We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all of our shows hold a special place in our hearts. We here at GBH have a deep fondness for all the lovely British series, especially the ones brought to us by our friends at MASTERPIECE ... except when we’re marking the 250th anniversary of America’s Declaration of Independence from Great Britain. So this week, we’re focusing on some of our favorite dramas that aren’t set in the United Kingdom.
Absolved from All Allegiance to the British Crown,
Jackie Bruleigh, Local Digital Content Editor
USA! USA! USA!
Turn: Washington’s Spies
We all know about Benedict Arnold, but did you know the spying went both ways? This show is based on the real-life Culper Spy Ring that uncovered details of surprise attacks, counterfeit currency, and more.
MASTERPIECE Little Women
Little Women is one of the great American classics, set in Concord, Mass., and this charming adaptation also features Angela Lansbury and Maya Hawke in her breakout role.
Jamestown
Set during the early 1600s and telling the story of women who volunteered to marry isolated early settlers of Jamestown, this show is extremely juicy and fun, without shying away from the dark reality of colonization and misogyny. The cast is outstanding, and folks who miss the Duke on Miss Scarlet will be happy to learn that Stuart Martin is one of the main characters.
MASTERPIECE Poldark
Yes, ok, this show is set in Cornwall, but the series literally starts with the main character getting knocked out in a skirmish with the Continental Army. If Ross and the rest of the redcoats hadn’t gotten their butts kicked in the U.S., he wouldn’t have that fetching scar, AND none of the messy drama that drives this show would have happened, so I’m including it. Sorry, not sorry!
Honorable Mentions
They’re not from the United States, but I would be remiss if I didn’t call attention to two really great Canadian programs in our lineup. First up: Frankie Drake Mysteries, which follows a lady crime-solving team operating in the 1920s. The vibes don’t get more fun than that!
Second, Little Bird, an intense family drama following a woman who was forcibly removed from her family during The Sixties Scoop, a period when the Canadian government took Indigenous children from their families and placed them with white adoptive parents.
Everyone Say, “Merci, France”
As any history buff can tell you, America owes some of our success in gaining independence to our allies in France. For that reason, the next section is dedicated to a sampling of French series. To paraphrase Hamilton, everyone give it up for America’s favorite fighting French shows (all presented in French with English subtitles thanks to Walter Presents):
Mademoiselle Holmes
Charlie is a timid French police officer living with her grandfather — until an accident awakens in her the deductive brilliance and bold spirit of her famous ancestor, Sherlock Holmes.
Bardot
Meet the woman who became the iconic French superstar: Brigitte Bardot. Young and free, her early years saw her struggle with newfound fame and the search for her true self.
Bonfire of Destiny
In 1897 Paris, a blaze at the Bazar de la Charité kills over 100 and shatters lives. From the ashes, three women rise: an aristocrat escaping a cruel marriage, a young heiress trapped by family duty, and her maid who is seeking freedom.
Paris Murders
Intuitive profiler Chloe Saint-Laurent solves the most puzzling cases with the Paris homicide division in this suspenseful and fast-paced series based on actual criminal cases.
Recipe of the Week
Crispy Fish Sandwiches with Tartar Sauce on America’s Test Kitchen
No matter what side of the pond you call home, U.S. or U.K., I think we can all agree that fried fish is delicious?
Even More Drama
* Marble Hall Murders, the third part of the series that also includes Magpie Murders and Moonflower Murders, will be on our screens in September. As a huge fan of the main character’s personal style, I will be seated. In the meantime, here’s a preview trailer!
* Who’s a good boy? Grantchester’s top dog Dickens, of course. Take a trip down memory lane with this adorable canine actor.
* Need a little more Miss Scarlet in your life? You’re in luck: an original book set in the world of Miss Scarlet will be out this month. Check out an excerpt here!
Dive Into America 250
Promises of the Revolution Screening & Discussion
This event celebrates the power of narrative and storytelling to offer a fresh perspective on the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, reimagines our democracy, and brings communities together. The four Promises of the Revolution films chronicle the efforts of present-day Massachusetts residents — from Marblehead to Mashpee — to hold the nation and themselves to the ideals that birthed the Revolution.
Off Topic
1. New show alert! In Common: News from the Berkshires to the Bay has just premiered.
2. Revisit this ANTIQUES ROADSHOW appraisal of a David Hockney print.
3. The host of the “New England Legends” podcast tells the tale of one of the most famous alien abduction stories of all time.
