Period drama fans have something to get excited about.
Channel 5 has just launched The Forsytes, a prequel and reimagining of the much-loved Forsyte Saga, and viewers are already calling it “the perfect period drama.”
Even if you’ve never seen its predecessor, there’s plenty to draw you in.
The original Forsyte Saga, which aired over two decades ago, followed the scandal, love, and heartbreak of a wealthy family spanning generations.
This new adaptation dives into the events that came before, giving audiences a fresh perspective on John Galsworthy’s Nobel Prize-winning novels.
A Tale of Wealth, Love, and Obsession
At the heart of the story is Soames, a wealthy solicitor obsessed with property, status, and ultimately, Irene Heron.
While Irene comes from humble beginnings, she finds herself drawn into Soames’s orbit despite initial resistance.
Their marriage is as much about social expectation as it is about romance, showing how money and love often collide in dramatic ways.
Fans of the original series still rave about the characters.
One viewer admitted, “It’s still one of my favorites. It made me fall in love with these actors for the first time.”
Another praised the subtle craftsmanship of Lewis’s portrayal of Soames, describing him as “heartless yet compelling, someone you both love and loathe.”
From the Old Saga to the New Adaptation
The 2002/2003 ITV series earned a devoted following, and viewers eagerly awaited Channel 5’s new take.
The Forsytes premiered its first episode on October 20, with Eleanor Tomlinson starring as Louisa Byrne, a character whose return shakes the family to its core.
The series continues to air new episodes every Monday at 9pm, keeping audiences hooked week after week.
A synopsis for the new series promises drama, love, and the trials of a Victorian stockbroking family caught between tradition and personal desire, ensuring that fans of intricate storytelling won’t be disappointed.
Life After Life Shows Period Drama Can Still Be Bold
While The Forsytes is turning heads, BBC’s Life After Life has also captured attention with its ambitious premise and flawless execution.
The 2022 miniseries, streaming now on BBC iPlayer, adapts Kate Atkinson’s 2013 novel.
It tells the extraordinary story of Ursula Todd, a woman born into the early 20th century who dies and is reborn repeatedly, navigating different lives across two world wars.
The concept is intricate, but viewers have hailed it as a masterpiece, with a 100% Rotten Tomatoes score.
Where to Watch Your Next Period Drama Fix
For fans old and new, the options are plentiful. The Forsyte Saga remains available on ITVX for those wanting to binge the original classic.
Meanwhile, The Forsytes offers a fresh take for Channel 5 audiences every Monday at 9pm.
If you prefer a story with a twist of reincarnation and historical breadth, Life After Life is streaming on BBC iPlayer, giving viewers a chance to dive into an intricate and highly acclaimed narrative.
Whether you’re in the mood for generational drama, love entanglements, or time-twisting storytelling, these period dramas have something to offer every TV enthusiast.
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