With fans of period dramas like Bridgerton eagerly awaiting new seasons, many are seeking out other compelling series to fill the void. One such show that has recently captured attention is the BBC’s 2003 drama, Servants. This six-episode series, set in an 1850s English country house, delves into the complex and often scandalous lives of the domestic staff. Praised by viewers as a “total hidden gem,” Servants offers a unique perspective on Victorian England, moving beyond the typical somber portrayals to reveal a more vibrant and relatable era.
A Bold and Irreverent Look at Victorian Staff
Servants distinguishes itself by focusing on the household staff, a group often overlooked in historical dramas. The series paints a vivid picture of their daily lives, complete with secrets, ambitions, and personal dramas. The cast features notable performances, including Joe Absolom as the second footman, Orla Brady as the housekeeper, Christopher Fulford as the head butler, Kenny Doughty as the first footman, and Felicity Jones in the dual role of nursemaid and housemaid.
The show’s creator, Lucy Gannon, known for her work on acclaimed series such as Soldier, Hope and Glory, and Insiders, aimed to capture a less-explored facet of the Victorian age. Gannon noted that the period before Queen Victoria’s extended mourning for Prince Albert was marked by a less severe atmosphere than commonly perceived. “There wasn’t that air of po-facedness about this time, the sort of pious uprightness that we think of as typically Victorian,” she explained. This allowed for a portrayal of the era that was more dynamic and less constrained by the image of perpetual solemnity.
Relatable Characters and Colorful Language
A key aspect that resonates with viewers is the show’s depiction of ordinary people. Gannon highlighted how, despite the significant social and economic limitations of the 1850s, the characters exhibit traits remarkably similar to people today. “What is a real eye-opener is how very similar ordinary people were to us today,” she stated. “Despite social and economic restrictions, they were fun, loving and aspirational.” The dialogue, too, is noted for its authenticity and energy, often featuring colorful language and even swear words, which Gannon found surprisingly enduring. “Their language is colourful and energetic, splattered with swear words. It is notable how many choice words haven’t changed over the years!” she remarked.
Fan Comparisons and Enduring Appeal
Online discussions reveal a strong appreciation for Servants, with many fans actively recommending it to others. Some viewers have drawn comparisons to the popular drama Downton Abbey, with a few expressing a preference for Servants. One fan described it as a “total hidden gem” that they have watched multiple times, appreciating its blend of comedy, heartfelt moments, and occasional bleakness, which they felt offered a more nuanced experience than some modern series.
The sentiment of discovering a beloved, yet overlooked, series is echoed by many. “It focuses more on comedy than drama, but it has a heart and a fair share of bleak moments you won’t find in a more modern series. I absolutely adored it, it’s a total hidden gem. I have watched it twice through now, and I can’t get enough,” shared one enthusiast. Another viewer lamented the lack of further seasons, stating, “I stumbled upon not that long ago and had never heard it either. I thought it was great as well and really wished they made a lot more seasons.” The desire for more content is a common theme, with another fan adding, “It’s one of my favorites! I wish there was a second season.”
Mixed Reactions and Accessibility
While the reception has been overwhelmingly positive, not all viewers connected with the series. Some found it difficult to engage with, citing issues with the dialogue and character development. “I think a combination of terrible, too modern-sounding dialogue and characters I have zero interest in,” one viewer commented, indicating that the show’s unique style didn’t resonate with everyone. However, for those who appreciate its distinct approach, Servants offers a rewarding viewing experience.
For those interested in exploring this critically acclaimed period drama, the entire series of Servants is available to stream for free, supported by advertisements, on the streaming platform Tubi. Its availability provides an excellent opportunity for new audiences to discover why this 2003 BBC production is considered such a standout, albeit hidden, gem in the genre.
