The Gilded Age is a captivating new series that taps into the enduring fascination for period dramas. This engaging show intricately weaves the tale of the rivalry between two families embodying the contrasting “old” and “new” money of New York City at the dawn of the 20th century. At the heart of the story are the Russells, a family of new wealth who amassed their fortune through the railroad industry, and their affluent neighbors, the van Rhijns, a family of old money whose financial stability is always precarious.
While there are many period dramas that delve into similar themes as The Gilded Age, this particular series brings to light the opulence and splendor enjoyed by the wealthy during an era often romanticized in storytelling. It also contrasts these lavish lifestyles with the systemic obstacles faced by those outside the upper echelons of society throughout history. Notable films similar to The Gilded Age reveal how significant social transformations have consistently shaped the lives of families and individuals.
The Gilded Age
- Release Date
- January 24, 2022
- Network
- HBO Max
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Morgan Spector
George Russell
10 ‘Belle’ (2013)
Directed by Amma Asante
Belle is a compelling British period drama inspired by the 1779 portrait of Dido Elizabeth Belle (Gugu Mbatha-Raw). Despite the limited knowledge about Dido’s life, the narrative explores her relationship with an aspiring lawyer, John (Sam Reid), set against the backdrop of a crucial British court case that significantly contributed to the British Abolition of Slave Trade Act of 1807. Dido finds herself in a unique position, enjoying a wealthy upbringing while facing discrimination due to her race.
For those who appreciate the intricate portrayals of class in The Gilded Age, Belle also navigates the complexities of race, gender, and lineage, which affect a young woman’s status in aristocratic society. The Gilded Age reveals the story of Peggy Scott (Denée Benton), a Black writer in 19th-century New York, while Belle confronts the issues of race and belonging through Dido’s experience as a mixed-race woman. Like Marian Brook or Peggy Scott, Dido Elizabeth Belle is a young woman maneuvering through an elite society that does not entirely accept her, making her a character that audiences can easily support.
Belle
- Release Date
- May 1, 2013
- Runtime
- 105 Minutes
9 ‘Downton Abbey’ (2019)
Directed by Michael Engler
Downton Abbey continues the legacy of the acclaimed period drama in a unique way. The film follows the Crawley family as they prepare to host a royal visit during a tour by the royal family. The Crawleys are faced with the challenge of deciding the fate of their estate while navigating their own personal and social dilemmas. Downton Abbey marks the first of three films that extend the narrative of the beloved TV series, symbolizing the beginning of the conclusion for these iconic characters.
With the original series created by Julian Fellowes, who also penned the script for Downton Abbey, it is easy to see why fans of The Gilded Age would find much to appreciate in this movie. Much like the original series, Downton Abbey examines how everyday families managed to navigate through significant periods of social upheaval. Both The Gilded Age and Downton Abbey explore the evolution of institutions, such as the British monarchy, as they adapt to survive.
Downton Abbey
- Release Date
- September 12, 2019
- Runtime
- 122 minutes
8 ‘Little Women’ (1994)
Directed by Gillian Armstrong
Little Women stands out as one of several adaptations of Louisa May Alcott‘s classic novel. This film introduces viewers to Meg (Trini Alvarado), Jo (Winona Ryder), Beth (Claire Danes), and Amy (Kirsten Dunst) March, four sisters navigating their lives in Massachusetts during the American Civil War. Little Women is a poignant coming-of-age narrative that captures the sisters’ journeys as they each encounter love, ambition, hardship, and personal growth.
Even though Little Women is set before the events of The Gilded Age, it explores comparable themes, particularly the struggles women face in patriarchal societies. Both Little Women and The Gilded Age feature intricate female protagonists who contend with the limitations imposed by their societies. Viewers who appreciate Peggy’s aspiration as a journalist in The Gilded Age will also find Jo’s determination to pursue a writing career relatable. Both women strive to assert their voices in a world that often marginalizes them.
