Fans of romantic and steamy period dramas packed with multiple storylines, characters, and perspectives — much like Bridgerton — are in for a real treat, as one series is being hailed as a 'masterpiece' that far surpasses anything else currently available to stream on television.
A Period Drama Like No Other
The historical drama series has been praised for its stellar acting, royal intrigue, and 'infinite drama'. Viewers say it's a must-watch for fans of Bridgerton. The show has garnered widespread praise for its acting, compelling storylines, on-screen chemistry, and endless drama, with some viewers describing it as a 'period drama Gossip Girl meets Game of Thrones'.
What Is Reign About?
Reign is a historical romantic period drama set in the late 16th century, spanning four seasons. Crafted by Stephanie Sengupta and Laurie McCarthy for The CW Network, the series first aired in October 2013 and wrapped up after four series in June 2017 — much to the devastation of its devoted fanbase. The show centres on the life of Mary, Queen of Scots, and her remarkable ascent to power within the French court. The show's official plot states: 'Mary, Queen of Scots, faces political and sexual intrigue in the treacherous world of the French court.'
Cast and Production
The costume drama features Adelaide Kane in the lead role as Mary, Queen of Scots, alongside Megan Follows, Torrance Coombs, Toby Regbo, Jenessa Grant, Caitlin Stasey, Anna Popplewell, Celina Sinden, and Jonathan Keltz, completing an ensemble cast that has consistently been lauded for their exceptional performances throughout the show. The series was predominantly filmed between Toronto and the Republic of Ireland.
Critical and Audience Acclaim
The series has garnered enormous praise from both audiences and critics. One reviewer described the show's premise as 'royal intrigue and hot bodice-ripping teen sex!' Another critic said: 'It never talks down to its audience, is never boring, and has fantastically dynamic characters across both genders.' One fan wrote on Rotten Tomatoes: 'One of the best TV series out there. I have loved every episode of this fictional historical drama. Adelaide Kane is brilliant as Mary and the rest of the cast have a way of making you love their characters too. A must see in my books.' Another review added: 'Excellent show week in week out. The characters are so well shaped and the actors play them with robust skill that is just amazing. WOW'
One viewer commented: 'Reign is fantastic! The writing and acting is spectacular and flawless.' Another said: 'It is not often a TV series can catch my full attention, but Reign has blown me away with its complex and lovable characters. Highly recommend!' Yet another audience review read: 'This show is brilliant...the cinematography...characters and concept are great..yes very loose based on history PUT THAT ASIDE its entertaining Gives a lil of everything romance/quirky and speaks to a wide range of viewers.'
One IMDB review describes it as the 'period drama version of Gossip Girl': 'My all time top favorite TV shows! amazing plot and storyline, soundtrack that'll have you searching to download it the second the episode is over, talented actors, and trend setting-pinterest-tumblr-material WARDROBE!!! Oh and the location is as well, serene, magical and authentic. It's a period drama version of Gossip Girl. Every single episode had me in a non-stop marathon mode! The whole of the universe of reign is 100% phenomenal. It's like a whole other world or you know, some other life you wish you could live.' Another fan added: 'Dead sexy and great acting. I would HIGHLY RECOMMEND this television series for anyone who likes history and drama and loves some good on screen heat!'
Where to Watch
Reign is streaming now on Amazon Prime.
