The Miniaturist

The 2017 British historical drama television series with elements of mysticism, directed by Guillem Morales and based on Jessie Burton's debut novel of the same name, follows the story of young Petronella "Nella" Oortman (Anya Taylor-Joy), who moves to Amsterdam in 1686 to begin a new life with wealthy merchant Johannes Brandt (Alex Hassell). Upon arrival, she is met with a cold reception from his sister Marin (Romola Garai) and indifference from her husband. As a wedding gift, Johannes presents Nella with a miniature house, an exact replica of their mansion. Nella commissions miniatures from a mysterious artisan who begins sending her items that reflect and predict events in her life. As the plot unfolds, dark secrets of the Brandt family are revealed, including Johannes's forbidden relationships, Marin's hidden pregnancy, and her past engagement to Frans Meermans (Geoffrey Streatfeild). Nella becomes entangled in a complex web of intrigue, betrayal, and societal prejudice, striving to save her husband from charges of sodomy that threaten him with execution. The series explores themes of female emancipation, religious hypocrisy, and social isolation, highlighting the struggle for freedom and self-expression in a society where outward prosperity conceals deep internal conflicts. The cast also includes Hayley Squires (Cornelia), Paapa Essiedu (Otto), Emily Berrington (The Miniaturist), and Ziggy Heath (Jack Philips). The series comprises two episodes and was first broadcast on BBC One on December 26 and 27, 2017.