Masterpiece period drama based on top-selling novel of all time is 'best adaptation ever'

The TV adaptation which first aired almost a decade ago has been branded the "best ever" by fans who can't get enough of the period drama. There have been several adaptations of William Makepeace Thackeray's novel - in film, radio and television. While the number of copies sold is not readily available, the novel's bestseller status is reflected in its enduring popularity. The book was made into a film in 1932 and in 2004 starring Reese Witherspoon. The BBC also featured a 16-part series in 1987. Fans are still raving about the 2018 adaptation of Vanity Fair with many admitting they were left in tears. The historical drama miniseries based on the 1848 novel starred Olivia Cooke as Becky Sharp, Tom Bateman as Captain Rawdon Crawley, Claudia Jessie as Amelia Sedley, and Michael Palin as the author Thackeray.

The seven-part series, which initially aired on ITV, follows the ambitious social climber Becky Sharp as she navigates 19th-century English society, her relationships, and her pursuit of wealth and status against the backdrop of the Napoleonic War. The story centres around Becky, a cunning but spirited young woman from a poor background who uses her wit and charm to elevate in society.

Fans are still praising the series which has received an impressive score of 89% on Rotten Tomatoes.

One gushed: "The best adaptation of this story. I binged watched the box set over two nights and thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it!"

A second echoed: "Excellent acting, anchored by Olivia Cooke, who steals every scene--even though her character is essentially unlovable. Struggling to find her place in a class-conscious world that values a fortunate birth over talent and ingenuity, Becky would be recognized today as a charming psychopath. She's manipulative, has no real emotional attachments, and only values people for what they can do for her."

"Absolutely brilliant. Thought we had seen the last of these marvelous period pieces. Thank goodness I was wrong," another penned.

A fourth admitted: "Moved me to tears," while another added: "A stunning masterpiece."

A fifth penned: "Loved it. Casting was great and I loved the adaption."

The 2018 series is available to stream online for a small fee on Prime Video and Apple TV.