10 Shows and Movies Similar to Velvet (2014)

Description: While 'The Borgias' is more political and violent than 'Velvet', both series are lavish period dramas with intricate costumes and sets. They explore themes of power, family, and ambition, though 'The Borgias' does so in a more ruthless context. The emotional tone of both shows is intense, with a focus on complex character dynamics.

Fact: 'The Borgias' was created by Neil Jordan, the acclaimed director of 'The Crying Game'. The series stars Jeremy Irons as Pope Alexander VI. It was filmed in Hungary and features many real historical locations.

Description: Like 'Velvet', 'Downton Abbey' is a period drama that explores the lives of both the wealthy and their servants, set against the backdrop of a grand estate. Both series delve into themes of love, ambition, and social hierarchy, with a strong focus on character development and intricate relationships. The visual aesthetics of both shows are lush and detailed, capturing the elegance of their respective time periods.

Fact: 'Downton Abbey' was created by Julian Fellowes, who also wrote the screenplay for 'Gosford Park'. The series won numerous awards, including three Golden Globes and 15 Primetime Emmy Awards. The show's success led to a feature film in 2019 and a sequel in

Description: Similar to 'Velvet', 'Mr Selfridge' is set in a glamorous department store and explores the personal and professional lives of its employees. Both series blend historical events with fictional drama, emphasizing the transformative power of retail and fashion. The shows also share a focus on strong female characters navigating a male-dominated world.

Fact: 'Mr Selfridge' is based on the life of Harry Gordon Selfridge, the American founder of Selfridges department store in London. Jeremy Piven, known for his role in 'Entourage', stars as the titular character. The series was praised for its accurate depiction of early 20th-century London.

Description: 'The Paradise' shares with 'Velvet' a setting in a luxurious department store, focusing on the lives of the employees and the romantic and professional challenges they face. Both series highlight the changing roles of women in society and the allure of retail and fashion in their respective eras. The storytelling is rich with drama and romance, set against beautifully recreated historical backdrops.

Fact: 'The Paradise' is based on the novel 'Au Bonheur des Dames' by Émile Zola. The series was filmed in a real historic building in Dundee, Scotland. It was one of the first BBC period dramas to be set in the Victorian era but focus on commerce rather than aristocracy.

Description: 'Reign' and 'Velvet' both blend historical settings with romantic drama, though 'Reign' focuses on royalty while 'Velvet' centers on a department store. Both series emphasize the struggles and triumphs of their female protagonists, with a mix of personal and political intrigue. The visual style of both shows is opulent, with attention to period detail.

Fact: 'Reign' is loosely based on the life of Mary, Queen of Scots. The series was known for its modern soundtrack, despite its historical setting. Adelaide Kane, who plays Mary, is also known for her role in 'Teen Wolf'.

Description: 'Versailles' and 'Velvet' share a focus on luxury, fashion, and the lives of those who inhabit grand settings. Both series are visually stunning, with meticulous attention to costume and set design. The themes of love, power, and betrayal are central to both, though 'Versailles' has a more political edge.

Fact: 'Versailles' was one of the most expensive French television series ever produced. The series was filmed at the actual Palace of Versailles and other historic locations. It was created by Simon Mirren and David Wolstencroft, who have worked on shows like 'Criminal Minds' and 'Spooks'.

Description: 'The Cook of Castamar' and 'Velvet' both blend romance and drama in a historical setting, with a focus on the lives of those who serve the wealthy. Both series explore themes of love, class, and personal growth, with lush production design and costumes. The emotional tone is similarly heartfelt and dramatic.

Fact: 'The Cook of Castamar' is based on the novel by Fernando J. Múñez. The series was a major hit in Spain and internationally. It features a diverse cast, including actors from Spain, Mexico, and Argentina.

Description: 'The Time in Between' and 'Velvet' both feature strong female protagonists navigating love and career in mid-20th century settings. Both series highlight the importance of fashion and design, with 'The Time in Between' focusing on a seamstress who becomes a spy. The emotional tone is similarly dramatic and romantic.

Fact: 'The Time in Between' is based on the bestselling novel by María Dueñas. The series was a huge hit in Spain and internationally. It was filmed in multiple countries, including Spain, Portugal, and Morocco.

Description: 'Cable Girls' and 'Velvet' are both Spanish period dramas set in the early to mid-20th century, focusing on the lives of working women. Both series explore themes of female empowerment, romance, and societal change. The visual aesthetics are similarly stylish, with a focus on the fashion and design of the era.

Fact: 'Cable Girls' was one of Netflix's first Spanish original series. The show was initially planned for only two seasons but was extended due to its popularity. It stars Blanca Suárez, who is also known for her role in 'The Time in Between'.

Description: 'High Seas' and 'Velvet' share a focus on mystery and romance in a glamorous setting, though 'High Seas' is set on a luxury ocean liner. Both series feature strong female leads and intricate plots involving love and betrayal. The period settings are richly detailed, with a similar emphasis on style and atmosphere.

Fact: 'High Seas' is also known as 'Alta Mar' in Spanish. The series was created by Ramón Campos, who also worked on 'Grand Hotel'. It was filmed in various locations, including Madrid and the Canary Islands.