26-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Netflix period drama dubbed 'new Bridgerton' thrills fans with major update
Netflix's The Empress, a historical period drama based on the life of Empress Elisabeth of Austria, was a massive hit with viewers when it premiered in September 2022
Netflix German-language historical drama, The Empress, comfortably straddles the line between (somewhat) historical inaccuracy and sheer entertainment.
The series, which is based on the life of Empress Elisabeth of Austria, stars Devrim Lingnau in the titular role, with Philip Froissant portraying Emperor Franz Joseph.
As a Netflix original, The Empress made its debut on the streaming platform on September 29, 2022. With over 150 million hours streamed, it quickly rose to become the second-most watched series globally on Netflix for two weeks, and also clinched the title of the seventh most popular non-English series of 2022.
In November 2022, Netflix greenlit a second season of The Empress, which premiered in November 2024. As of January this year, the show has been renewed for a third and final series.
In an unexpected move, Netflix also commissioned a companion novel for the show penned by Gigi Griffis, titled The Empress: A Novel, reports Surrey Live.
The Empress was created and written by Katharina Eyssen, with Bernd Lange and Janna Maria Nandzik serving as co-writers. Katrin Gebbe and Florian Cossen took on directorial duties for the series.
Despite the show's creative liberties, it remains a compelling depiction of a fascinating period in history.
The reception to the series has been largely commendable, with a mix of praise and criticism regarding its creative liberties. One reviewer said: "Fans of historical dramas will want to make time for The Empress, as its first season is truly a magnificently crafted program."
Another critic added: "The Empress tries to fill the sexy costume drama hole that Bridgerton has left between seasons."
One fan wrote: "When it comes down to it, not only does the series highlight modern themes, but The Empress does what only the very best movies and television series can do - transport you to another time and place."
While another described it as an "engaging period piece with an exceptional ensemble," further adding: "classy period drama with excellent cast.
Whereas most of the previous dramas based on this historical period have been dry and focused on war, this refreshing series highlights the problems of the Court, the personalities and the diplomacy. The English dubbing is superb. I hope this series will run for a long time. Congratulations to all involved, especially to the main cast playing Emperor Franz and Empress Elisabeth."
Additionally, another viewer said: "What can I say! I love great historical love drama shows! ! ! Great acting and marvellous set ups! The intensity of emotions are well captured, and I could almost feel the love and pain myself! Love it!".
One fan offered a tip for those planning to watch: "The Empress" is a lavish treat for romantics and armchair time travellers, best enjoyed in its original German - with subtitles if needed - for a more immersive experience. "Another viewer felt compelled to provide a slight caveat: "If you're a fan of historical fiction, drama, slow burn romance this is it.
If you're expecting high historical accuracy and a writing style that authentically reflects the thoughts and speech patterns of this era, it might not be your cup of tea. It does a good job but someone watching for realistic history could end up feeling let down."
The Empress is streaming on Netflix now.
