The House of Guinness, a Netflix series created by Steven Knight, receives generally positive to mixed reviews. It is praised for its engaging family drama centered on the Guinness brewing dynasty following the death of its patriarch in 1868, with strong performances from the cast, especially James Norton and Anthony Boyle. The series has a stylish, modern vibe with an exciting, modern soundtrack and dramatic storytelling, drawing some comparisons to Knight's previous hit Peaky Blinders. Reviewers emphasize the show's entertainment value rather than historical accuracy, noting it is a loose fictionalization rather than a documentary. It portrays the siblings' power struggles and the turbulent political backdrop of Ireland's revolutionary period. The pacing and visual style are occasionally seen as uneven or forced, with some describing the show as sluggish or over-stylized. Nevertheless, it is overall considered a captivating drama for viewers interested in family power dynamics and Irish history. Summary of reception points:
- Strong acting and engaging family saga with twists and drama.
- Stylish visuals and modern soundtrack, but sometimes feels forced or slow.
- Not historically accurate but entertaining and accessible as a drama.
- Compared to Peaky Blinders, it lacks some of the same intensity but remains worth watching.
- Good for fans of historical family dramas and those intrigued by the Guinness legacy.
Overall, House of Guinness is recommended as an entertaining period drama with a focus on family, power, and ambition, rather than strict historical fidelity.
