Netflix’s “Bridgerton” has been taking over the internet for the past few weeks now. From memes and Tik Toks to heated discussions and theories, it’s hard to ignore – but is it really worth the hype?
“Bridgerton” follows the story of Daphne Bridgerton, the first daughter in a wealthy family in Regency-era London, as she makes her debut into the world of the extremely competitive marriage market. The show is narrated by Lady Whistledown, a gossip writer with the inside scoop on everything happening in town. Think of it as a period drama meets “Gossip Girl” meets “Pride and Prejudice.” As Daphne seeks out a good suitor she ends up finding love and excitement in unexpected places and with unexpected people.
Not only is the plot compelling and detailed enough to keep you sucked in for the entire eight episodes, but the way the show uses music, costume, color and script all work together to make the show perfectly binge-worthy.
If you’re a history buff, the show may not be for you. Many people online have called “Bridgerton” out for using historically inaccurate clothing, mistakes on set like painted lines in the streets and manhole covers, and its overall representation of the Regency era in London. If you can ignore the mistakes and appreciate the show for the fiction story that it is, you will definitely enjoy it. Besides –– who doesn’t want to listen to a classical version of Ariana Grande’s “Thank You, Next” playing over a beautiful ballroom dance scene?
The characters are complex, with clear arcs and interesting development throughout only a few episodes. The characters are written in a way that easily pushes along the plot. Each episode is easy to follow with enough intricacy to keep it lively, and it won’t make you fall asleep. If you loved “Gossip Girl”, you’ll definitely be on the edge of your seat conspiring as to who Lady Whistledown could be.
The chemistry between certain characters is undeniable and can be felt through the screen. That being said, the show certainly covers a number of adult themes and has lots of suggestive scenes. If those scenes or topics make you uncomfortable, you can still enjoy the show by fast-forwarding through the steamier scenes.
Overall, if you’re looking for your next binge but don’t want to fall into yet another one of Netflix’s genius marketing traps, you should actually give this one a try. “Bridgerton” will absolutely provide you with an escape to a different time, and the characters will feel like friends. Even if you’re not fully convinced by the hundreds of memes that have surely taken over your feed, just watch the first episode –– I wasn’t sure about it at first either, but now I’m hooked.