LIFE & CULTURE

Raise The Sails, There’s A New Netflix Show That’s Said To Be Like ‘Bridgerton’ But Out At Sea

Say 'ahoy' to your next must-watch

If the pop-culture phenomenon of Bridgerton was the reason behind a growing obsession with period dramas, then do we have news for you.

Thanks to Netflix’s Regency-era drama, fans of the show have become accustomed to narratives with a historical twist.

And while we thoroughly enjoy each moment that Lady Whistledown—and a certain Duke of Hastings—graces our screen, it’s safe to say that our annual dose of Regency isn’t enough. 

Enter: Netflix’s 1899.

The brainchild of the creators behind hit show, Dark, this eight-part series is set to deliver period costuming and dialogue that fans long for, but with a sprinkle of ominous plot and eerie surroundings—basically, 1899 is a period drama meets a horror film meets Pirates Of The Carribbean. Following a migrant boat making its way from London to New York, a group of European travellers stumble across another ship making the same voyage that will change their lives forever.

Either way, its plot line and that spine-tingling teaser undoubtedly has our interest piqued. 

Fascinated? Keep reading for everything you need to know about 1899—from the plot and cast members to when you can stream it in Australia.

What Is The Plot Of 1899?

Made by Jantje Friese and Baran bo Odar, the creators behind Netflix’s Dark, 1889 is an eight-episode period drama that follows a migrant steamship filled with travellers heading from London to New York city.

As per the official press release, the ship’s residents are a “mixed bag of European origins” who are united by their hopes and dreams for a future abroad. However, when they discover a second migrant ship sailing close by—that’s been reported missing for months—what they find on board the mystery boat is on par with nightmares and sees their journeys change—for the worse.

In a joint statement, Friese and Odar also commented on the importance of pioneering diverse European content with a varying cast from multiple countries.

“What really made us connect to this idea was the concept of having a truly European show with a mixed cast from different countries. At its heart is the question of what unites us and what divides us. And how fear can be a trigger for the latter.”

Speaking to Deadline, the pair elaborated, saying: “1899 is pioneering in terms of its commitment to authenticity of language. It’s exciting to be part of a truly international show. There will be points in the show where characters have problems communicating because of the languages – I don’t think it’s something we’ve seen before.”

Is There A Trailer For 1899?

Currently, there is no full-length trailer for the upcoming series. However, Netflix has released a spooky teaser to whet our appetite until the release.

In the approximately one-minute clip, an increasingly eerie shot of the suspicious ship is in view, with a tentative and confused voiceover asking, “Hello. What happened to you?” as another says, “This can’t be real.” 

Who Is Cast In 1899?

As expected with every Netflix offering, the cast of 1899 is all hands on deck when it comes to delivering a stellar cast, who each speak their own mother tongue on-screen.

Joining the fleet is Emily Beecham (The Pursuit Of Love); Aneurin Barnard (Dunkirk); Anton Lesser (Game Of Thrones); Andreas Pietschmann (Dark); Miguel Bernardeau (Elite); and Maciej Musial (The Witcher) to name a few.

When Will 1899 Be Released In Australia?

Currently, there is no confirmed release date for 1899. However, one is surely on the horizon given that production on the series began in May 2021.

Related stories