10 Shows & Movies Like Lillie (1978)

Description: This series follows the tumultuous life of a Cornish mine owner, blending personal drama with broader social and economic issues of 18th-century England.

Fact: The original 1970s adaptation was a massive hit, with its brooding hero and sweeping landscapes captivating audiences. It was one of the first British period dramas to achieve international success.

Description: A poignant exploration of class conflict, family dynamics, and personal relationships in Edwardian England, this film captures the tensions between tradition and modernity with a nuanced and emotional narrative.

Fact: The film is based on E.M. Forster's novel of the same name and was critically acclaimed for its screenplay and performances. It won three Academy Awards, including Best Actress for Emma Thompson.

Description: This adaptation of George Eliot's novel delves into themes of identity, love, and social responsibility, set against the backdrop of Victorian England's rigid class structures.

Fact: The miniseries was notable for its faithful adaptation of Eliot's complex narrative and its exploration of Jewish identity, a rare focus in period dramas of the time.

Description: This series masterfully depicts the lives of an aristocratic family and their servants, focusing on the social changes and personal struggles that arise in the post-Edwardian era.

Fact: Downton Abbey became a global phenomenon, with its final episode attracting over 10 million viewers in the UK alone. It won numerous awards, including Golden Globes and Emmys.

Description: Set in a glamorous Victorian department store, this series explores themes of ambition, love, and social change, with a particular focus on the lives of women navigating a rapidly evolving world.

Fact: The show is based on Émile Zola's novel 'Au Bonheur des Dames' but transposed to a British setting. It was praised for its lush visuals and strong female leads.

Description: A heartwarming portrayal of rural life in late 19th-century England, this series emphasizes community, resilience, and the simple joys and sorrows of everyday people.

Fact: Based on Flora Thompson's semi-autobiographical novels, the show was beloved for its gentle storytelling and picturesque depiction of the English countryside.

Description: This series explores the intricate dynamics between the wealthy upper class and their servants, delving into themes of social hierarchy, personal ambition, and the changing tides of early 20th-century Britain.

Fact: The show was groundbreaking for its time, portraying the lives of servants with as much depth and dignity as those of their employers. It won multiple awards, including seven BAFTAs and an Emmy.

Description: Centered around a strong-willed woman who rises from humble beginnings to become a renowned cook and hotelier, this series highlights themes of social mobility, resilience, and the challenges faced by women in a male-dominated society.

Fact: The series was inspired by the real-life story of Rosa Lewis, a famous Edwardian cook and hotelier. It was praised for its authentic period detail and strong character development.

Description: A rich tapestry of interconnected lives in a provincial town, this series examines the constraints of society, the pursuit of personal fulfillment, and the complexities of human relationships.

Fact: Often hailed as one of the greatest British novels, this adaptation was praised for its meticulous attention to detail and its ability to capture the novel's intricate plot and deep character studies.

Description: A bold and progressive story for its time, this adaptation explores themes of independence, abuse, and redemption through the eyes of a woman fleeing a toxic marriage.

Fact: The novel by Anne Brontë was considered scandalous when first published due to its frank depiction of marital strife and alcoholism. This adaptation brought its feminist themes to a modern audience.