The BAFTA-nominated mini-series Howards End, based on E.M. Forster's celebrated novel, is now streaming on Netflix and has been hailed as a "delight" and "thoroughly enjoyable" by fans. Starring Hayley Atwell and Matthew Macfadyen, the four-episode series examines class divisions and family intrigue in Victorian England.
Plot and Characters
The story follows the Schlegel sisters, Margaret (Hayley Atwell) and Helen (Philippa Coulthard), who befriend the wealthy and conservative Wilcox family. Margaret forms a close bond with Ruth Wilcox, the owner of the titular family home, Howards End. On her deathbed, Ruth makes a decision that shakes the Wilcox family, particularly her son Henry (Matthew Macfadyen). Meanwhile, the Schlegels attempt to help Leonard Bast, a struggling lower-class clerk, leading to a dramatic climax.
Fan and Critical Praise
One fan on IMDb described the performances as "sparkling," writing: "Matthew Macfadyen and Hayley Atwell just lit up the screen... I thought perhaps the glory days of BBC Sunday night costume dramas had passed, but their performances here were wonderful, the control and command of the dialogue was exquisite. A delight." Another added: "The story was interesting and I could not guess the ending. I loved the characters and how they changed over the course of the series. They learned and evolved. I loved the acting, photography, music and details about life in England and the different classes of people. Thoroughly enjoyable!"
A Rotten Tomatoes review noted: "This transported me to a place that was very charming. I loved the story, the actors, the costumes and sets. All the hair and makeup was understated and elegant. I loved it." Another viewer commented: "Hayley Atwell gives, yet again, a brilliant performance, along with Matthew Macfadyen. It is wonderfully written and directed and it feels energetic and dynamic through most of it."
Awards and Cast
The series received a BAFTA nomination for Best Mini-Series in 2018, and Atwell was shortlisted for Best Actress at the Broadcasting Press Guild Awards. The ensemble cast includes Julia Ormond, Joseph Quinn, Alex Lawther, Tracey Ullman, Rosalind Eleazar, Jonah Hauer-King, Joe Bannister, Sandra Voe, and Miles Jupp.
Howards End is available to stream now on Netflix.
