BritBox…An Anglophile’s Dream Come True

Not only am I a fan of British Literature, I am a huge fan of British TV shows. I always take the chance to watch (or rewatch) any shows that come from across the pond. That’s why I was ecstatic when I found about BritBox, a new streaming venture, created by the BBC and ITV, that consists of a large catalog of TV shows from these networks for US customers. For $6.99 a month, you’ll be able to watch classic episodes like Doctor Who and Fawlty Towers and modern/current episodes like EastEnders and Coronation Street. You will find hours of entertainment with this great streaming service!

And BritBox even has something for book lovers! Their video library consists of great TV shows that were adapted from books. Because honestly, who does a great literary adaptation, other than the British? Here are some great examples:

Inspector Morse (8 Seasons)

Based on the series of novels by Colin Dexter

“John Thaw stars as Inspector Morse, the Oxford detective whose intelligent, methodical approach to solving murders is only matched by his penchant for life’s finer things.”

Emma (1 season, 4 episodes)

Based on the novel Emma by Jane Austen

“Romola Garai is Jane Austen’s fickle heroine, fatally convinced she is good at matchmaking, but unaware she is playing a dangerous game that might finally force her to grow up.”

Cranford (2 seasons)

Based on the novel Cranford by Elizabeth Gaskell

“The incomparable Judi Dench stars in this story of Cranford, a small-town hub of intrigue where everyone talks – and everyone is talked about. The town is on the cusp of change, and the lives of its residents pushed ever forward”

Miss Marple (1984-1992, 10 Seasons)

*For the Agatha Christie fans!*

Based on the novel series by Agatha Christie

“Detective drama series featuring Agatha Christie’s unassuming amateur sleuth solving a series of murders.”

Jane Eyre (2006) (4 episodes)

Based on the novel by Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte

“Charlotte Bronte’s classic novel springs vibrantly to life in this lavish and slightly steamy adaptation. Ruth Wilson (Luther) made her TV debut as the titular “poor, obscure, plain and little” heroine.”

Pride and Prejudice (1995) (6 episodes)

*My favorite adaptation of all time and the best one for the novel as of yet!*

Based on the novel, Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

“Colin Firth in his wet shirt was the television moment of the 90s. This irresistible, sophisticated and sexy saga launched Firth and Jennifer Ehle to international fame and inspired a modern Jane Austen renaissance.”

Still intrigued and want some more? Well here are some further recommendation that are not based off of books but will be great for your British viewing pleasure:

1.  Doctor Who – I’m not a big fan of Doctor Who but if you are, you might be excited at the fact that BritBox has all of the classic episodes of this iconic show.
2. Fawlty Towers- John Cleese at his best.
3. A Bit of Fry and Laurie – Watch Stephen Fry and Hugh Laurie as a comedic duo! (BritBox only has the first season. You can find the entire series on Hulu.)
4. Blackadder- This show is HILARIOUS! I highly recommend this one!
5. Keeping Up Appearances 
6. The Vicar of Dibley
7. The Job Lot
8. Absolutely Fabulous
   
9.  The Office (the original)
10. Are You Being Served?

So visit BritBox and sign up for a 7-day free trial of the service. You might be leaving with your own British accent!