What's it about?
Set in late 18th century England, it follows the story of Ross Poldark - a gentleman who returned from war to his hometown in Cornwall and found his father dead, mines in ruin and his bride - engaged to his cousin. Based on Winston Graham’s novels Poldark.
Why watch it?
If you're a fan of British period drama and tv series based around one family; for the landscapes; easy to watch, but with some plot twists; for topless Aidan Turner.
Stars
Ratings
8,4 on IMDb
87% on Rotten Tomatoes
Critics Reception
It’s the kind of show in which every plot twist appears to require a shot of someone pounding on horseback along the Cornish coast, close to the cliffs and outlined against the sun.
The New York Times
The series is generally widely approved by both the critics and the general audiences for its interesting storyline, compelling characters and talented, as well as lesser-known before the show, actors.
Historical Background
The series is based on the novels by Winston Graham - which use a lot of historical facts as accurate background for the events taking place in the books. Although the characters in the story are fictional, they are inspired by real people, unconventional marriages of people from different social classes and the importance of mining industry in Cornwall.
Reviews
Review: ‘Poldark’ on PBS’s ‘Masterpiece’, The New York Times
All articles and reviews of various seasons of Poldark on The Independent
TV Review: Poldark, Variety
Poldark’s Cornwall: the history behind the hit series, History Extra