7:54 PM, Jan. 4, 2012
Written byAnnie J. KelleyWhat, you're having trouble waiting for the new season of "Downton Abbey"? You want lavish drama, lots of ruffles and British accents right now? Then here are some period drama alternatives to keep you satisfied until Sunday, when season two of "Downton Abbey" begins on PBS.
Wives and Daughters" (1999) Molly Gibson's life changes when her father decides to re-marry. Her new stepmother has pretensions and her new stepsister has secrets.
What's an emotional and outspoken woman to do when the man she loves starts courting her new flirtatious sister?
Hint: it involves telling off smug ne'er-do-wells and wearing dresses with puffy sleeves.
Available at: Netflix streaming, Amazon Prime, Willard Library
"Daniel Deronda" (2002) You might be a Mirah, quiet, passionate and an outsider, but we all secretly want to be the glamorous Gwendolen, sitting at the gambling table of life, sparkling with confidence while betting everything.
The story is supposed to be about Daniel Deronda uncovering his Jewish heritage, but it turns out that in the end people are more defined by their ability to love than a position in society.
Available at: Netflix streaming, Amazon Prime, Willard Library
"A Room With A View" (1985) Stick with the 1985 version, starring Helena Bonham Carter as the naive Lucy Honeychurch, whose trip to Italy opens her eyes to love and life.
It's a grand dame overload, with Maggie Smith and Judi Dench making appearances, too.
The 2007 version ends with a controversial interpretation of the original novel, and lacks actresses with a commanding presence.
Available at: Netflix streaming
"The Buccaneers" (1995) This series stars four American women, but there's plenty of English class-related drama: the women are shipped off to England by their nouveau riche families to marry British aristocrats who have loads of nobility but no money.
It's kind of a fish-out-of-water story, only with fancy dresses.
According to USA Today, this was the most-viewed Masterpiece Theater drama since 1990 ("Downton Abbey" is third).
http://www.battlecreekenquirer.com/article/20120105/ENTERTAINMENT/201050307
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