The Buccaneers': Even Apple's Billions Can't Buy a Bridgerton Clone, Apparently
Fans are already disappointed with the new period show.
When Netflix announced its plans to adapt Julia Quinn's series of novels into a series, no one paid any attention to the idea, as the author's name was virtually unknown to anyone who wasn't interested in romantic paperback novels.
However, the moment the show itself premiered, the whole world went crazy for a period romance, as the elaborate costumes, fancy British accents and complicated romantic affairs were just the thing to calm everyone down during the long COVID lockdown months.
And with the second season of Bridgerton doing even better than the first, other streaming services immediately tried to capitalize on the show's success, but all failed miserably. And now Apple TV + has decided to try its luck in the world of historical romance.
Filling the void
Apple TV is widely known for giving its shows unprecedented budgets, and the upcoming series The Buccaneers is no exception. The first trailer for the show promises gorgeous cinematography, meticulous production design and majestic costumes, and given that the series is based on the iconic novel by Edith Wharton, it looks like Apple TV already has its next blockbuster on its hands. Or does it?
It's clear that Apple TV is trying to capitalize on Bridgerton's long hiatus between seasons, basically filling the void for fans of the show in the hopes that people will like it and form a dedicated fandom similar to the one Bridgerton currently flexes.
However, it seems that viewers aren't too impressed with the trailer, arguing that despite its budget, the show looks like a cheap Bridgerton knock-off, and aside from perennial favorite Christina Hendricks, none of the actresses look endearing.
Betrayal of the original
Moreover, fans were a bit alarmed that Apple TV's writers decided to adapt Wharton's cult novel as a comedy, as the author's writings were much more than just a lighthearted romp.
It seems that the producers failed to recognize what fans really want, as The Buccaneers feels more like a comedy than the endearing romantic period drama that fans really crave.
The Buccaneers is set to premiere on November 8, 2023.