As a fan of period dramas, romances, and lavish settings, I’ve enjoyed the Bridgerton series on Netflix, but I’ve had my criticisms. When the trailer for Queen Charlotte was released, I was excited to explore the racial union of Bridgerton’s fictional society and the mystery of King George’s condition. Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story is a compelling, captivating romance with a background of important social change.
First, let’s discuss Charlotte and George’s romance. Their first meeting gave me butterflies. Currently, I think the enemies-to-lovers or haters-to-lovers trope is overdone, so it was refreshing to watch a couple who likes each other at their first meeting. Charlotte and George’s marriage is continually tested by their circumstances: pressure to conceive an heir, unite the two societies, and manage George’s health problems. The couple fights on numerous occasions, but their fights are more productive than silence would be. As Charlotte says, “I want to fight you. Fight with me. Fight for me.”
I especially loved watching Charlotte’s love endure while she learns about George’s mental health. After she discovers George’s inhumane treatments, she rescues him and declares that she cares more for his happiness and soul than his sanity. As a person with mental health issues, if someone said that to me, I would probably cry tears of joy. This plot point is a nuanced lesson on accepting others for who they are and prioritizing their happiness above all else.
Ultimately, Charlotte and George’s love story is about marriage and what it means to commit to another person for life–what makes a marriage work, what two people need to accept about each other, and how they need to support each other. I enjoyed this exploration as an alternative to the typical romance plot of two people falling in love (or rather, lust).
In addition, Queen Charlotte features a subplot of Lady Danbury fighting the Dowager Princess for her side’s rights. Her determination and strength are admirable, even when faced with a tiring husband she does not love and an unfair society. Lady Danbury is an inspiring example of a woman learning what she wants after living in the shadow of her husband.
As usual, the casting for this Bridgerton story is impeccable. The chemistry between the characters, especially Charlotte and George, is more than believable. I appreciated seeing beautiful people of many skin colors and appearances. I’m happy the casting director chose fresh faces for the lead roles to match this fresh take on an old story.
Finally, I wanted to mention the romantic subplot between Charlotte and George’s men, Brimsley and Reynolds. Although it began with a lustful scene, their love is shown to be tender and lifelong. Their scene of secretly dancing in the garden warmed my heart the most.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story and would rate it a 9/10.