Watch The Buccaneers

The Buccaneers is a period drama television series that first aired on BBC in 1995. Set in the 1870s, the series is based on the unfinished novel of the same name by Edith Wharton, which was completed by Marion Mainwaring. The show follows the lives of four young American heiresses, Annabel St. George (played by Carla Gugino), Nan St. George (played by Alison Elliot), Elizabeth Elmsworth (played by Rya Kihlstedt), and Conchita Closson (played by Mira Sorvino), also known as the "Buccaneers". These four girls are determined to find husbands among the British aristocracy, who at the time were in need of money and who were bent on retaining their own power and privileges.

Each of the four women has a distinct personality, and they all have different motivations for seeking out matchmaking with an aristocrat. Annabel is confident and ambitious, Nan has a romantic and adventurous spirit, Elizabeth comes from a wealthy family that needs more prestige, and Conchita is a charming and flirtatious woman who seeks out the same social standing her father had lost.

Their dream leads them to London's glittering society, where they are met with the elitist attitude of the upper crust. The women encounter obstructions at every turn, including the disapproval and snobbery of their would-be suitors and their families. Marrying for love is not an option, as the social system at that time dictates that marriage be based on money, power, and bloodlines.

The story is not just about the four women trying to find a suitable partner. It also tackles the issues that come with their desire to become part of British society, such as navigating through the political and financial challenges of the time, as well as dealing with gender roles and societal expectations.

The show offers a clear glimpse into the politics and social mores of the late Victorian era. It highlights how the privileged aristocrats were struggling to maintain their grip on their own cultural norms and traditions as they were beginning to give way to money and financial influence. The show also explores the lives and struggles of the women in that era who had limited options and had to use their money and charm to gain social status.

The costumes and sets for The Buccaneers were impeccably crafted, evoking the opulence and glamour of high society in the late 19th century. The attention to detail and historical accuracy adds an extra layer of fascination and intrigue to the show.

The acting in The Buccaneers is exceptional, with each actor bringing their character to life in their own unique way, captivating the audience with their charm and wit. The supporting cast, which includes a host of British actors, also does an outstanding job of adding depth and dimension to the story.

In conclusion, The Buccaneers is a captivating period drama that is enjoyable for fans of this genre. It offers a glimpse into the strict customs and social hierarchies of the Victorian era, as well as the lives of the women who defied the status quo. The performances are strong, the costumes and sets are breathtaking, and the story is an excellent adaptation of Edith Wharton's unfinished novel.

The Buccaneers is a series that ran for 1 seasons (4 episodes) between February 5, 1995 and on BBC