A Period Drama That Captures the Essence of Modern Life
The BBC period drama The Paradise has been praised as a beautifully filmed series that offers an engaging look into the past. Often compared to Mr Selfridge, it is considered by some to be even better. The show first aired in September 2012 and is based on Émile Zola’s 1883 novel Au Bonheur des Dames (The Ladies' Paradise), though with a setting in the North East of England rather than France.
Set in the 1870s, the series follows Denise Lovett, portrayed by Joanna Vanderham, as she leaves her small Scottish town of Peebles to work at England's first department store, The Paradise. This marks her introduction to the fast-paced world of modern life. Fans have described the series as "witty, moving, adorable, suspenseful, intriguing, and the list goes on," with one viewer adding, "hats off... pun intended."
A Charming and Visually Stunning Series
One fan remarked: "If you are looking for a delightful, beautifully filmed series that is period drama and romance, look no further. This charming series offers beautiful sets, gorgeous costumes, and surprising story lines." The production values are clearly a highlight, with many praising the attention to detail in both the visual and narrative aspects of the show.
The cast includes a number of well-known British actors, such as Peter Wight, Sarah Lancashire, David Bamber, Ruby Bentall, Patrick Malahide, Arthur Darvill, Matthew McNulty, and Sonya Cassidy. These actors bring depth and authenticity to their roles, contributing to the overall quality of the series.
Comparisons to Mr Selfridge
Several viewers have noted the similarities between The Paradise and Mr Selfridge, another popular BBC period drama. While Mr Selfridge focuses on the rise of Harry Selfridge's high-end department stores in Britain, The Paradise explores the early days of a similar establishment. One fan said, "It's a shame there are only two seasons. Why BBC, why??" They also mentioned that the BBC had previously stated it would not be returning for a third season "in order to make room for new dramas to come through."
Despite the limited number of seasons, fans have expressed their admiration for the show. One viewer said, "Have patience and enjoy this series. Two seasons just isn't enough." Another added, "Great period drama. Great acting and story. It seems that there is a lot of similarity to Mr Selfridge, and that is a good thing."
A Surprising Delight for Viewers
Interestingly, some fans admitted they almost didn’t watch The Paradise after hearing negative reviews. However, they were ultimately pleased with what they found. One person urged others to "don't hesitate to watch this two-season show!" This sentiment reflects the positive reception the series has received from those who gave it a chance.
Where to Watch
Both seasons of The Paradise are currently available to stream on U, a platform operated by BBC Studios. With its compelling storyline, strong performances, and stunning visuals, the series continues to attract new audiences and earn praise from fans of period dramas. Whether you're a longtime fan of the genre or simply looking for something new, The Paradise offers a rich and immersive viewing experience.
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