‘Masterful’ BBC period drama dubbed ‘the best of the best’ based on beloved novels

Period drama fans won’t want to miss one “masterful” BBC series available to stream on Netflix, and based on a beloved series of novels. Reddit users on the prowl for the best historical dramas to watch threw their support behind one series that began on the BBC before being acquired by Netflix, running for five seasons and even sparking a feature-length sequel movie.

Entitled The Last Kingdom, the series is based on Bernard Cornwell’s Saxon Stories, and originally premiered in 2015 on BBC Two. Running for 46 episodes plus a film sequel, the series stars Alexander Dreymon, Emily Cox and Tobias Santelmann.

The series begins with the arrival of the Great Heathen Army in England, developing the relationship between Vikings and Anglo-Saxons as the Ragnarssons invade.

Running from the years 866-937, the series adapts all thirteen novels from the series, and has been branded “perfect” by fans.

One reviewer called it “incredible”, writing: “The best way to describe The Last Kingdom is that it is just a flat out awesome show and a must-watch. It’s become one of my favourite shows of all time. As you can tell from the reviews and the rating this show is loved by just about everyone who's seen it.”

Someone else said: “Every season is brilliant. On top of the brilliant production, the soundtrack fits perfectly and gives me goosebumps every time I watch it. Hats off to everyone involved, this is hands down my favourite series.”

“This series is one of the best ever,” another fan chimed in. “So much happens… characters live and die, sometimes unexpectedly.”

Another review praised it: “Granted there with some license taken and that makes sense for production. However none of that detracts from what is for me one of the best series out there. The production design was great. They put a lot of effort into it and it shows.”