Jilly Cooper’s Rivals, a literary sensation that set hearts racing and tongues wagging in the 1980s, has been resurrected in all its glory by Disney+. This adaptation is a masterclass in bringing a beloved novel to the screen, capturing the essence of Cooper’s witty prose, outrageous characters, and unapologetically indulgent tone. Prepare to be transported to the idyllic yet decadent world of Rutshire, where the champagne flows freely, passions run high, and the social elite engage in a whirlwind of love affairs, power struggles, and deliciously scandalous antics.
Rivals
This adaptation is a love letter to Cooper’s original work, staying true to the spirit of the novel while subtly updating it for a contemporary audience. The series retains the book’s core themes of ambition, love, betrayal, and social climbing, but it also addresses potentially problematic elements with a nuanced touch, ensuring that the story resonates with modern viewers without sacrificing its inherent charm. The dialogue is sharp and witty, peppered with Cooper’s signature blend of humor and innuendo, and the plot unfolds with a captivating blend of drama, romance, and social satire.
The success of any adaptation hinges on its casting, and Rivals boasts an ensemble cast that’s nothing short of stellar. Alex Hassell embodies the charismatic yet caddish Rupert Campbell-Black with a devilish charm that’s impossible to resist. He perfectly captures the character’s magnetism and allure, making it easy to understand why both men and women fall under his spell. Aidan Turner brings his trademark intensity to the role of Declan O’Hara, the ambitious journalist torn between his desire for success and his integrity. Victoria Smurfit is a revelation as Maud O’Hara, Declan’s spirited wife who navigates the treacherous waters of Rutshire society with wit and determination. And David Tennant steals every scene he’s in as the deliciously scheming Lord Tony Baddingham, a man driven by envy and a thirst for revenge.
Rivals is a visual feast, immersing viewers in the idyllic beauty of the Cotswolds. From grand country estates to charming village pubs, the series captures the essence of this picturesque region, creating a backdrop that’s as captivating as the characters themselves. The costumes are a riot of 80s fashion, a nostalgic throwback to an era of bold colors, power shoulders, and extravagant hairstyles. The soundtrack is equally evocative, a mix of period-appropriate pop hits and a sweeping orchestral score that perfectly complements the on-screen drama.
Beyond its surface-level glamour and scandalous antics, Rivals delves into deeper themes of ambition, class, and the pursuit of happiness. The characters are complex and multi-layered, driven by a mix of desires, insecurities, and ambitions. Rupert Campbell-Black, despite his outward charm and success, is haunted by a troubled past and a deep-seated fear of failure. Declan O’Hara grapples with the compromises he must make to achieve his professional goals, while Maud struggles to find her place in a society that values appearances over substance. Lord Tony Baddingham’s relentless pursuit of power masks a deep-seated insecurity and a desperate need for validation.
While the male characters are undeniably captivating, the women of Rivals are equally compelling. Maud O’Hara is a force to be reckoned with, a woman who refuses to be defined by her husband’s success or the expectations of Rutshire society. She’s fiercely independent, witty, and unafraid to challenge the status quo. Taggie O’Hara, Declan and Maud’s eldest daughter, is a young woman on the cusp of adulthood, navigating the complexities of love, family, and self-discovery. Lizzie Allen, a successful author and one of the few voices of reason in the chaotic world of Rutshire, provides a grounded perspective on the excesses of the social elite.
Amidst the romantic entanglements and power struggles, Rivals also celebrates the power of female friendship. Maud and Lizzie’s bond is a highlight of the series, a testament to the strength and support that women can find in each other. They navigate the challenges of life in Rutshire together, offering each other advice, encouragement, and a shoulder to lean on. The series also showcases women in positions of power, such as Cameron Cook, the ambitious American producer who challenges the male-dominated world of television.
While Rivals is set in the 1980s, its themes of ambition, love, betrayal, and social climbing remain timeless. The series offers a nostalgic glimpse into a bygone era, but it also speaks to the enduring human experiences that transcend time and place. The characters’ struggles with love, loss, and the pursuit of happiness are as relevant today as they were in the 80s, making Rivals a story that resonates with viewers of all ages.
If you’re a fan of Jilly Cooper’s novels, this adaptation is a must-watch. It faithfully captures the spirit of the book while adding a fresh perspective that will appeal to both longtime fans and newcomers alike. But even if you’re not familiar with Cooper’s work, Rivals is a highly entertaining series that will captivate you with its witty dialogue, outrageous characters, and captivating storyline. It’s a celebration of escapism, a reminder that sometimes it’s okay to indulge in a bit of over-the-top drama and let yourself be swept away by a world of glamour and intrigue.
