Three Masterpiece Period Dramas to Watch After The Other Bennet Sister
The Other Bennet Sister made its long-awaited debut on BBC One earlier this month, receiving rave reviews from critics and audiences alike. Inspired by Jane Austen's iconic Pride and Prejudice, this new series is based on the best-selling novel by Janice Hadlow and shifts the focus to Mary Bennet, the seemingly unremarkable middle sister from the classic tale.
Set in early 19th Century Regency England, the official synopsis teases a compelling narrative: "The series follows Mary as she steps out of her sisters' shadows in search of her own identity and purpose, finding herself in the middle of an epic love story along the way." Her journey takes her from the family home in Meryton to the sophisticated soirées of Regency London and the scenic landscapes of the Lake District, all in pursuit of independence, self-love, and personal reinvention.
The Other Bennet Sister has achieved an impressive 89% score on Rotten Tomatoes, with viewers praising it as "perfectly cast and incredibly watchable" and "costume drama at its finest." As fans eagerly await the next instalment of the ten-episode series, here is a curated look at three other masterpiece period dramas available to watch now, each offering rich storytelling and historical charm.
1) Pride and Prejudice (1995)
The BBC's 1995 adaptation of Pride and Prejudice remains a landmark in television history, starring Jennifer Ehle as Elizabeth Bennet and Colin Firth as Mr. Darcy in a six-part series. This production also features notable performances from Alison Steadman as Mrs. Bennet, Emilia Fox as Georgiana Darcy, and Roger Barclay as Captain Carter.
Colin Firth's iconic emergence from a lake in dripping breeches and a clinging white shirt as Mr. Darcy was once voted the most memorable British TV drama moment of all time, cementing the series' place in popular culture. With an impressive 88% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, viewers have lauded it as "a classic! Witty and charming with great performances" and "the best version adaptation of the book." Many fans consider it an absolute classic, often revisiting it for yearly autumn rewatches.
2) Sense and Sensibility (2008)
The BBC's 2008 adaptation of Sense and Sensibility stars Hattie Morahan and Charity Wakefield as Elinor and Marianne Dashwood, bringing Jane Austen's classic novel to life with elegance and depth. This series portrays the intricate lives and loves of the Dashwood sisters, supported by a stellar cast including David Morrissey as Colonel Brandon, Linda Bassett as Mrs. Jennings, Lucy Boynton as Margaret Dashwood, and Dominic Cooper as John Willoughby.
Earning an 88% score on Rotten Tomatoes, this adaptation has been praised for capturing "the wit, humor, and spirit of Austen." Viewers have noted that it is "by far the most accurate and best adaptation" with brilliant casting, making it a must-watch for enthusiasts of period dramas and Austen's work.
3) Miss Austen (2025)
The BBC's 2025 four-part historical drama, Miss Austen, is an adaptation by Andrea Gibb of the novel Miss Austen by Gill Hornby. The series delves into secrets that unfold one letter at a time, posing the intriguing question: "Will Cassandra expose the most private details of her life, or send her sister Jane’s legacy up in flames?"
Starring Keeley Hawes as Cassandra Austen, Patsy Ferran as Jane Austen, Rose Leslie as Isabella Fowle, and Max Irons as Henry Hobday, this drama has garnered an impressive 92% on Rotten Tomatoes. Fans have described it as "beautiful and fun, like sitting next to a glow of a candle in the dark" and praised it as "a really good adaptation of the novel." The series offers a captivating glimpse into the Austen family dynamics, enhanced by stunning scenery and costumes.
In summary, The Other Bennet Sister is currently available to watch on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, providing a fresh perspective on Austen's world. For those seeking more immersive period dramas, these three masterpieces—Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility, and Miss Austen—offer timeless storytelling, exceptional performances, and the enduring appeal of Regency-era drama. Each series stands as a testament to the lasting legacy of Jane Austen and the art of historical television.
