Julian Fellowes, the creator of Downton Abbey, has crafted a six-part Netflix series called The English Game, which explores the origins of the Football Association in England. Set in the 1870s, the show has earned five-star praise from viewers and is available to stream now.
A period drama about football's origins
The English Game, released in 2020, transports viewers back to the 1870s and, much like Downton Abbey, centres on a particular era, brought to life through its settings and costumes. It chronicles the pivotal turning point that transformed football forever, shifting it from a pursuit reserved for the wealthy in Britain to a sport embraced by all social classes.
Viewers follow a working-class sporting hero and his journey, alongside his upper-class counterpart, as both work to revolutionise the game. These trailblazers are known as Arthur Kinnaird and Fergus Suter.
Viewer praise and criticism
The show has garnered considerable praise for addressing thought-provoking themes. One viewer noted it delivers a "good sociological analysis of English class and gender relations". Another fan posted on Rotten Tomatoes: "Having enjoyed other Julian Fellowes TV series, I opted to give 'The English Game' a viewing and was not disappointed. It was much as I expected, except portions of this series dragged on a tad. Perhaps this was highlighted because I binge-watched the whole story in one afternoon."
Another viewer wrote: "Very enjoyable series that you don't need to be a football fan to enjoy. Likeable, well-acted characters and great period costumes and sets. 5 stars."
Cast and historical accuracy
Taking on the two principal roles are Edward Holcroft and Kevin Guthrie, alongside Charlotte Hope as Margaret Alma Kinnaird and Niamh Walsh as Martha Almond. One person stated they were "totally invested in all the characters" despite having no interest in the sport.
Some have taken issue with the programme's historical accuracy, pointing out that Suter didn't secure the cup with Blackburn the year following his arrival at Darwen. In reality, he claimed his first FA Cup after his sixth season in Lancashire. While it's not explicitly shown in the series, it's implied that this triumph occurred within the same year. Further criticism notes that the show conflates the two Blackburn sides, as the town had two teams at the time - Blackburn Olympic and Blackburn Rovers.
However, many are delighted with how the narrative captures the essential elements of the actual events and, more importantly, the profound significance demonstrating just how much the sport matters to its supporters and British society. All six episodes of The English Game are available to stream now exclusively on Netflix.
