“The Lady’s Companion” is an eight-episode romantic comedy set in 19th-century Madrid that introduces us to Elena Bianda, played by Nadia de Santiago. Elena, a chaperone, must find suitable husbands for three sisters who have just lost their mother while also sorting out her own romantic life.
Netflix once again bets on romantic comedy in Spain, this time with a series created by Gema R. Neira and María José Rustarazo, also responsible for the hit show “Cable Girls” (Las Chicas del Cable). Following the successful formula, they return with this lighthearted period comedy, again featuring female protagonists.
Plot
At the heart of the story is Elena Bianda, portrayed by Nadia de Santiago, Madrid’s most sought-after chaperone. With a track record of successfully guiding over 20 ladies to respectable engagements, Elena’s life takes an unexpected turn when she arrives at the Mencía household to guide three sisters through the treacherous waters of 19th-century society.
The Cast
Nadia de Santiago leads the ensemble, with Álvaro Mel as Santiago and Isa Montalbán as Cristina. They’re supported by a talented cast that promises to bring the vibrant world of Alphonsine-era Madrid to life.
About the Series
While the setting may not be as lavish as “Bridgerton,” it effectively transports us to the era, showcasing the palatial homes of the wealthiest noble families, along with period balls and costumes. As with its American counterpart, the story takes a modern twist, featuring characters who, though from a bygone era, seem to possess a much more contemporary mindset. It’s as if we’re watching a modernized Jane Austen novel. This formula works, so it’s no surprise that producers are capitalizing on it.
“The Lady’s Companion” is a cheerful, entertaining series that’s easy to watch. Don’t expect too much depth in the plot or groundbreaking innovations in structure, theme, or aesthetics. It’s essentially a romantic comedy without lofty pretensions, but it’s entertaining and aesthetically elegant, with solid direction and relatable characters that audiences will likely warm to.
The show boasts good production values that, while not as opulent as “Bridgerton,” effectively immerse us in the period. We’re treated to the palatial homes of the era’s wealthiest noble families, along with authentic balls and period costumes. However, as with its American counterpart, the story takes a modern twist. The characters, though from a bygone era, possess a much more contemporary mindset – imagine a modernized Jane Austen novel. This formula has proven successful, so it’s no surprise that producers are leveraging it.
“The Lady’s Companion” is a light-hearted, enjoyable series that doesn’t demand too much from its viewers. Don’t expect profound plot lines or revolutionary approaches to structure, theme, or aesthetics. It’s fundamentally a romantic comedy without grand ambitions, but it succeeds in being entertaining and visually appealing, with competent direction and likable characters that are likely to resonate with audiences.
Enjoy the show!
Where to Watch “The Lady’s Companion”
