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The 45+ Best TV Shows Set In The 1920s, Ranked

Oh, those Roaring Twenties, offering new heights of fashion and a sense of wild abandon. The best television shows set in the '20s encompass the whole emotional scope of the 1920s - from fancy flappers to the stock market flop of 1929. Even with WWI past, there was still a lot of life to pick pack up in the 1920s and the best historical dramas touch on the turbulence of the era. Some of the best '20s TV shows are based on organized independent businessmen who were working around the laws of Prohibition, such as Boardwalk Empire; or filling the voids left when the world was changed post-WWI, as in Peaky Blinders or Resistance. Television shows set in the 1920s are also important parts of long, multi-generational dramas that follow a family - including shows such as The Thorn Birds, The Village, and Downton Abbey. Which of these top TV shows set in the 1920s are your favorites? Vote up your choices for the best shows set in the '20s, and see where your favorite 1920s TV shows rank.

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  1. 1

    Peaky Blinders

    Watch This Show If You Love: Boardwalk Empire, Babylon Berlin, The Making of the Mob, Underbelly: Squizzy, The Lawless Years Why Should I Stream? For those fascinated by gangster tales and stylish period dramas, Peaky Blinders is a must-watch television show. Set in post-World War I Birmingham, the series features stunning cinematography and sharp performances by a stellar ensemble cast led by Cillian Murphy. Its gritty portrayal of crime, power dynamics, and social upheaval will undoubtedly leave viewers eager to binge through its captivating seasons.

    78% upvoted
  2. 2

    Boardwalk Empire

    Watch This Show If You Love: Peaky Blinders, The Roaring 20's, American Horror Story: Hotel, Roots: The Next Generations, Mussolini: The Untold Story Why Should I Stream? With lavish production design and a stellar cast anchored by Steve Buscemi, Boardwalk Empire brings the hedonistic and dangerous world of Prohibition-era Atlantic City to life. Executive produced by Martin Scorsese and Terence Winter (The Sopranos), this Emmy-winning series expertly balances character-driven drama with thrilling mobster action. A captivating exploration of ambition, morality, and power struggles, it is a must-see for fans of crime dramas and rich period pieces.

    83% upvoted
  3. 3

    Downton Abbey

    Watch This Show If You Love: Upstairs, Downstairs, The Grand, Mr. Selfridge, The House of Eliott, The Duchess of Duke Street Why Should I Stream? Lovers of sumptuous historical dramas can't miss Downton Abbey, which explores the complex relationships between British aristocrats and their servants in the early 20th century. The critically acclaimed series boasts an excellent ensemble cast, rich character development, and impeccable attention to period detail. By showcasing societal changes alongside personal struggles, it keeps viewers enthralled from start to finish.

    74% upvoted
  4. 4

    Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries

    Watch This Show If You Love: Frankie Drake Mysteries, Cable Girls, When the Boat Comes In, Reilly, Ace of Spies, Paris Why Should I Stream? Set against the backdrop of 1920s Melbourne, Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries offers a refreshing take on the classic detective story with its fierce female lead, Phryne Fisher (Essie Davis). Impeccable costume design and witty dialogue keep viewers intrigued as Miss Fisher takes on challenging cases while shattering societal norms. The series' blend of mystery-solving adventures and progressive themes makes it an alluring watch for fans of murder mysteries and period dramas alike.

    77% upvoted
  5. 5

    Upstairs, Downstairs

    Watch This Show If You Love: Downton Abbey, Brideshead Revisited, Rebecca, Lillie, Margie Why Should I Stream? As one of the most beloved British TV shows from the 1970s, Upstairs, Downstairs offers an enthralling look into the lives of both aristocrats and servants in early 20th century London. The series' well-rounded characters and intricate plotlines helped to popularize the now-familiar format of intertwining stories set within grand estates. It remains a classic choice for those who appreciate high-quality period dramas that delve into societal issues while immersing viewers in sumptuous settings.

    80% upvoted
  6. 6

    Babylon Berlin

    Watch This Show If You Love: Boardwalk Empire, 1923, Houdini, Winston Churchill: The Wilderness Years, Harley and the Davidsons Why Should I Stream? Considered one of the most expensive non-English language TV shows ever made, Babylon Berlin transports viewers to the tumultuous world of 1920s Weimar Republic Germany. The highly praised series masterfully intertwines political intrigue with gripping personal stories while accurately portraying this chaotic era's look and feel. Its powerful storytelling combined with top-notch production values make it essential viewing for history buffs and fans of atmospheric crime dramas.

    76% upvoted
  7. 7

    1923

    Watch This Show If You Love: Babylon Berlin, The Bund, Carnation, The Lawless Years, The Secret of the Sahara Why Should I Stream? Set against the backdrop of post-WWI France, 1923 delves into the lives of various individuals struggling to adapt to their rapidly changing world while dealing with personal challenges. With its visually stunning cinematography and nuanced character development, this French miniseries captures viewers' attention from beginning to end. Fans of historical dramas that explore both political upheaval and intimate human struggles should not overlook 1923.

    75% upvoted
  8. 8

    Mr. Selfridge

    Watch This Show If You Love: Downton Abbey, Upstairs, Downstairs, The Grand, The House of Eliott, Hotel Portofino Why Should I Stream? Starring Jeremy Piven as the charismatic founder of London's iconic Selfridges department store, Mr. Selfridge is an engaging period drama that artfully balances business intrigue with personal turmoil. As viewers follow Harry Gordon Selfridge through his ambitious endeavors and tumultuous relationships, they become immersed in a world filled with glamour and scandal during the early 20th century. Lavish production design and strong supporting performances make this captivating series worth watching for fans of character-driven historical dramas.

    65% upvoted
  9. 9

    The House of Eliott

    Watch This Show If You Love: Downton Abbey, Upstairs, Downstairs, Mr. Selfridge, A Gentleman in Moscow, Resistance Why Should I Stream? Created by Upstairs, Downstairs co-creator Jean Marsh, The House of Eliott is a captivating drama that follows the lives of two sisters who establish a fashion house in London during the Roaring Twenties. Rich character development and authentic period costumes make this British series an engrossing watch for fans of historical fiction that focuses on personal growth, ambition, and sisterly bonds. With its strong female leads and engaging storylines, The House of Eliott is sure to win over viewers seeking inspiring period dramas with a feminist twist.

    70% upvoted
  10. 10

    Houdini

    Watch This Show If You Love: The Thorn Birds, Lady Chatterley, Rebecca, Cross of Fire, American Horror Story: Murder House Why Should I Stream? A fascinating exploration into the life of legendary magician Harry Houdini, this miniseries delves deep into his relentless pursuit of fame and his complex personal relationships. Adrien Brody's riveting performance in the title role captures Houdini's charisma and determination while keeping viewers spellbound throughout each episode. Combining historical accuracy with dramatic flair, Houdini offers a compelling glimpse into one of history's most enigmatic figures.

    68% upvoted