For those seeking a Valentine’s Day viewing option beyond the usual romantic comedies, a period drama starring Hannah Waddingham has quietly emerged as a compelling alternative. Tom Jones, a four-part adaptation of Henry Fielding’s 1749 novel The History of Tom Jones, A Foundling, offers a “scandalous” take on 18th-century romance.
The series follows the titular Tom Jones (Solly McLeod), a young man of humble origins who falls for the wealthy Sophia Western (Sophie Wilde). Their burgeoning relationship is, predictably, met with resistance from their families, setting the stage for a classic tale of societal obstacles and the enduring power of love. The central question posed by the series – “Can love conquer all?” – echoes the timeless themes that continue to resonate with audiences.
Beyond the central romance, Tom Jones boasts an impressive ensemble cast. Sophie Wilde, known for her role in Babygirl, joins veteran actors like James Fleet (The Vicar of Dibley), Dean Lennox Kelly (Shameless), and Pearl Mackie (Doctor Who). Rounding out the cast are Felicity Montagu (I’m Alan Partridge), Shirley Henderson (I Swear), and Alun Anderson (New Tricks).
However, despite its notable cast and intriguing premise, Tom Jones has flown somewhat under the radar. It hasn’t broken into the top 1,000 most-watched shows on JustWatch UK, a platform that tracks viewership across streaming services, and currently holds only 1,400 user ratings on IMDb. This relative obscurity is somewhat surprising given the current appetite for period dramas, particularly those featuring well-known actors.
Hannah Waddingham’s presence is undoubtedly a key draw. The actress, currently enjoying widespread acclaim for her role in Ted Lasso, portrays Lady Bellaston, described as a “brilliant” and “over-the-top” character with a “horrifically sybaritic lifestyle of debauchery.” Waddingham’s performance promises to inject a dose of intrigue and danger into the narrative, as Lady Bellaston actively schemes to thwart the romance between Tom and Sophia.
The series arrives amidst a flurry of period drama releases, most notably Emerald Fennell’s reimagining of Wuthering Heights, starring Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi. While Fennell’s adaptation has generated significant buzz – and mixed reviews – Tom Jones offers a different flavor of historical romance, leaning more towards comedic elements than the brooding intensity of Wuthering Heights.
For viewers seeking a lighter, more playful take on the genre, Tom Jones presents a compelling option. The series’ exploration of class differences, societal expectations, and the complexities of love, all set against the backdrop of 18th-century England, offers a refreshing alternative to more conventional Valentine’s Day fare.
The relative lack of attention surrounding Tom Jones is perhaps a testament to the sheer volume of content available to viewers today. In a crowded streaming landscape, even projects with strong casts and compelling premises can struggle to break through the noise. However, for those willing to venture off the beaten path, Tom Jones offers a charming and engaging period drama experience.
Tom Jones is currently available to stream on ITVX.