Little Women
- Release Date
- December 21, 1994
- Runtime
- 115 minutes
7 ‘Colette’ (2018)
Directed by Wash Westmoreland
Colette narrates the true story of Sidonie-Gabrielle Colette (Keira Knightley</strong), a young woman from rural France who engages in an affair with a man known as Willy (Dominic West). The film chronicles Colette’s transformation from a naive country girl to a pioneering writer who initially publishes popular novels under Willy’s name. Throughout her life, Colette defies societal expectations regarding gender and sexuality, striving to gain recognition as an author in her own right.
Colette serves as another narrative that resonates with the themes of The Gilded Age, showcasing the historical challenges women have faced. Both stories feature protagonists who challenge the rigid societal norms of their eras in their pursuit of authenticity. Fans of Bertha’s (Carrie Coon) quest for social elevation or Marian’s (Louisa Jacobson) subtle defiance will appreciate Colette’s evolution from a submissive spouse to a cultural icon.
Colette
- Release Date
- September 21, 2018
- Runtime
- 112 Minutes
6 ‘The Age of Innocence’ (1993)
Directed by Martin Scorsese
The Age of Innocence is a poignant romantic drama, introducing Newland Archer (Daniel Day-Lewis), a prominent attorney in New York society who finds himself torn between two women. May Welland (Winona Ryder) represents the traditional and socially acceptable choice, while Archer’s fascination grows for Countess Ellen Olenska (Michelle Pfeiffer), who has become a social pariah after divorcing her husband.
For those who admire The Gilded Age and its exploration of forbidden love, reminiscent of the challenges faced by characters like Gladys (Taissa Farmiga), The Age of Innocence delves deeply into these complex relationships. Both narratives scrutinize the hypocrisy and power dynamics of high society. While The Gilded Age illustrates the clash between new wealth and traditional values, The Age of Innocence highlights the rigid constraints imposed by those very traditions on emotions, reputation, and ambition, particularly for women.
Hester Street
- Release Date
- 1975
- Runtime
- 90 Minutes
4 ‘Hello, Dolly!’ (1969)
Directed by Gene Kelly
Hello, Dolly! is a delightful musical and romantic comedy that centers on Dolly Levi (Barbra Streisand), who travels to Yonkers, New York, with the aim of finding a match for the affluent Horace Vandergelder (Walter Matthau). Ambrose Kemper (Danny Lockin), a young artist, desires to marry Horace’s niece Ermengarde (Joyce Ames). Dolly’s efforts result in several romantic pairings, orchestrated through grand entrances, vibrant musical numbers, and meaningful gestures.
Both Hello, Dolly! and The Gilded Age are set in the same time and place, yet they offer vastly different tones. For fans of The Gilded Age seeking a more romanticized view of this era, Hello, Dolly! provides an ideal alternative. While Hello, Dolly! epitomizes the romanticized vision of the Gilded Age, The Gilded Age presents a more sobering representation of this transformative period in American history.
Hello, Dolly!
- Release Date
- December 16, 1969
- Runtime
- 146 Minutes
3 ‘Ragtime’ (1981)
Directed by Miloš Forman
Ragtime is an adaptation of the novel of the same name by E.L. Doctorow, depicting the convergence of wealthy white elites, struggling immigrants, and Black Americans amidst the social turbulence of the era. The film introduces Coalhouse Walker Jr. (Howard Rollins), a proud and gifted Black pianist whose pursuit of justice following a racially motivated assault culminates in a tragic confrontation with authorities. Ragtime serves as a profound exploration of what it means to be a nation at a crossroads, questioning whether the American Dream is attainable for all.
Ragtime expands upon themes introduced in The Gilded Age, tackling issues of race, class, and power in America during this transformative period. For viewers of The Gilded Age seeking narratives that reflect the experiences of those outside the luxurious Fifth Avenue mansions, Ragtime delivers. Both stories challenge audiences to contemplate the inclusivity of the American Dream and whether it truly exists.
