The hit Netflix series, “Bridgerton” is back after almost two years. The series, based on the Julia Quinn books by the same name, released season four part one on Jan. 29. Part one features four episodes that tell the story from Quinn’s third book, “An Offer From A Gentleman.” This time around the focus is on the second eldest brother of the Bridgerton family, Benedict, and the reimagining of the classic Cinderella fairytale.
The season begins in a whirlwind of motion: the “Ton” (also known as society) is preparing for the first event of the social season, a masquerade ball hosted by Lady Violet Bridgerton at Bridgerton estate. The ball is not only a night of fun but the opportunity to don a mask and costume, disguising themselves for the night. At midnight, the masks will come off and attendees will reveal themselves. Our leading man, Benedict, is not eager to attend the ball or be a part of the social scene.
One major theme of this season is Benedict’s feeling of not fitting in society. He wishes not to marry, instead seeking a life of purpose, expression, and freedom from societal constraints. In 19th century London the thought of not marrying was frowned upon heavily, which is symbolized by Benedict’s mother, Lady Violet Bridgerton. She continuously encourages him that he must marry and it is just a matter of meeting the right lady.
When Benedict eventually arrives at the ball, he attempts to make small talk with the debutants, upon the instruction of his mother, until he spots her: Sophie Baek, or as Benedict knows her, “the lady in silver.” Sophie is not a member of the Ton, instead she is a maid for her step mother and two step sisters that snuck out for the night to the ball. When the two meet it is a “love at first sight” moment. Just as they are getting to know each other, the clock strikes midnight and Sophie leaves, desperate to keep her identity a secret, knowing she can never marry Benedict. But, she leaves one, small clue behind: her glove. This prompts Benedict to embark on a quest to find the “lady in silver” and declare his love for her. Enlisting the help of his younger sister Eloise and sister-in-law Penelope, Benedict braves the debutants, mamas, and Ton to find his mystery woman.
Although that is the main plot of season four, there are many subplots as well. Colin and Penelope Bridgerton are navigating their married life as well as Penelope’s not so secret identity as Lady Whistledown, society’s most scandalous newspaper column. Tensions rise between Lady Danbury and the Queen, when Danbury asks to leave England. Francesca Bridgerton is also trying to adjust to her marriage to John Stirling, proving to be difficult and confusing. Lady Violet Bridgerton, Benedict’s mother, is also facing her own conflicting desire for Lord Marcus Anderson. Those are just a few of the many conflicts facing the characters in this season of “Bridgerton,” but for the leads, Benedict and Sophie, these additional storylines can be distracting.
The central romance and main plot feels overlooked at times, making it difficult to root for them. Additionally with Lady Whistledown’s identity having been revealed in season three as Penelope, these episodes lack the signature gossip. In previous seasons, Penelope’s column created an air of drama and suspense for members of the Ton. Now however, her writing is highly controlled by the Queen, which makes it lose its impact and influence.
An interesting element to this season is its emphasis on social class. In previous seasons, both love interests were affluent members of the Ton, so there was no power struggle. Sophie is the first lead character that is from a lower social standing, yet she is portrayed as a clever, strong willed lady. As she develops feelings for Benedict, and Benedict for her, it is continuously reinforced that the two cannot be together because of their social class divides. The big question is how will this fairytale scenario end?
“Bridgerton” has ranked number one in Netflix’s top ten shows in the United States since its release. Part one ends on a cliffhanger, leaving fans eager for the release of part two. The last four episodes will be available to stream on Feb. 26. The official teaser trailer for part two is now available to watch on YouTube. Will it truly have the Cinderella happy ending fans so desperately yearn and burn for?
