If you’re in search of a gripping period drama to get you through the dark winter nights, then look no further.
The 2015 series Versailles, which grew a loyal UK audience after airing all three seasons on BBC Two, stars Alexander Vlahos and George Blagden in this royal court drama filled with salacious twists and turns.
Now on Amazon Prime Video, the synopsis reads: ‘The year is 1667. King Louis XIV of France is 28 and finally in sole command of his kingdom.
‘Welcome to a world of power and betrayal, love, lust and declarations of war, where courtiers battle for the King’s favour. This is Versailles in all its brutal glory. ’
For most, Versailles conjures thoughts of Marie Antoinette, the French Revolution and the spectacular Hall of Mirrors.
But this series offers a glimpse into how it was once a thriving social and political hub of a very different kind – and the scene of many history-making moments you never even realised.
It’s got something for the history buffs (even if it errs from the facts), the period drama lovers, the LGBTQ+ community and more with its sprawling, sexy plotlines delivered with gravitas by a standout cast.
The first season landed an impressive 86% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, with fans sharing their deep love for the series from the get-go.
Despite its popularity among those who have seen it, it remains one of the lesser-known shows from this era that also produced mammoth productions like Downton Abbey and Poldark.
Although this is probably more akin to shows like The Tudors and The Borgias when it comes to the stakes, aesthetic and political dynamics.
The best ‘costume drama’ of all time
The Los Angeles Times dubbed it ‘the best show you probably never watched’ while the Guardian called it a ‘trashy, extravagant romp’.
San Francisco Chronicle praised the ‘powerful and compelling characters [that] hold our attention’, and Collider said ‘it’s fun, pure and simple’.
As for the fans, RT user Neal G said: ‘This is perhaps the best “costume drama” of all time. I loved the depiction of Louis as both visionary and beset with fraternal jealousy.’
‘This show is sadly underrated. It is stunningly shot, costumed, written and performed. George Blagden plays Louis XIV with a subdued strength, will and cunning that is often underestimated by his enemies and friends alike,’ another user echoed.
The show wrapped up in 2018 but maintains a strong fanbase to this day.
In a 2016 interview, Alexander, who played Louis XIV’s brother Monsieur Philippe d’Orléans, said it was ‘probably the most physically and emotionally demanding role I’ve ever had.’
He added to the Evening Standard: ‘There’s always a fine line you have to tread, so you don’t end up scene-stealing for the wrong reasons.
‘I genuinely believe that Philippe is such an out-there and confusing character. I gave him my all and kept pushing what I could do with him, and no-one ever told me stop.’
Versailles is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video now.
Got a story?
If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.