10 educational series about historical events and periods.
Many series are based on historical facts, or at least are set in a realistic past era. I love how one can learn about history in this visual way...So here are 10 educational series and mini-series.
The Crown (2016-)
Britain during the reign of Queen Elizabeth II. Historically accurate and including events beyond the royal family as well. Great writing, costumes and set design; actors changing every two seasons to adapt to age.
Chernobyl (Mini-Series 2019)
The days before, during and after the catastrophe at Chernobyl in 1986. Gripping and shocking. Amazing acting carries this mini-series, especially by Jared Harris, Emily Watson, Stellan Skarsgard and Jessie Buckley.
The Tudors (2007-10)
A series about the reign of King Henry VIII and his complex love life, being famous for having been married six times. Showing the intrigues and difficulties at court, and how they influenced the entire country. Great acting with a cast of Jonathan Rhys-Meyers, Henry Cavill, Natalie Dormer, Jeremy Northam and many more.
Mad Men (2007-15)
Set in the advertising world of Madison Avenue in New York of the 1960ies, this series follows charismatic protagonist Don Draper. Juggling his family and successful career, he has secrets from his past clashing with his present world. Visualizing the complex world of the era like no other series. Also, Jon Hamm and Elizabeth Moss are fantastic.
Downton Abbey (2010-15)
Fictional tale of an Earl's family and their servants in England. Early twentieth century, showing all kinds of historical events such as war as well as the arrival of new technologies such as the telephone. Worth watching even just for Dame Maggie Smith and her great lines.
When They See Us (Mini-Series 2019)
Based on the real criminal case of the Central Park Five, a group of teenagers from Harlem who were pressured into confessing crimes they had not committed. Spanning several decades from youth to adulthood of the victims. Urgent and sadly still current.
Peaky Blinders (2013-)
A family of criminals with gypsy ancestry in Birmingham after WWI. Brutal at times, but very well written and shot, with a mesmerising soundtrack and guest stars such as Adrien Brody and Tom Hardy. Lives from Cillian Murphy's performance and cheekbones.
The Marvellous Mrs. Maisel (2017-)
A Jewish housewife in New York of the 1960ies decides to become a stand-up comedian after her life falls apart. A universe of its own, with hilarious comedy and a Rachel Brosnahan in the role of her career. A stellar supporting cast (Alex Borstein, Jane Lynch, Michael Zegen and Tony Shalhoub) wins all the awards every year for a reason.
Boardwalk Empire (2010-14)
Created by Martin Scorsese, this gangster series follows a politician with ties to the mob in Atlantic City during the Prohibition. Visually stunning and as good as any Scorsese movie. Includes some of my favourite character actors such as Michael Shannon, Michael Stuhlbarg, Jack Huston, Shea Wigham, and a great ensemble cast overall.
The Bletchley Circle (2012-14)
Set in England in the 1950ies, a group of former code breakers from Bletchley Park are leading normal lives. They reunite to solve crimes, bringing their unique talents together once more. Showing post-war Britain and smart women, with some WW2 memories coming up.
(Images: IMDB)