Period Dramas: Some of the Best TV Series to Binge-Watch

Period dramas are TV shows or films set in earlier times. They can be entirely fictional or based on real-life events to a degree. Many enjoy watching them because they showcase elements of bygone eras lost to us – costumes are a good example. Here are some of the best period drama TV series to binge-watch. 

Versailles

Versailles is well worth considering if you’re looking for a new period drama. Set in 17th-century France, it follows the construction of the Palace of Versailles with a focus on the French nobility and their exploits. The show lasted three seasons, each of which consisted of 10 episodes. The first aired in the UK in 2016,  the second debuted in 2017 and the third and final in 2018. George Blagden stars as Louis XIV, King of France.

The Great

Set in 18th-century Russia, The Great is about Catherine the Great, Russia’s last and longest-reigning empress. Based on her reign, the show is highly fictionalised and includes black comedy and satire elements. It has two seasons, both of which have 10 episodes. The first was released in 2020, and the second in 2021; a third has been confirmed. The show starts with young Catherine getting married and eventually deciding to overthrow her husband so she can become Russia’s ruler. Elle Fanning stars as Catherine the Great.

The Tudors

As its name implies, this TV show is about the Tudors, a royal house that ruled England from the late 15th to early 17th centuries. Specifically, it focuses on Henry VIII (played by Jonathan Rhys Myers), his reign, his multiple marriages, and their outcomes. The show was broadcasted in the UK by the BBC, it lasted four seasons and has 38 episodes. 

Peaky Blinders

This show is set in Birmingham and follows the Peaky Blinders gang and their criminal deeds following the First World War. Though there was a real-life Peaky Blinders, the one in the show is largely fictionalised. Cillian Murphy stars with Helen McCrory, Sam Neill and Paul Anderson, all playing prominent roles. The show lasted six seasons and aired 36 episodes from 2013 to 2022.

Babylon Berlin

This German series is set in the Weimar Republic and starts in 1929. Volker Bruch and Liv Lisa Fries star as a police officer and a prostitute/aspiring detective, respectively. The show has 36 episodes across four seasons and is said to be the most expensive German-language drama series. Its first series debuted in October 2017; its most recent was released in October 2022. 

Conclusion

Popular TV shows inspire many things, including spin-off series and merchandise. But what you may not know is that casinos are very good at seeing these opportunities when creating new online slots, so you can even find a Peaky Blinders slot game that pays tribute to the show! Watch these period dramas and immerse yourself in times gone by. Given the genre’s popularity – recent shows like ‘Bridgerton’ have been huge – loads more period dramas will undoubtedly come out soon.