'Masterpiece' period drama based on classic 1938 book is hailed by fans as 'nostalgic'

A historical drama starring Lily James is being given its flowers after being named the "best period drama". Rebecca is a 2020 British romantic thriller film directed by Ben Wheatley from a screenplay by Jane Goldman, Joe Shrapnel and Anna Waterhouse. It is based on the 1938 novel Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier. The film stars Armie Hammer, Kristin Scott Thomas, Keeley Hawes, Ann Dowd, and Sam Riley, alongside James. Rebecca tells the story of a young woman who marries a wealthy widower whose memory of his first wife, Rebecca, overshadows them both and the events that occur following this.

The film's synopsis reads: "A young newlywed arrives at her husband's imposing family estate on a windswept English coast and finds herself battling the shadow of his first wife, Rebecca, whose legacy lives on in the house long after her death." Glamour magazine highlighted the film in its listing of "25 best period dramas on Netflix that are perfect for a spot of nostalgia".

One fan echoed Glamour's thoughts and dubbed it "nostalgic".

Another left a glowing review, stating: "This movie was absolutely lovely. I enjoyed the atmosphere of the movie along with how breathtakingly great the actors were. I loved the fact that we the audience never seen Rebecca's face, instead here presence was felt, I didn't know weather to hate or understand her because she seem so cruel and loved by others at the same time."

Another labelled the film a "masterpiece", while a third said: "So beautifully shot with top notch production values and well acted by first rate actors that you have to wonder what did they expect. I was thoroughly entertained and it held my attention throughout.

"I loved it and thank you Netflix for a first rate product. Watch it and judge for yourself."

A viewer said: "I've never seen the original version or read the book so I wasn't sure what to expect, but with Lily James and Arnie Hammer, I felt it was worth watching and WOW!

"I was blown away by their performances! Great story-romantic and suspenseful! Great plot twists and I was very impressed with Kristin Scott-Thomas. She owned her part as well and I was carried into the story with the brilliant acting. A very entertaining movie. I highly recommend!"

Rebecca is available to watch on the streaming platform Netflix.