The Power of Elegant Period Dramas To Make You Swoon And Fall In Love
Elegant period dramas can often be hauntingly romantic, sweeping the viewer off their feet and into the past. While we may have the convenience of modern day technology, these time-honored stories often hold more charm and beauty than anything created today. Here’s a guide to the most stunning and romantic period dramas that are sure to make you swoon and fall in love.
What Is A Period Drama?
A period drama is a film or television series that is set and shot in a historical time period. The time period of the film or show could be a few centuries past, a century ago, or merely a few decades back; depending on the setting and the movie’s main plot. These films bring an extra layer of life, beauty, and nostalgia as it provides a visual representation of the past.
The Benefits Of Watching Period Dramas
Period dramas provide viewers with many benefits. Those who watch can learn historical facts broadening their knowledge, the film usually is portrayed with intricate detail and accurate settings allowing viewers to see what it was like to live in a past era. Watchers also get to experience the glamour and passion, as well as witness larger-than-life stories that can bring out emotions.
Characteristics Of A Great Period Drama
There are certain characteristics that make a great period drama stand out. It should, first and foremost, accurately portray the time period it’s set in. Second, the story should be engaging and have a clear plot line, as well as detailed characters. Third, the visuals must be captivating, from the costuming to the scenes. Lastly, music plays a key role in a period drama, conveying emotion and establishing a connection to the story.
Top Elegant Period Dramas To Make You Swoon And Fall in Love
- Pride and Prejudice (1995)
This timeless classic is based on the classic novel by Jane Austen, directed beautifully by Simon Langton starring Colin Firth and Jennifer Ehle. The wonderful adaptation of the book captures the romance between poor gentleman Mr. Darcy and the witty and outspoken Miss Elizabeth Bennet, whose marriage of convenience sets the stage for this top period drama.
- The Age of Innocence (1993)
This magnificent period drama is based on the classic novel of the same name by Edith Wharton and it is directed by Martin Scorsese and stars Daniel Day-Lewis as Newland Archer and Michelle Pfeiffer as his beautiful and elegant soon-to-be wife. The romance and reality of the late 19th century sets the stage for the story as Archer finds his life changed forever when he falls in love with Ellen Olenska.
- A Room with a View (1985)
One of the most elegant and visually stunning period dramas, this Merchant-Ivory classic is based on the great novel by E.M. Forster. The film tells the tale of Lucy Honeychurch who visits Florence and meets the young Englishman George Emerson. It brings together two characters in a romantic struggle between the desire for love and the pressure to marry a suitor of appropriate class and money.
- Sense and Sensibility (1995)
This delightful adaptation of Jane Austen’s classic novel stars Hugh Grant, Emma Thompson, and Alan Rickman, and is directed by Thompson. The story follows the Dashwood sisters who, after their father’s death, must make their way in society on reduced means. Parallel love stories of Elinor and Edward and Marianne and Willoughby unfold in this period drama, which is sure to make viewers swoon and fall in love with the characters and their stories.
- Becoming Jane (2007)
This romantic period drama stars Anne Hathaway and James McAvoy in the story of the young Jane Austen. The film is based on Austen’s biography, exploring her life and love affair with Tom Lefroy. This tale of Austen’s romantic life brings with it an interesting spin to her writing style and personal life.
- Anna Karenina (2012)
This visually stunning adaptation of the classic novel by Leo Tolstoy is directed by Joe Wright, starring Keira Knightley, Jude Law, and Aaron Taylor-Johnson. This epic tale follows the young Anna Karenina’s passionate affair, which leads her to ruin and scandal in the end. The romance between Anna and Vronsky, played by Taylor-Johnson, is one of the most swoon-worthy in period drama film.
- Little Women (1994)
This charming adaptation by Gillian Armstrong is based on the much-loved novel by Louisa May Alcott. Starring Winona Ryder, Trini Alvarado, Susan Sarandon, and Christian Bale, this charming tale follows the life of the four March sisters and their various romantic pursuits. Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy bring an emotional and inspiring story of family love and individual growth, along with a little romance.
Period dramas are an impeccable way to escape into the past and explore lives and stories that are long gone. These timeless films and series will forever remain true classics, inspiring viewers with nostalgia and romance—and always making us swoon and fall in love. Whether you’re looking to escape or learn something new, these spectacular period dramas are a must-watch.
