is now streaming on Netflix, drawing praise from viewers who call it 'enchanting' and 'sparkling.' The four-part mini-series explores class divisions and Victorian family drama through the intertwined lives of three families: the wealthy Wilcoxes, the intellectual Schlegels, and the lower-middle-class Basts.
A Faithful Adaptation with Stellar Cast
Hayley Atwell stars as Margaret Schlegel, who forms a deep bond with Ruth Wilcox, the owner of the titular country home. Upon Ruth's death, her decision to leave Howards End to Margaret sends shockwaves through the Wilcox family, especially her son Henry, played by Matthew Macfadyen. Meanwhile, the Schlegel sisters befriend Leonard Bast, a clerk, leading to love, pregnancy, and tragedy.
One IMDb reviewer praised the 'sparkling' performances, writing: 'Hayley Atwell enchants in this brilliant and faithful BBC adaptation. All actors are very convincing in their portrayal of multi-faceted characters. I didn't want the show to end.' Another viewer noted the casting choices, including Black actors in Edwardian London, saying Forster 'would have approved' as he was a fierce opponent of racism.
Awards and Critical Acclaim
The series earned a BAFTA nomination for Best Mini-Series in 2018, and Atwell received a Best Actress nomination at the Broadcasting Press Guild Awards. The ensemble cast includes Julia Ormond, Joseph Quinn, Alex Lawther, Tracey Ullman, Rosalind Eleazar, Jonah Hauer-King, and Miles Jupp.
A Rotten Tomatoes reviewer commented: 'I've never read the book nor seen any other adaptation, but I love this genre. I loved it! For me, a married Hayley Atwell became #wifegoals. No man is perfect. No society is perfect. But this miniseries was pretty close.'
Streaming Now
'Howards End' is available to stream on Netflix and the BBC iPlayer. Fans of period dramas and Downton Abbey are urged to watch this 'thoroughly enjoyable' series that remains relevant today.
