In a world full of real-life drama, it’s comforting to know you can always count on a well-made period drama to transport you to another time. Whether it’s sweeping estates, forbidden love, or a family scandal or two, these stories offer pure escapism.
So, grab a cup of tea and a notepad, because this month’s list of must-watch dramas includes something for every mood, whether you want something new to binge or an old favourite to revisit.
At the Movies: Downton Abbey’s Grand Farewell
For anyone who loves the big screen and a little nostalgia, Downton Abbey: A New Era is a must. The third and reportedly final film in the much-loved series brings us back to the Crawley estate for one more round of glamour, gossip, and grace.
This chapter focuses on Lady Mary as she navigates new challenges and changing times. While some fans have called it a gentler ending than expected, the exquisite costumes, breathtaking sets, and familiar sense of British elegance make it worth every minute.
Where to watch: Downton Abbey: A New Era is available to rent on Apple TV and Prime Video.
A Hidden Gem: Diamonds
If you enjoy discovering international gems, Diamonds is a must-see. Set in 1970s Italy, it follows a group of women working in a costume workshop for the film industry. It’s a story about friendship, creativity, and resilience, with all the flair and warmth that Italian storytelling is known for.
I came across Diamonds at the Italian Film Festival, and it completely charmed me. It captures the spirit of a generation of women who laughed, struggled, and dreamed together, often over food and fashion.
Where to watch: Diamonds screened at the Italian Film Festival and is expected to arrive on SBS On Demand and Stan later this year.
A Bit of Irish History: Guinness
Confession time, I thought Guinness was just a beer. Turns out, it’s also one of the most captivating new dramas of the year.
Guinness has everything you could want in a period series: forbidden romance, family tension, and the rich backdrop of nineteenth-century Ireland. Loosely inspired by true events surrounding the famous brewing family, it’s full of lush costumes, sweeping landscapes, and the kind of storytelling that keeps you watching long after bedtime.
The countryside scenes were filmed in Wales, while the interiors were brought to life at Space Studios in Manchester, giving the series both authenticity and polish.
Where to watch: Guinness is now streaming on Paramount+.
International Flavour: The Lady’s Companion
For those who enjoy European storytelling and don’t mind subtitles, Lady Companion is a delightful escape. Set in Madrid in the mid-1800s, the series mixes scandal, humour, and romance, following a young woman whose life takes unexpected turns in a world of rigid rules and hidden desires.
It’s whimsical, beautifully costumed, and not afraid to push boundaries, including a daring same-sex romance that adds a modern twist to the genre.
Where to watch: Lady Companion is streaming on Netflix with English subtitles.
Classic Crime Revival: Murder, She Wrote Returns
Nostalgia lovers, take note. Murder, She Wrote is making a comeback in 2025.
The original series, led by the late Angela Lansbury, became a television staple throughout the 1980s and 1990s, following amateur detective and mystery writer Jessica Fletcher as she solved crimes in her quaint New England town.
The reboot will see Jamie Lee Curtis step into the iconic role, joined by Tom Selleck and George Clooney. It’s already being called “the comeback television didn’t know it needed,” bringing together three legends for a reimagining that promises wit, warmth, and nostalgia in equal measure.
Where to watch: The new Murder, She Wrote is expected to stream on Binge or Foxtel in Australia after its US release on Peacock in 2025.
From English manors to Italian workshops and Irish breweries, these stories remind us why period dramas continue to capture our hearts. They offer a window into the past, a mirror for our present, and a comforting reminder that no matter the era, love, loss, and resilience are timeless.
So settle in, press play, and let yourself be transported.
Proudly Australian owned and operated