Masterpiece BBC period drama based on book is 'best of all time'

A BBC period drama based on one of Charles Dickens' novels has been voted the "best BBC period drama" of all time. Stylist gave Little Dorrit the honour, along with two others, and it is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.

Little Dorrit is a British miniseries based on Charles Dickens's serial novel of the same title, which first aired in 2008. The screenplay was written by Andrew Davies, and the episodes were directed by Adam Smith, Dearbhla Walsh, and Diarmuid Lawrence.

The series' synopsis reads: "Little Dorrit is a period drama adapted from Charles Dickens' novel, following the Dorrit family's experiences in 1820s London. The story centers on Amy "Little" Dorrit, who was born and raised in the Marshalsea debtors' prison and works as a seamstress to support her family. The series explores themes of debt, social class, and the complexities of family relationships, particularly as they intersect with the wealthy Clennam family."

The series was met with high praise and this is reflected in its perfect 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The critics' consensus reads: "With a sterling cast and plenty of juicy drama, Little Dorrit is a superb adaptation."

One reviewer left a glowing review, they said: "I have seen many many adaptations of Dickens and other novels and period dramas. Little Dorrit is not one of Dickens' most known novels, however, this as it turns out is one of the best adaptations of all time. It has an extensive runtime allowing a complete and thorough faithful adaptation of the novel to be included. The production is wonderful and never drags, the different plot lines are interwoven brilliantly. Casting is perfect and all round great acting. Particularly Claire Foy in one of her early roles she is wonderful as Little Dorrit. Though the 1987 version of Little Dorrit was not bad for its time, this is such a great version that I supplants it in every way. The definitive Little Dorrit and the gauntlet for all period and novel adaptations."

Another said it was "the best thing they have ever seen", adding: "I stumbled on to this series about half way through an early episode purely by accident and within 5 minutes I was totally hooked - wow. My favorite programs are a combination of a great story, careful character development and excellent acting. This series has all these and more - the cinematography shows great sensitivity, the sets and costumes world class and even the theme music is mesmerizing. Each episode practically stands on it's own. It's the whole package."

Little Dorrit is available to stream right now on BBC iPlayer.