This article is spoiler free.
Ready ? Let’s gossip about Bridgerton!
Nearly four years ago, the characters of Bridgerton’s universe arrived on Netflix catalogue’s on royal-worthy carriages. Even if the promotion and first images of season 1 were first met with some apprehension, it didn’t stop the show to find a global success and be renewed for enough seasons to cover all the books —and even potential side characters !
This year, as Penelope and Colins lead season 3 entrance ball, let us explore the popularity around Shonda Rhimes adaptation of Julia Queen’s beloved novels.
Bridgerton’s stories speak to everyone
Bridgerton’s plot is the type of pizza that conceals everyone around a table. Garnished with some romance, steamy scenes, secrets…and even a 19th century gossip journal, the show has all the more simple, but effective, toppings that would satisfy any viewer in their romance hunger.
Sure, there is no surprise about whether or not the couple we’re following is going to end together. Here, it is the development of the different couple and the character’s chemistry that is worth the detour.
From a love at first sight trope (Daphne and Simon), an enemies to lovers (Kate and Antony), a strangers to lovers (Charlotte and George) and, soon, a friends to lovers trope (Penelope and Colin), Bridgerton’s menu is exploring all the trope dishes. And I can assure you that you’ll find your next favorite meal —oops, I meant binge watch.
A glamorous universe
If you’re soft heart (like me), Bridgerton’s universe charmed you from the beginning. If, however, you’re a tough nut to crack, you might have had a beginning of a crush at the first season, which inevitably developed into a bigger one, after season 2. Finally, by Queen Charlotte and farmer George’s story, you might have fallen in love with Bridgerton’s glamorous universe. Indeed, the ballrooms ambiances, the gossiping, the colorful ruffled dresses and Regency/Georgian’s era instrumentals are as charming as gentlemen. Episode after episode, they court you to the extent where you’re engulfed in all the charm and the romanticize society of the 19th century’s Britain !
When history and modern days meet at the crossroad
If Bridgerton was a dress, it would be a perfectly tailored gown with an historical fabric and modern details.
Indeed, Shonda Rhimes has adapted Julia Quinn’s novels into a parallel universe where Britain aristocracy would not only be reserved to white people, but to every person, whatever their origins and ethnicity. In her version, the queen of England is black, strong, love gossiping and playing matchmaker... A Duke can have African ancestors, be smart and charming… A Vicomte can marry a smart tongue and independent brown woman… Here, diversity and representation are smoothly incorporated and add their charms to the scenery.
And last details, but not least ! You’ll marvel at how modern soundtrack has been carefully incorporated to various scenes while being played in victorian tones and instruments. Indeed, you’ll have better luck recognizing Ariana Grande and Rihana’s biggest hit than Georg Friedrich Haendel‘s symphony. And it’s very well executed. Every season is a game to find which song is hiding behind the violin !
Penelope Featherington is the diamond of the season
After two seasons of hiding behind her yellow dresses and her crush for Colin Bridgerton, Penelope Featherington is finally the diamond of her season. What to expect : Nicola Coughlan gorgeousness to explode your screen, flattering gowns, some very juicy secrets… And Colin Bridgerton paddling to gain her love !
And needless to say that the third born Bridgerton has to work very hard to please Penelope —and us, the public. After « I burn for you», « you are the bane of my existence» and « I’m very good with button »… How will he succeed to charm us ?
