The Gilded Age Review: Perfect Escapist Piece!

Created by Julian Fellowes (creator of Downton Abbey), The Gilded Age focuses on the period from which it takes its name. This was an important and transformative period in American history. When Marian Brook’s (Louisa Jacobson) father dies leaving her penniless, her only option is to travel to New York to live with her Aunts Agnes and Ada (Christine Baranski and Cynthia Nixon). Marian is quickly thrust into a world of glamour and opulence but she must keep careful to thread the line between “old money” and “the new.

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The Gilded Age has all the trappings of a solid Victorian era drama. Complete with snobby socialites and tycoons, nosy servants and matchmaking abound. They highlight the difference between old money and new money. Old money was discreet but highly respected, tracing their lineage back to the founding of America and even the British monarchy, while new money was flamboyant and made through the wealth that came about as a result of the industrial era.

The characters are all intriguing and it’s a rare show that can make you invested in every single character’s storyline. Some are even based on real life figures from New York high society of the age. I really enjoyed the addition of Peggy’s (Denee Benton) character and storyline. She handles herself with poise and dignity even in the face of racism and sexism. She gives light to an overlooked group in New York society known as the Black Elites. I love Agnes’ sardonic wit and Ada’s cheerful optimism. They perfectly balance each other and create many entertaining scenes.

Baranski and Nixon both give great performances and are perfectly cast. As is Carrie Coon as the formidable Bertha Russell, another favourite of mine. The costumes are breathtaking. Dresses from this era were fabulous and HBO has always excelled in the costuming and set design departments. The best on TV I’d say and The Gilded Age is no exception. With a stunning set design, every set piece/prop is perfectly curated.

The issue of race is deftly handled in this series. Among the best I’ve seen. They’re able to strongly convey their message without becoming preachy or dishing out hollow reprimands. The show emphasizes the role of women in this society as dutiful mothers, wives and daughters. For these women, any work outside of charity was unthinkable. They lived a restricted life, with few freedoms or rights before marriage. My biggest area of complaint however, is that while the stories being told are entertaining, there doesn’t seem to be any particular aim. Indeed I was a little unsatisfied with how Marian’s story ended this season as I’d thought there was something much bigger brewing.

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Nonetheless, The Gilded Age is the perfect escapist piece for those who love shows like Downtown Abbey, Bridgerton, Sanditon and the like. Though I do believe this may be my personal favourite of the bunch. I got excited for a new episode each week and I impatiently await season 2. Watch ‘The Gilded Age’ on Disney+ Hotstar here.

‘The Gilded Age’ Rating – 4.5/5

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