‘Perfect’ period drama ‘better than Outlander’ is available to stream on Netflix

The same titles often come up when fans attempt to find a new and exciting period drama to watch, but what if there is one even better than the best-known series sitting right under your nose? Inspired by the true story of one of Italy’s first female lawyers, The Law According to Lidia Poët follows the titular attorney (played by Matilda De Angelis) as she fights to practice law in late 19th-century Turin, Italy.

Disbarred from practising law simply because she is a woman and forced into being an assistant to her lawyer brother Enrico (Pier Luigi Pasino), Lidia fights for gender equality at a time when it didn't exist. Despite the obstacles, she continues to work behind the scenes on cases, using her intelligence, determination, and progressive views on justice to solve crimes.

The six-part series hit Netflix in 2023, while the second season followed one year later. Fans will be delighted to know that both seasons are available to stream on the subscription site – and another season is coming soon.

The Italian historical drama was met with praise upon its release, with critics lauding the mixture of courtroom drama, mystery-solving, and feminist themes.

However, the series faced criticism from Lidia Poët's grandnephew, who accused it of sexualising her character, ignoring her Waldensian heritage and lacking proper historical context.

Despite the backlash, The Law According to Lidia Poët has a perfect rating on Rotten Tomatoes and has been met with continuous praise from viewers.

One wrote: "Love it! Actors are brilliant, script is developed and interesting; Costumes are Amazing!!! The details of jewellery and accessories for Lidia are Fabulous!!!!! Love the insect brooches or fly/ spider earrings!!! And that’s just 1 character!! Everything, the finest detail was designed and styled to perfection!!!"

A second agreed: "This is a great series based on the two seasons I have watched. Hint: You'll not want to miss the Season 2 finale and everything which leads up to it. Netflix deserves our thanks for this worthwhile show."

Another described it as an "exceptionally great Italian series", while someone else believes it is "on par with Outlander, if not better".

A fifth echoed: "This TV series is so so so well written and made its adventures entertaining. You must go watch this tv series!! So far both two seasons are phenomenal."