10 Movies and Shows Similar to The Forsyte Saga (2002)

Description: Like The Forsyte Saga (2002), Downton Abbey is a period drama that explores the lives of an aristocratic family and their servants, delving into themes of class, inheritance, and societal change. Both series are rich in historical detail and feature complex character relationships.

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 two feature films, Downton Abbey (2019) and Downton Abbey: A New Era (2022).

Description: Parade's End, like The Forsyte Saga (2002), is a British period drama based on a literary work (by Ford Madox Ford) that explores the decline of the aristocracy and the impact of war on society. Both series feature intricate love triangles and a meticulous attention to period detail.

Fact: Parade's End stars Benedict Cumberbatch and Rebecca Hall. The series was written by Tom Stoppard, one of Britain's most celebrated playwrights. It was produced by HBO and the BBC, marking a rare collaboration between the two networks.

Description: The Paradise, similar to The Forsyte Saga (2002), is a period drama that focuses on ambition, love, and social mobility, though set in a department store rather than an aristocratic family. Both series highlight the changing social dynamics of their respective eras.

Fact: The Paradise is based on the novel Au Bonheur des Dames by Émile Zola. The series was the BBC's response to ITV's Mr Selfridge, both set in department stores. It was cancelled after two seasons despite strong ratings.

Description: Poldark, like The Forsyte Saga (2002), is a sweeping historical drama that combines romance, family drama, and social commentary. Both series are set in the past and feature charismatic leads navigating love and societal expectations.

Fact: Poldark is based on the novels by Winston Graham. The 2015 series is actually the second adaptation, following a 1970s version. Aidan Turner, who plays Ross Poldark, became famous for his shirtless scything scenes, which sparked much media attention.

Description: The Gilded Age shares with The Forsyte Saga (2002) a focus on wealth, power, and family dynamics in a historical setting. Both series depict the clash between old money and new money, and the societal changes that come with industrialization.

Fact: The Gilded Age is created by Julian Fellowes, marking his return to period drama after Downton Abbey. The series is set in 1880s New York City and features a star-studded cast including Christine Baranski and Cynthia Nixon. It was originally developed for NBC before moving to HBO.

Description: The Durrells, while lighter in tone than The Forsyte Saga (2002), shares its focus on family dynamics and adaptation to change. Both series are based on literary works and feature strong character development against a historical backdrop.

Fact: The Durrells is based on Gerald Durrell's autobiographical Corfu Trilogy. The series was filmed on location in Corfu, Greece. Keeley Hawes, who plays the matriarch Louisa Durrell, received critical acclaim for her performance.

Description: Victoria shares with The Forsyte Saga (2002) a focus on British history and the personal lives of its characters within a grand historical narrative. Both series offer a blend of personal drama and historical events, with lavish production values.

Fact: Victoria stars Jenna Coleman as the young Queen Victoria. The series was created by Daisy Goodwin, who also wrote the screenplay. Many of the episodes are named after pieces of classical music, reflecting Victoria's own love of music.

Description: Belgravia, like The Forsyte Saga (2002), is a historical drama that revolves around secrets, scandals, and the lives of the upper class. Both series are based on novels (Belgravia by Julian Fellowes) and feature a mix of personal and societal conflicts.

Fact: Belgravia was created by Julian Fellowes, the same writer behind Downton Abbey. The series was initially released as an audiobook before being adapted for television. It explores the hidden world behind the grand facades of 19th-century London.

Description: Lark Rise to Candleford, like The Forsyte Saga (2002), is a period drama that explores the contrasts between different social classes. Both series are based on literary works and offer a detailed portrayal of rural and urban life in their respective periods.

Fact: Lark Rise to Candleford is based on Flora Thompson's semi-autobiographical trilogy. The series was praised for its authentic depiction of Victorian England. Julia Sawalha, known for her role in Absolutely Fabulous, stars as the lead character Dorcas Lane.

Description: Upstairs, Downstairs shares with The Forsyte Saga (2002) a focus on the dichotomy between the lives of the wealthy and their servants. Both series are set in the early 20th century and examine the impact of historical events on personal lives.

Fact: Upstairs, Downstairs was created by actresses Jean Marsh and Eileen Atkins. The original series ran for five seasons and won seven Emmy Awards. A revival series was produced in 2010, set in the same house but with a new family and servants.