Fans 'captivated' by revenge period drama as 'best adaptation ever'

A freshly-released period drama is mesmerising viewers with its 'brilliant' writing, 'flawless' casting choices and gripping storyline that will keep you glued to your screen.

The mix of passion, hatred and delicious vengeance, situated in the Napoleonic period, is capturing audiences' imagination - and it's all based on a novel that was originally penned in the 1800s.

The novel, by Alexandre Dumas was first published in 1846 and there have been previous screen adaptations, but now a fresh series about the 'epic tale of retribution' has been launched and is broadcasting on U&Drama channel.

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The Count of Monte Cristo, featuring British actor Sam Claflin was released on August 2, 2025 - and audiences are adoring the eight-episode series.

It's been hailed as the ideal mix of romance, tragedy and vengeance, you'll witness the lead character Edmond Dantès (portrayed by Claflin) transform into a different person due to his experiences, reports the Express.

Viewers are delighted when Dantès devises a scheme of retribution following dreadful mistreatment, with audiences declaring the TV mini-series 'honoured the book perfectly'.

One fan praised the period drama series on IMDB, saying: "Great adaptation, I've seen many adaptations of this particular book by Alexandre Dumas.

"And in my opinion this one is by far the best. I read the book and loved it a lot - this is a captivating story and an epic revenge tale, this TV mini series did the book justice.

"The way Count placed his ponds and stroke when his enemies least expected - pure genius.

"This adaptation perfectly sees it through, Sam Claflin did an amazing job as Edmond / the count.

"Will I watch it again - for sure, if you ever find yourself in need of revenge - do it Montecristo style."

Another critic hailed the 'incredible performances' saying the series 'provides a stunning and innovative' take on Alexandre Dumas' timeless masterpiece.

The story of 'treachery, vengeance, and salvation' tugs at viewers' heartstrings, the critic explained, following sailor Edmond Dantès who is 'unjustly incarcerated'.

However, his 'metamorphosis into the mysterious and vindictive Count of Monte-Cristo is portrayed with passion and complexity' the critic elaborated.

Commending the tale's storytelling and 'complex narrative' alongside its 'concepts of fairness, ethics, and human strength' the critic awarded it a perfect 10 out of 10.

Another fan called the sequences 'breathtaking', also awarding it full marks for a 'superb contemporary interpretation of a legendary story'.

They wrote: "As someone who grew up reading The Count of Monte Cristo, I was thrilled to see how this mini-series reimagines the timeless story in such a compelling and modern way.

"It captures the essence of the original-revenge, justice, and redemption-while weaving in fresh twists that keep you hooked from start to finish."