You’ve undoubtedly heard of Bridgerton by now, even if you don’t typically watch historical dramas. Netflix’s immensely popular Regency-era romance has gained a reputation for its slow-burn love stories, lavish visuals, and just the right amount of scandal to keep viewers interested. Whether you are aware of how Netflix divides its seasons or not, Season 4, Part One is obviously the first chapter of a larger love story. This time, the show finally focuses entirely on Benedict Bridgerton, and Part One is devoted to laying the emotional, romantic, and social groundwork for what will undoubtedly be a challenging journey.Â
Benedict is still very much in his old position at the beginning of the season: charming, restless, and uncertain of his place in a society that wants him to be happy with privilege and tradition. When he meets Sophie Baek at a masquerade ball, one of the most visually stunning scenes the show has produced in a long time, of course, that all changes. As is typical of Bridgerton, their instantaneous but brief connection is followed by miscommunication, parting, and a good dose of dramatic irony. Benedict is enthralled with the enigmatic woman in silver from the ball, but he has no idea that she has already returned to his life under quite different circumstances.Â
The length of time it takes to create Sophie as a fully realised character is what makes Part One particularly effective. More consideration is given to her role as a maid, her complex past, and the way she navigates a society stacked against her are handled with more care than some past love interests have received. This also forces Benedict into uncomfortable self-reflection. Although there is still plenty of Bridgerton yearning, their romance feels more emotionally real than just swoon-worthy when his developing feelings collide with his deeply held beliefs about class.Â
The subplots help flesh out the season without overwhelming it. Francesca and John adjust to married life, providing lighter moments and a sense of continuity, while Eloise’s storyline hints at bigger ideological conflicts still to come. Lady Whistledown remains a quieter but still constant presence, and the tension around her builds as her secret identity is out in the Open for eager mamas to use.Â
Part One’s visuals are quintessential Bridgerton: extravagant gowns, ballrooms lighted by candles, and contemporary pop songs covers that manage to stay relevant. Although it feels deliberate, the pace is slower than in earlier seasons. There isn’t a rush to declarations of love; it’s a careful build. The emotional stakes are well established by the end of Part One, and Benedict and Sophie’s challenges seem quite overwhelming.Â
 If there is a drawback The season purposefully withholds payoff. If you’re looking for a closure, it can be a little annoying when a tale seems to end just as it’s getting intriguing. It does a good job as a first half, though, drawing you in, making you care about the characters, and making you want to watch more right away.Â
All things considered, Bridgerton Season 4, Part One is a thoughtful, romantic slow burn. Without sacrificing the glitz for which the series is renowned, it tends to focus more on character development than spectacle. Even while it doesn’t provide all the drama at once, it does establish a solid framework, and by the time it’s over, you’re eagerly awaiting Part Two.Â