'Masterpiece' period drama based on classic novel hailed 'the best Netflix series'

Netflix is home to a breathtaking period drama set in Italy during the second half of the 19th century.

Unification was underway and Giuseppe Garibaldi's Redshirt army was on the verge of conquering Sicily.

Netflix's new series tells the story of that period through the eyes of the Sicilian aristocratic Corbera family.

The book on which it is based became the highest-selling novel in Italian history.

The series in question is The Leopard, and it tells the story of Don Fabrizio Corbera, Prince of Salina (played by Kim Rossi Stuart).

The Sicilian nobleman's family rides the changing tides of Italian life during Garibaldi's conquest.

The synopsis explains: "When the Redshirts arrive in Palermo, Corbera and his family flee to his Donnafugata estate, where their situation quickly becomes precarious.

"As times change, the Corbera family will have to adapt to survive - or die on the vine."

Initially dropping at the start of 2025, the drama has already been hailed a "cinematic masterpiece" by fans.

Taking to Google Reviews, Jeanne Maria Griffin said: "It's a cinematic masterpiece of visual artistry, engaging the senses so that one is transported into 19th-century western Sicily at the time of the Risorgimento and vicariously becomes a member of the Salina household.

"The scenes of street battles and the Landing of Garibaldi's Thousand are authentically dramatised. I strongly recommend it."

While Piper Wright added: "One of the best period productions aired on television. Yes, it's that good.

"A masterpiece of cinematic, acting, costuming and music. If you enjoy period pieces, you'll binge-watch The Leopard and want to rewatch it again."

On IMDb reviews, gmoutsgr called it a "must-see series", adding: "It could have actually been a cinema film, this is the perfection of its film making.

"An epic construction of storytelling, acting, costumes, scenery and music offers an utter delight to watch.

"As far as I am concerned, this is the best Netflix series I have watched so far."

The Leopard is on Netflix