Season three of “Bridgerton” was disappointing to say the least, but season four came back with a vengeance.
Netflix’s “Bridgerton” follows a family of the same name on their journeys in the marriage mart in regency era England, with the small twist that racism has been eliminated in the world and therefore colorblind casting is permitted. Which is a large part of the reason “Bridgerton” has had such a vast rise in fame.
The storyline of season four is a Cinderella retelling, beat by beat. It follows Benedict, the second oldest Bridgerton son, played by Luke Thompson, and Sophie Baek, an illegitimately born maid played by Yerin Ha.
Benedict is the perfect leading man. He represents the kind of man I think the world needs to see right now — someone who, at his core, is kind, passionate, loving and naturally a yearner. All of which makes for perfect tension building.
Sophie’s character is brilliantly done. Her motivations, limitations and stubbornness keep the story going. Ha is also stunning and captivates the audience with her every move.
Their chemistry is palpable. The romance between the two is perfectly paced, her identity and lower class being the main conflicts of the story. Their declarations of love, and dedication to each other were perfect.
As for subplots, I feel Penelope’s story arc has been lost to the whims of other characters. Lady Danbury’s decision, however, fulfills a story arc long in the making when you consider the prequel, “Queen Charlotte.” But I can understand how both choices may be necessary for pushing the plot along.
As for Hyacinth and Elosie Bridegerton, I am happy to see them close as sisters, even more so for Hyacinth to make her debut into society. Her journey of recognizing the truth of death, and the fact that it’s how all great loves end, was a lesson hard-earned.
I hope that this is Elosie’s final stop on her self-centered arc. Perhaps now that she has a more fulfilling relationship with her family and respect for her fellow women, she can find love. Whatever that looks like for her.
There were small details that made this season beautiful to me — it may even rival the iconic season two.
The fourth season expanded the show’s representation. In this season, we had American Sign Language representation by background actors in the town, and a prominent side character, Hazel, played Gracie McGonigal, whose character and actor share a limb difference.
This is a more widespread, non-racial-based representation that adds a more distinguished element to “Bridgerton.” I would love to see this expanded on in the following seasons.
Overall, this latest season of “Bridgerton” is neck and neck with season two in my book and completely worth the watch. I love Benedict and Sophie in a deeply personal fashion. I believe you will, too.
