The Last Czars is a fascinating look at one of Russia’s most intriguing periods. While there aren’t any famous faces involved, the actors all do a great job while the writing and directing are capable. Fans of historical dramas or period pieces dealing with royal families will certainly dig this one. 

9. Victoria 

This three-season drama traces the life of Queen Victoria as she ascends the throne at the age of just 18. It follows her marriage to Prince Albert of Germany, the struggles she faced balancing domestic life with ruling the British Empire, and the sudden arrival of her estranged maternal half-sister, Princess Feodora. 

While it stays fairly close to the truth, Victoria has been accused of going down the Downtown Abby route by including storylines that are a little more soap opera-like. That said, the show makes for entertaining viewing for anyone who loves the monarch. The cast is also exceptionally talented, with the likes of Jenna Coleman (Queen Victoria), Tom Hughes (Prince Albert), Nell Hudson (Nancy Skerrett), and Rufus Sewell (Lord Melbourne, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom) all exceptional. 

10. Reign

Once again stepping out of England, the Reign revolves around the life of Mary, Queen of Scots. Ascending to the throne at age six, she spent much of her younger years in France. She would go on to marry three different men during her lifetime. Upon her return to Britain, things didn’t quite go to plan. Having once claimed herself as the rightful heir to the throne of England, Mary was chased across the country by her cousin Elizabeth I who didn’t want her power challenged. She was eventually captured and imprisoned for 18 years, before finally being sentenced to death. 

Reign charts Mary’s life from her time in France to her return to England. It also details her attempt at taking back the throne. While the cast doesn’t feature any big names, Adelaide Kane is amazing as Mary, Queen of Scots. The costumes and cinematography have also been praised by critics.