Anya Taylor-Joy Shines in This Must-Watch Period Drama Miniseries – Here’s Why You Should Watch
Anya Taylor-Joy Shines in This Must-Watch Period Drama Miniseries – Here’s Why You Should Watch
Anya Taylor-Joy has cemented her status as one of Hollywood’s most sought-after stars. From her breakout role in The Witch (2015) to her award-winning performance in The Queen’s Gambit (2020), she continues to impress. Most recently, she starred alongside Miles Teller in The Gorge, which set records as Apple TV+’s biggest movie launch ever, surpassing Wolfs starring George Clooney and Brad Pitt.
While The Queen’s Gambit remains one of Taylor-Joy’s most iconic roles, there’s a hidden gem in her filmography that deserves more attention—The Miniaturist. This PBS Masterpiece Theater miniseries is a captivating period drama filled with mystery, stunning visuals, and one of Taylor-Joy’s most quietly powerful performances.
If you’re a fan of intricate historical dramas, beautifully crafted sets, and compelling character-driven stories, The Miniaturist should be at the top of your watchlist.
What Is The Miniaturist About?
The Miniaturist is based on Jessie Burton’s bestselling novel, inspired by a real-life dollhouse from 17th-century Amsterdam. The story follows Nella Oortman (Anya Taylor-Joy), a young woman forced into an arranged marriage to help her struggling family pay off debts. Her new husband, Johannes Brandt (Alex Hassell), is wealthy but emotionally distant, hiding a secret that makes their marriage far from conventional.
As a wedding gift, Johannes gives Nella an intricately designed cabinet, meant to serve as a dollhouse. When Nella orders miniature furniture from an anonymous miniaturist, she receives unexpected items—pieces that eerily mirror real-life objects in her new home. Soon, these mysterious deliveries begin exposing secrets about the Brandt household, drawing Nella into a web of intrigue and deception.
Though the story carries elements of mystery, The Miniaturist is less about solving a puzzle and more about exploring themes of loneliness, societal expectations, and personal agency—making it a deeply emotional and engaging watch.
Anya Taylor-Joy’s Performance in The Miniaturist
Anya Taylor-Joy delivers a breathtaking performance as Nella, bringing depth and quiet intensity to the character. Initially, Nella is naive, hopeful, and eager to make the best of her situation. However, as she realizes the reality of her marriage, Taylor-Joy masterfully portrays her transformation—from a dutiful young wife to a woman determined to carve out her own space in a restrictive society.
One of Taylor-Joy’s greatest strengths as an actress is her ability to convey emotion through subtle facial expressions. In The Miniaturist, she doesn’t rely on dramatic outbursts; instead, her heartbreak, frustration, and resilience shine through in the smallest gestures, making her performance all the more powerful.
Her chemistry with Alex Hassell, who plays Johannes, adds another layer to the story. Johannes is charming yet deeply flawed, and their relationship—built on both understanding and distance—creates some of the most gripping moments in the series.
Why The Miniaturist Stands Out Among Period Dramas
1. Stunning Production and Costume Design
PBS Masterpiece is known for its lavish period dramas, and The Miniaturist is no exception. The series perfectly recreates 17th-century Amsterdam, immersing viewers in its atmospheric world. From candlelit interiors to cobblestone streets, every detail is meticulously crafted.
A particularly brilliant touch is how Nella’s ill-fitting dresses subtly symbolize her outsider status in the Brandt household. Her husband and sister-in-law see her as a role to be filled rather than a person, and the wardrobe design reflects this beautifully.
2. The Eerie Miniatures Themselves
One of the most striking aspects of the show is the miniatures. These tiny, handcrafted pieces play a crucial role in the story, bridging reality and mystery. As Nella unpacks each delivery, the anticipation builds, making every reveal both mesmerizing and unsettling.
3. A Unique Take on Historical Storytelling
Unlike many period dramas that focus on grand romances or royal intrigues, The Miniaturist tells a more intimate yet equally compelling story. It explores themes of isolation, identity, and the limitations imposed on women during the era.
While The Queen’s Gambit showcased Taylor-Joy’s brilliance in a modern historical setting, The Miniaturist proves that she is just as captivating in a traditional period piece.
Should You Watch The Miniaturist?
If you enjoyed The Queen’s Gambit, Emma, or Peaky Blinders, The Miniaturist is a must-watch. While it may not have the fast-paced drama of some other Masterpiece Theater series, its emotional depth, stunning visuals, and top-tier performances make it an unforgettable experience.
The series is available for streaming on the PBS Masterpiece Amazon Channel in the U.S.
FAQs
1. Is The Miniaturist based on a true story?
Not exactly. The novel and series are inspired by a real 17th-century dollhouse owned by Petronella Oortman, which is displayed at the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam. However, the plot and characters are entirely fictional.
2. How many episodes does The Miniaturist have?
The miniseries consists of three episodes, making it a quick but immersive watch.
3. Where can I stream The Miniaturist?
The series is available on the PBS Masterpiece Amazon Channel in the U.S.
4. Does The Miniaturist have a satisfying ending?
While the series leaves some questions unanswered, it offers a thoughtful and emotional conclusion that fits the themes of the story.
5. Is The Miniaturist similar to The Queen’s Gambit?
Both series feature strong female leads and historical settings, but The Queen’s Gambit is more focused on personal ambition and competition, while The Miniaturist delves into mystery and societal expectations.
