'Masterpiece' series is 'best BBC period drama' based on classic novel

A must-watch historical series has been highlighted by fans as "the best period drama based on a classic novel", and you can stream it now, free of charge. North and South is a British television historical drama programme, produced by the BBC and originally broadcast on BBC One in 2004. It is adapted from the 1855 Victorian novel of the same name by Elizabeth Gaskell and is set during the years surrounding the Great Exhibition of 1851. It stars Daniela Denby-Ashe, Richard Armitage, Sinéad Cusack, and Jo Joyner.

The series synopsis reads: "A four-part historical drama based on Elizabeth Gaskell's novel, exploring the romance and class conflicts amidst the industrial revolution in 19th-century England. The story follows Margaret Hale, a young woman from the South who moves to the industrial town of Milton, where she clashes with the pragmatic mill owner, John Thornton, while also developing sympathy for the working class."

The series has been named the best "BBC period drama based on a classic novel" by a YouTuber who goes by the username of Couch Queens. More Than Thornton hailed the series as a "masterpiece", and the 92% rating from the audience reviewers on Rotten Tomatoes reflects that.

The blog said: "What we do know is that all the elements of a masterpiece—the cinematography, the screenwriting, the music, the story, the settings, and the acting by the cast—combined to make some kind of magic spell that still lingers—and still entrances the unwary who happen upon it."

A fan left a comment below the YouTube video, stating: "North and South is such a wonderful movie/series. It’s a beautiful love story. I love the actors who played the lead roles. And all the cast did a very moving job. In fact, I don’t think that I have seen any BBC Series that I haven’t enjoyed seeing. They are all marvellous."

A Google reviewer said: "Get ready to cry. It’s so good, it’s my new Pride and Prejudice. Love any miniseries romance from the 1700s or 1800s, and this just hit it. Richard Armitage is absolutely amazing in this series, and Daniela is good too."

North and South is available to stream free of charge on the platform, U.