Based on the novel by celebrated writer Frances Hodgson Burnett (The Secret Garden), this is the story of the educated but penniless Emily (Lydia Wilson, South Riding). During her duties as a lady’s companion for Lady Maria (Joanna Lumley, Absolutely Fabulous), she meets her employer’s wealthy widower nephew, Lord James Walderhurst (Linus Roache, The Wings of the Dove). Accepting his practical if unromantic marriage proposal, Emily finds solace in the company of Walderhurst’s nephew Alec Osborn (James D’Arcy) and his glamorous wife, Hester (Hasina Haque), after Lord James leaves to rejoin his regiment. Emily, alone with the Osborns in an isolated country estate, increasingly comes under their control. She begins to fear for her life. Will Walderhurst return in time to save her?
If you like a bit of Gothic darkness, may be for you. Think Jane Eyre with a dark, Dickensian flavor. “Well-bred, elegantly turned out and more than a little frightening.” – The Sunday Times
“For about half of this 90-minute movie, you might think you’re watching just another variation on the mild, costume-heavy, drawing-room dramas that Britain seems to export by the boatload. But the story — based on a 1901 novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett, who wrote “The Secret Garden” — grows gradually darker. That slow reveal of the tale’s sinister side makes this a simultaneously relaxing yet goosebumpy post-“Downton” treat.” – NYT
Starring Lydia Wilson, Linus Roache, Hasina Haque, James D’Arcy, and Maggie Fox.
Note: The Making of a Lady starts in such a pleasant way and then events turn dark. This is just about as much of a psychological thriller that Willow and Thatch can endure, while really enjoying herself. And this _is_ a romance, with a staggering 42 costume changes for 100 minutes of drama. Still, if you are quite prone to nightmares, you may want to avoid it.
The Victorian era ended on January 22, 1901, and this story spans a length of time in 1901, so it is listed as both [Victorian](http://www.willowandthatch.com/period-films-to-watch/period-dramas-victorian-era/) and [Edwardian](http://www.willowandthatch.com/period-films-to-watch/best-period-dramas-edwardian-era/).