Raise a Glass to ‘House of Guinness’ A Stunning 1860s Irish ‘Succession’ Experience
House of Guinness: A Riveting Irish Drama on Netflix
A Dramatic Tale of Power Struggles in 1860s Ireland
Steven Knight, the mastermind behind the gritty series Peaky Blinders and A Thousand Blows, returns with his latest Netflix creation, House of Guinness. This engaging series, set in the 1860s, delves into the fascinating battle for control over the prestigious Irish brewing company. With a creative disclaimer, Knight opens the series by stating, “This fiction is inspired by true stories,” allowing him the liberty to explore rich storytelling while blending fact with fiction.
The Intriguing Family Dynamics
In a style reminiscent of the acclaimed series Succession, House of Guinness centers on the adult children of Sir Benjamin Lee Guinness. After the sudden demise of Sir Benjamin, who was the Lord Mayor of Dublin and a member of Parliament, his fortune and the legendary brewery are divided among his heirs.
The eldest son, Arthur, must collaborate with his youngest brother, Edward, to steer the brewery. Meanwhile, the black sheep, Ben, and their sister, Anne, face restrictions due to societal norms of the 1860s. As each sibling schemes to improve their status, viewers are drawn into a tale of ambition and family feuds.
Outside Threats and Wider Political Context
The story of House of Guinness is enriched by external turmoil. Ireland’s recent independence from England and continued rebellion play crucial roles. The plot spans Dublin and New York, symbolizing the international influence of the Guinness empire and the external forces eager to topple the family dynasty.
Among these forces is Ellen Cochrane, portrayed by Niamh McCormack, who uses blackmail to challenge the Guinness family’s authority. Each character introduced adds depth to the series, creating a rich tapestry of drama and intrigue.
Powerful Performances by a Talented Cast
The casting in House of Guinness is exemplary, with Niamh McCormack, Emily Fairn, and Danielle Galligan delivering standout performances. These actors breathe life into their characters, each navigating the challenges within the heavily patriarchal society.
The brothers, played by Anthony Boyle, Louis Partridge, and Fionn O’Shea, bring distinctive energy to the series, echoing the ensemble brilliance seen in Peaky Blinders.
A Must-Watch for Drama Enthusiasts
For those enamored by period dramas, such as The Gilded Age and Succession, House of Guinness promises an absorbing experience filled with intense confrontations and unexpected developments. Although the authentic Irish accents might pose a challenge, enabling subtitles can ensure you don’t miss a moment of this captivating narrative. Join Netflix for this thrilling glimpse into a bygone era’s familial and political power struggles, all masterfully translated into engaging drama by Knight.
