Period and historical dramas are the ultimate form of escapist comfort viewing. Luckily, some of the classic BBC dramas are currently being streamed on other global platforms. One Apple TV+ addition is a lavish series of filmed adaptations of four of Shakespeare's most gripping plays. The Hollow Crown, described by fans as "utterly sublime", details the rise and fall of three Kings. If you know your Shakespeare well, the Bard wrote several iconic plays based on English monarchs: Richard II, Henry IV, Part 1, Henry IV, Part 2, Richard III, Henry V, and Henry VI. In season one, the Kings are played by some of the country's finest actors: Ben Whishaw, Jeremy Irons, and Tom Hiddleston.

Not only that, the three are supported by an incredible cast, including Rory Kinnear, Patrick Stewart, David Suchet, David Morrissey, John Hurt, Michelle Dockery, Julie Walters, and Maxine Peake. All set in their authentic medieval period, the first series premiered in 2012.

On IMDb, the series received glowing reviews from critics and fans watching at home. One fan said online: "Arguably one of the very best screen adaptations of Shakespeare ever produced. They have pulled off what many have tried and failed to do: make good cinema out of the plays. The necessary realism is there, without detracting in any way from the source material. And the acting is for the most part really superb."

Another also commented: "Utterly sublime Shakespeare. [...] Thank you, whoever had the common sense to commission and nurture these productions; the best thing I have seen on my television this year."

A third also chimed in: "I was highly impressed at the amount of talent in this BBC production. I can't believe I have never seen this! I would say that the finale of season 1 and the finale of season 2 was my absolute favorites."

What's more, The Hollow Crown was awarded with two BAFTA Television Awards for Ben Whishaw (Leading Actor) and Simon Russell Beale (Supporting Actor), and an RTS Programme Award for Single Drama (Richard II).

Season Two of The Hollow Crown also features screen adaptations of Shakespeare's Richard III and Henry VI. Benedict Cumberbatch plays the ill-fated King Richard III, with Tom Sturridge as Henry VI. With plenty of epic mud battles, the second series is just as thrilling if you're in a late-medieval mood.

The Hollow Crown can be streamed on Apple TV+.