Today, “based on a true story” or “inspired by true events” is a common description of various films or novels. And one of the first novels to do this, well, actually it was a series published over the course of two years (1844-1846), was Alexandre Dumas’ (pronounced without the ‘s’ as it is a French name) The Count of Monte Cristo.

The life story of Alex Dumas is a story of intrigue, courage, and victory over injustice, just as fascinating as the life story of his lead character, Edmond Dantès, who goes on to become the Count of Monte Cristo.

In a new adaptation of Dumas classic tale of vengeance, originally released in 2024, this 8-part series is being released this Sunday, March 22, on PBS Masterpiece, and it is worth watching. Having had the opportunity to preview the entire series earlier this month, I quickly realized I wanted to select it as a Petit Plaisir because not only is the story told in all its detail (the original novel is more than 1200 pages long), but the videography capturing Paris is exquisitely done. Taking place primarily on the Île de Cîte and Île St. Louis, viewers return to the early 19th-century Parisian streets, décor, and styles of attire, and with each episode discover a fondness for Edmond Dantès, who has his freedom unjustly ripped away from him due to jealousy and three men’s desire for power, doing whatever they must to acquire it.

Following nearly 15 years in prison, during which time, he befriends a fellow prisoner Abbé Faria (played by Jeremy Irons), he is given information by Abbé of a treasure yet unfound on the island of Monte Cristo, and so, as the story goes and those who know it well, Edmond eventually escapes, finds his way to the island and locates a lifetime and then some of treasure to secure his future.

The first two episodes recount his imprisonment, and the remaining six episodes, as our sympathy for his plight to avenge those who wronged him is understood, we observe his intelligence, as well as strong bonds between those who know of his past and loyally stand beside him, helping him at all costs. Towards his enemies, the Count never does them direct harm, but rather creates circumstances that let them reveal their true character so that they will bring about their own downfall.

Sam Clafkin stars as the Count of Monte Cristo and is also an executive producer of the series. You will also likely recognize a few other actors who play primary roles. If you are a fan of AcornTV’s Agatha Raisin, you will find Jason Barnett playing Caderousse, and from The Gilded Age Blake Ritson playing Danglars.

Needless to say, as I have been curious to read the entire series for many years, watching the series has encouraged me to get about doing so. (Shop this beautiful book containing the entire saga.)

Have a look at the trailer below and begin watching the series, The Count of Monte Cristo, this Sunday, March 22nd, on PBS Masterpiece.

The Count of Monte Cristo was chosen as the Petit Plaisir for episode #422 of The Simple Sophisticate podcast, How to Embrace Uncertainty and Why It Leads to a Fulfilling Life

~Explore more Petit Plaisirs in TSLL’s Archives.

~Explore more French-inspired Petit Plaisirs here.