Must-See Period Drama Movies

I've been on a period drama, movie-watching kick the last few nights (probably because I'm impatiently waiting for the Downton Abbey movie) and am so glad I found these! 

I'll admit; I've never read the book, but there was something about the movie that made me put it on my watchlist at Netflix. It's been there for quite some time until I finally decided to just watch it. And wow. 

​First, I adore Lily James from her time as Rose on Downton Abbey.  She was just as perfect in this role, and her chemistry with all of the other characters, including Penelope Wilton (also from Downton Abbey) was spot-on. 

This movie is set shortly after WW II comes to an end and explores the aftermath and the devastating effects on the people left behind. It's a stunning production and good enough for a second watch! 

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And I thought the 1995 version with Emma Thompson and Alan Rickman was my favorite. It has now been eclipsed by this 2008 version! 

It, too, stars a Downton Abbey veteran, Dan Stevens, as Edward Ferres, and he brought such emotion to the character in spite of his stoic presence. 

The overall acting in this movie captivated me. There wasn't one wrong choice of actors in this mini-series, and the settings were incredibly beautiful. 

I think my favorite thing about this movie was getting to see the marriage proposal between Edward and Eleanor instead of knowing about it off-screen. It was simplistic yet beautiful.  This is another movie I've added to my will watch again list! 

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I'll admit that this movie captured my attention because of Matthew Goode, who is one of my favorite actors. He also starred on Downton Abbey (I'm sure you're seeing a trend here).

Another peri​od drama, The Imitation Game is a 2014 movie that is set in flashbacks to WWII and in the current time of 1951. It also stars Allen Leech, Keira Knightley, and Benedict Cumberbatch who has a divine voice.

I wasn't sure if I'd like it which is why I've put off watching it, but I'm happy to say I was wrong. Matthew Goode plays a charming cad who loves the ladies. Allen Leech is a man of mystery who comes across as a peacemaker. Keira Knightley is a woman trying to make it in a man's world, and Benedict Cumberbatch is an awkward man who's never really fit in anywhere until he helps England win in the fight against the Germans. 

If you love period dramas, I encourage you to get the popcorn ready and settle in for a couple of nights of these unforgettable movies! 

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