Period dramas may be set in eras long past, yet they resonate with contemporary audiences.
One of the standout new series currently available on Netflix,
House of Guinness, delves into the tumultuous world of a renowned brewing dynasty. The plot unfolds in the wake of patriarch Benjamin Guinness’s death, spotlighting the power struggle that ensues among his adult heirs.
If House of Guinness has captured your interest, and you’re keen to explore similar historical dramas filled with multidimensional characters, look no further than Watch With Us, which can guide you to your next binge-worthy series!
Take a look at three critically-acclaimed shows that serve as ideal companions to House of Guinness.
‘Peaky Blinders’ (2013-2022)
It’s no coincidence that House of Guinness shares creative roots with Peaky Blinders. If one stirs your enthusiasm, the other is likely to do the same. Peaky Blinders unfolds in Britain post-World War I, spotlighting the exploits of a crime syndicate led by the audacious Tommy Shelby (Cillian Murphy). This character weaves through a landscape riddled with foes, all while attempting to evade justice.
Critics have lauded Peaky Blinders for its thrilling portrayal of gangster life, peppered with a cast that includes talents such as Tom Hardy, Sam Neill, Josh O’Connor
and Anya Taylor-Joy.
Watch Peaky Blinders on Netflix now.
‘Boardwalk Empire’ (2010-2014)
Set against the backdrop of the Prohibition Era, Atlantic City morphs into an unregulated haven for gangsters and corrupt officials. At the helm is Nucky Thompson (Steve Buscemi), the treasurer tangled in all manner of illicit dealings, while his equally nefarious brother, Elias (Shea Whigham), represents the law as the local sheriff. Nucky’s forte lies in the smuggling of alcohol, and he constantly grapples with dangerous liaisons and federal scrutiny.
Penned under the guidance of Martin Scorsese, who directed the inaugural episode, Boardwalk Empire emerges as a gripping character study marked by the exceptional performances of its ensemble cast. The show’s finesse in storytelling and meticulous historical details have fostered an undeniable synergy between Scorsese’s cinematic flair and showrunner Terence Winter’s expertise (known for The Sopranos), earning a slew of Emmy and Golden Globe nominations throughout its airing.
Catch Boardwalk Empire streaming on HBO Max.
‘Ripper Street’ (2012-2016)
Ripper Street stars Succession‘s Matthew MacFadyen, immersed in the grim aftermath of London’s infamous Jack the Ripper murders, set in 1889. With a transient calm in Whitechapel lasting for six months, the peace is shattered as new murders emerge, drawing Detective Inspector Edmund Reid (MacFadyen) back into the city’s dark underbelly.
Critics have championed Ripper Street for its polished aesthetics and intricately woven narratives that balance tension with dark humor. Despite its gruesome elements, it captivates audiences with its compelling character arcs and engaging performances. While some may want to avoid a meal before viewing, the rich storytelling holds enough allure to welcome even the more sensitive viewers.
