Christmas offers the ideal opportunity to unwind with a sumptuous, emotionally charged romance, and Netflix has delivered just that this week.

With the festive period fast approaching, viewers will be seeking the finest films to either revisit or discover for the first time once they’ve finished their turkey, trimmings and chocolates.

Fortunately, streaming giant Netflix boasts an extensive library of seasonal classics and cherished favourites, with new additions arriving daily.

Devotees of period drama can also celebrate as Joe Wright’s acclaimed 2005 adaptation of Pride and Prejudice is now available to stream for all Netflix subscribers.

This interpretation of Jane Austen’s timeless novel, regarded by enthusiasts as among the finest adaptations, features Keira Knightley as Elizabeth Bennet, a spirited young woman whose initial encounter with the apparently haughty Mr Darcy (portrayed by Matthew Macfadyen) goes awry, reports <a href=”https://www.mirror.co.uk/tv/tv-news/period-drama-romance-streaming-netflix-36439305″ rel=”Follow” target=”_self”>the Mirror</a>.

Boasting a remarkable 87 percent critics’ score on Rotten Tomatoes – alongside an even more impressive 90 percent audience rating – Pride and Prejudice (2005) is essential viewing for period drama enthusiasts seeking a dependable favourite after finishing their Christmas dinner.

One glowing 10/10 review from an IMDb user declared it: “Unarguably the finest love story of all time. The themes and characters in the film are all beautiful and timeless.

“The gorgeous landscapes mixed with the pouring rain and the entrancing score create an utterly joyous experience throughout. A seamless blend of side-splitting humour, gut-wrenching drama and the most passionate and beautiful romance ever brought to screen.”

Another viewer declared: “Pride and Prejudice was the best movie I’ve seen in a very long time, if not the best I’ve ever seen.

“This movie is a work of art, an emotional masterpiece. Watching this movie was actually a life changing experience.”

A third praised the 2005 version as “the best Pride and Prejudice adaptation to date”, noting: “Joe Wright creates a brilliant visual of Jane Austen’s classic novel. The imagery of the film is quite breathtaking itself. The setting of the scenes range from the British countryside to the extravagant ballrooms.

“Best love movie ever,” one devoted admirer proclaimed. “I watch movies a lot with my husband. That is what we love to do. And I must say that this movie has captured my heart. It is now my favourite love movie of all time. I don’t go changing my favourite movie all the time either. I thought it was charming and witty.

“Not only is it funny and interesting. But it’s one of the best love stories of all time! I find myself normally being disappointed or bored when watching movies based in that time. But this movie is by far anything but. I’ve watched it 6 times in 3 days. And trust me I don’t do that stuff!

“I highly recommend this movie to anyone looking for a love story of all stories. It has captured my heart. I don’t think I have been this passionate about a movie since I was little.”

Will Pride and Prejudice feature on your festive viewing schedule this year?

Pride and Prejudice is available to stream on Netflix.