The Gilded Age is an intriguing blend of extravagance and melodrama. With its cast of Broadway talents and eye-catching hats, it captivates and entertains. However, despite the considerable resources devoted to its production, the narrative often feels light. The lives of New York’s elite in the late 19th century unfold with a whimsical grace as impeccably dressed women navigate both significant and trivial dramas, all treated with equal importance. Watching it is like indulging in a cozy reverie, with thoughts often drifting to the stunning hats.
Sisters Agnes Van Rhijn (Christine Baranski) and Ada Forte (Cynthia Nixon) have recently experienced a dramatic shift in their fortunes. After their nephew Oscar (Blake Ritson) nearly jeopardized their wealth, a near-penniless crisis is averted when it turns out that Ada’s late husband, Rev. Luke Forte, left behind a fortune from a thriving textiles enterprise. How convenient! The Gilded Age can be so delightfully over-the-top that the drama seems to bubble over.
Now supporting the household financially, the formerly meek Ada is adjusting to her new role, while the more assertive Agnes struggles with her newfound dependence. Ada’s involvement in the temperance movement is met with indifference from both staff and family, offering a subplot that drags on longer than necessary. Baranski and Nixon shine, and it’s clear that much of their dialogue is simply an excuse to showcase their remarkable talent. Baranski, in particular, delivers her lines with sharp wit, reminiscent of a classic Maggie Smith moment.
Meanwhile, the ostentatious Russell household is also undergoing changes. With George Russell (Morgan Spector) busy out West with mining ventures and plotting a railway, his formidable wife, Bertha (Carrie Coon), takes charge in New York. She fully embraces this leadership role, dabbling in both her children’s romantic pursuits and her grand ambitions for social standing.
In previous seasons, it sometimes felt that creator Julian Fellowes was either hampered by expectations or free to do as he pleased, resulting in drawn-out episodes with diminishing tension. Yet now, the narrative is much more engaging. Themes of modernity, wealth, and divorce bring a fresh energy. Characters like Marian (Louisa Jacobson) are taking bold steps, like seeking a high school teaching position that sparks concern from her aunt Agnes. Meanwhile, Peggy (Denée Benton) is finally on the verge of greatness, embodying a refreshing potential.
Romance is woven throughout, exploring whether one should marry for love, wealth, or security—often posing the question of whether these desires can coexist. The clash between old-world charm and straightforward American values introduces an intriguing layer of conflict, peppered with a hint of villainy from English society.
The Gilded Age has evolved into a show that is not only grand but also delightfully amusing. Far from being drearily pretentious, it has embraced a joyful pompousness that makes it all the more enjoyable. Count me in!
The Gilded Age is available on Sky Atlantic in the UK, HBO and Max in the US, and Paramount+ in Australia.
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