Dearest gentle readers, Netflix has released the first half of the latest season of “Bridgerton.”
Based on the book series of the same name by Julia Quinn, the show follows the Bridgerton family. Each season typically focuses on a different sibling and their journey for love. For the fourth season, it’s Benedict’s turn to take the stage, following a slightly different order than the books.
The focus is all on actor Luke Thompson as Benedict, as well as newcomer Yerin Ha as Sophie Baek, a maid and Benedict’s love interest. This season mirrors a classic Cinderella story, complete with a cruel stepmother and stepsister, a midnight deadline to run home and a desperate prince searching for his mysterious love.
I have to confess, I didn’t enjoy just how much the “Cinderella” story was used. It could have been just as effective without the mean stepfamily. But, since the storyline stems from the novels, this is more my critique of the book series than the new season.
In terms of casting, Thompson is very handsome, and he plays the rakish brother well. He certainly has a kind of charm that makes his character more appealing. Although I have to admit, Benedict’s struggle to find the mystery girl, and feeling devastated that he can’t, is one I have a difficult time drawing empathy for.
On the other hand, Ha as Sophie is incredible. Coming into a show of this size for a later season, when most of the actors have known each other for years, has to be daunting, even more so considering intimate scenes. But, if Ha was intimidated, she didn’t let it affect her performance. She pulled off her character with so much confidence, dignity and restraint that it was perfect.
Ruth Gemmell as Lady Violet Bridgerton, the mother of the siblings, was also incredible. Even though it’s frustrating to watch her play matchmaker to her kids, you can tell it comes from her wanting them to have what she had with her late husband. All this while trying to have a new relationship with her best friend’s brother, whom she’s trying to be discreet about, is a lot to portray, and she nails it.
I’d also like to mention that the sibling relationship between Eloise and Hyacinth this season is very relatable. As Hyacinth, the youngest daughter, prepares to make her debut, Eloise remains as determined as ever to avoid society. This contradiction creates a really tense sibling dynamic. The struggle of Hyacinth trying to connect with a sister she has practically nothing in common with is so devastating.
In typical “Bridgerton” fashion, as soon as a sibling is married and completes their storyline, they gradually disappear from the show. This happened to the actors who played Daphne and the Duke, and notably absent this season, Anthony and Kate. This also seems to be what’s going to happen to Colin, as he is barely in this season so far. Many past characters are gone or barely there.
However, I wanted to shoutout to the cast members playing servants! They are the real stars of this season, showing they are more than just servants. They are people who support each other and know their worth.
I also feel it’s worth mentioning that the scene where the Queen tells Lady Danbury, “You are my subject,” after all their years of friendship, is a bit similar to the scene in “Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story” when the King shouts, “I am your king,” at Charlotte.
So far, this season has followed the show’s classic pattern, and people are enjoying it. Watching Benedict try to find his dream girl while being lost in his own world is certainly something. It’s not a long wait until the rest of the season comes out Feb. 26. Let’s all hope Benedict makes up for his ridiculous request from the last episode…
