The period drama is streaming on Netflix that viewers are hailing as an ‘addictive masterpiece’ – and some are even saying it’s better than Downton Abbey and Bridgerton.
The series has left viewers utterly captivated (Image: Buendía Estudios)
When it comes to period dramas brimming with romance, intrigue, passion, and a captivating storyline, few series can hold a candle to Downton Abbey and Bridgerton.
Both programmes have masterfully established their own corner of the market in sultry, steamy historical dramas, packed with gripping plot twists guaranteed to keep viewers thoroughly hooked.
Fortunately, we’ve discovered another hidden gem within the same genre that is sure to leave you spellbound and desperate for more as you power through all 12 episodes currently available to stream on Netflix.
The Cook of Castamar, originally titled La cocinera de Castamar, is a Spanish period drama adapted from the novel of the same name by author Fernando J. Muñez.
The series consists of 12 episodes, each running for approximately 50 minutes.
The ‘enthralling’ series is streaming on Netflix (Image: Buendía Estudios)
Praised by audiences as ‘absolutely exceptional’, the series stars Michelle Jenner and Roberto Enríquez in the principal roles. The talented pair are joined by Hugo Silva, María Hervás, Fiorella Faltoyano, Jean Cruz, and Paula Usero, who together form an impressively gifted ensemble cast, according to the Liverpool Echo.
Brought to the small screen by Tatiana Rodríguez and co-directed by Iñaki Peñafiel and Norberto López Amado, the costume drama’s official synopsis reads: “Set in early-18th-century Madrid, the plot follows the love story between an agoraphobic cook and a widowed nobleman.”
The series was filmed on location in Madrid, Cuenca, and Segovia, with the Duke’s palace, Castamar, depicted by Madrid’s Palacio del Infante Don Luis in Boadilla del Monte.
The show has earned widespread acclaim from viewers, with one IMDB user review saying: “Absolutely Exceptional! One of the most beautiful period piece shows I’ve seen. I dare say it may be better than Downtown Abbey (yup I said it).
The 12-part series has been hailed as a ‘masterpiece’ by audiences (Image: Buendía Estudios)
“The storytelling, plot twists, set design, costumes, cinematography, music, and acting are stunning; all world class film making/entertainment at its very best.”
Another fan added: “Fantastic! The series never dragged , for 12 episodes. It kept me on the edge of my seat the whole way. Romance, villains, gorgeous setting, beautiful clothes. What more could you ask?”.
One review said: “It is a mesmerizing and exquisite show. I had to watch it second time to capture all the plots. Highly recommend it. Hope there will be a Season 2.”
A further IMDB reviewer wrote: “Enrapturing! ! This series is absolutely sublime! I loved every moment. This is absolutely an epic romance that I will watch over and over again.”
One delighted fan posted on IMDB: “Just brilliant. There aren’t many movies that would get a 10 from me, but this is one of them.
“Totally addictive, subtle, tender, full of twists, with beautiful costumes and heart-grabbing music by Ivan Palomares… so glad I found this masterpiece. This show will be on the binge list for a while.”
The Cook of Castamar is currently available to watch on Netflix.
