Look around, and period dramas seem to be everywhere now. But it has taken years for them to monopolise the entertainment sphere. However, a curious subgenre is gaining traction—television series and films that see characters in period-appropriate costumes but spouting 21st-century language, all set to the soundtrack of today's top music artists. Amazon Prime Video's My Lady Jane is the latest in a long line of these peculiar stories.
The idea of the period drama is deeply associated with British culture, with many considering it a staple of media that is here to stay. And while the Downton Abbeys of the world have brought in millions of viewers across the years, it's the Bridgertons that seem to be drawing in younger audiences particularly. These anachronistic period dramas have cemented their place in popular culture with ease. In fact, many journey overseas to also be appreciated by US audiences.
My Lady Jane takes a few leaves from the book of anachronisms and has its characters speak in present-day language, often using slang and modern colloquialisms to communicate with one another. Upon first look, no viewer would have expected any form of royalty in the 15th century to use the word “fave”, but in this series, anything goes. Several jokes also allude to the modern sense of humour, creating an intriguing and comical story—which would not usually be suspected of a series depicting the tragic story of the nine-day Queen.
Costuming may be frivolous and extravagant, just as the Tudors were known to be, but most of the colouring of their wear is not historically accurate. My Lady Jane takes liberties with history but, in doing so, makes the screen pop with colour and infuses the characters with more life and personality. However, as early as its trailers, My Lady Jane promises that the story will not be one of particular tragedy but one of love and heroism, to which it lives up.
If audiences know they aren't tuning in for a historical education, why do they continue to consume this type of period drama? They watch it for the romanticised version of events. These shows offer the allure of a bygone era, the beauty of period costumes, and the familiarity of modern language and humour. It's a way to connect with history in a way that feels fresh, accessible, and entertaining, even if it's not entirely accurate.
This twist on the traditional period drama makes history more relatable for modern audiences. The humour and language viewers understand create a bridge between the past and present, allowing audiences to engage with the story more deeply. It's a way to enjoy the aesthetics and drama of a period piece without feeling like you're sitting through a history lesson.
My Lady Jane certainly isn't the first. Bridgerton is often credited as the first to make this leap into the subgenre, but that's not strictly true. It did bring the concept of traditional covers of today's pop hits into popularity, with Doctor Who only recently borrowing the idea for its one-off Regency-era episode. However, Sophia Coppola's Marie Antoinette is filled to the brim with modern language and music, delivering a pseudo-history lesson. The film, released in 2006, is famous for including a shot of purple Converse shoes to remind audiences they are watching a young girl of just 14 years despite the overstated makeup and finery she wore. This offers a fresh perspective to viewers and helps them relate to the character in an unexpected way.
Anachronisms within period dramas have only multiplied since then. The Great and Reign also employ the use of modern language and clothing, which can only be a sign this subgenre is growing. In all instances, one of the stark reasons why it works is for the purpose of social commentary. Every film and series has something to say, and being based in certain time periods, audiences are particularly aware of the dated references to women's rights. Bridgerton, My Lady Jane, and The Great, in particular, share this. The commentary on this subject shares messages which are still relevant today, thus offering other unique insights to viewers.
While some could argue it may carry the risk of deteriorating the reputation of traditional period dramas, this is unlikely. The biggest concern is that this subgenre could become over-saturated. The entertainment industry is currently facing a decline in the quality of superhero films following the culmination of the Marvel Cinematic Universe in 2019. Many have blamed declining numbers on “superhero fatigue”—a term coined in the last five years. But this isn't the first time this has happened.
The likes of Ben Hur, Spartacus, and Cleopatra made up the swords and sandals epics of the 1950s to 60's, but these were promptly killed by the time the 80's rolled around as the world moved on. Everything has its time but as things come back into fashion, they are often injected back into the cultural aether. Not only returning but adapting is often a creatively interesting way to bring in old and new audiences. My Lady Jane does exactly this, bringing viewers a period piece laced with romance, humour, modern tropes, and even sci-fi elements.
Anachronistic period dramas are here to stay—at least for a while. Culture moves fast due to audience tastes constantly evolving, so it is media's job to chase the coattails of trends and explore new creative challenges. Whether craving courtly intrigue delivered with a side of modern-day one-liner or historical commentary veiled in lavish costumes and pop anthems, pseudo-historicism in entertainment can seemingly do it all.
