Watch The Story of the Costume Drama

The Story of the Costume Drama was a six-part documentary series produced by BBC Four and Acorn Media in 2008. The series explored the history of costume dramas on television, from their early beginnings to their evolution into one of the most popular genres in television today.

Each episode of the series focused on a different time period, examining the changing nature of costume dramas over the years and the impact that they have had on popular culture. The first episode looked at the early days of costume dramas, beginning with the BBC's adaptation of Elizabeth Gaskell's North and South in 1975. The episode explored the challenges of making costume dramas on a budget, and how the genre evolved throughout the 1970s and 80s with shows such as The Onedin Line and Brideshead Revisited.

Throughout the series, the narrative was brought to life through interviews with actors, writers, and technicians, including luminaries such as Jeremy Irons, Anthony Andrews, and Andrew Davies. The series also featured clips from many of the iconic costume dramas of the past, including Sense and Sensibility, The Forsyte Saga, and The Jewel in the Crown.

One of the standout episodes of the series was the third episode, which focused on the impact of shows like Pride and Prejudice and Jane Eyre on popular culture. The episode explored the ways in which these classic novels have been adapted, dissecting the different interpretations and the ways in which the medium of television has allowed these stories to reach a wider audience. The episode also looked at the challenges of adapting great literature for the screen, examining the decisions that producers must make about which scenes to include and which to cut.

The fifth episode of the series focused on the international appeal of costume dramas, exploring how shows such as Downton Abbey and Upstairs Downstairs have captured audiences all over the world. The episode also examined how costume dramas have been adapted to reflect the changing social and political landscape of the 21st century, from shows such as The Tudors to more recent adaptations of Dickens' novels.

Overall, The Story of the Costume Drama was a fascinating exploration of the genre, offering a behind-the-scenes look at some of the most beloved costume dramas in television history. The series was well-researched and engaging, providing an in-depth analysis of the complex processes involved in making a great costume drama. Whether you're a fan of the genre or simply interested in the history of television, The Story of the Costume Drama is an excellent watch.