Movies and Shows Like Anne of Green Gables
I’ve adored L.M. Montgomery’s works since I was a kid. My fascination began with the amazing Kevin Sullivan adaptation of Anne of Green Gables. I laughed, cried, and even dreamed of marrying someone like Gilbert Blythe, who was my Mr. Darcy.
Naturally, I had to read the original Anne of Green Gables. That led me to discover my favorite, Emily of New Moon, with its touch of the supernatural. Sadly, I’m still waiting for a definitive adaptation of that series. Road to Avonlea also holds a special place in my heart, as I believe Sullivan’s productions are some of the finest period dramas ever.
After watching these shows, I longed to visit the enchanting Prince Edward Island, and it did not disappoint when I finally did. But I wanted more stories that gave me the same feelings as Anne. So, I compiled a list of period dramas worth watching for those who love Kevin Sullivan’s Anne of Green Gables.
85 Period Dramas to Watch if You Love Anne of Green Gables (Mostly in Alphabetical Order)
1. Anne of Green Gables (1934)
– Why you’ll love it: The lead actress loved the role so much she changed her name to Anne Shirley. It was a top-seller in 1934.
– Watch on: Watch TCM (with a cable subscription) or buy on DVD.
2. Anne of Avonlea (1975)
– Why you’ll love it: Although the first Anne film is lost, this 1970s mini-series is delightful for those familiar with the story.
– Watch on: DVD.
3. Anne of Green Gables (1985)
– Why you’ll love it: This adaptation is uplifting with superb dialogue, cast performances, and humor. It leaves you yearning to visit Prince Edward Island.
– Watch on: Gazebo TV app, DVD/Blu-Ray.
4. Anne of Avonlea (1987)
– Why you’ll love it: This sequel brings Anne and Gilbert their deserved happy ending while keeping the spirit of the original books alive.
– Watch on: Gazebo TV app, DVD/Blu-Ray.
5. Anne of Green Gables: The Continuing Story (2000)
– Why you’ll love it: While not Montgomery’s original, the film features strong chemistry between Megan Follows and Jonathan Crombie with a moving WWI storyline.
– Watch on: Gazebo TV app, DVD/Blu-Ray.
6. Anne of Green Gables: A New Beginning (2008)
– Why you’ll love it: It’s a fresh take from Kevin Sullivan’s company, featuring a cameo from Patricia Hamilton as Rachel Lynde.
– Watch on: Gazebo TV app, DVD/Blu-Ray.
7. L.M. Montgomery’s Anne of Green Gables (2016)
– Why you’ll love it: These new films stay true to Anne of Green Gables and offer enjoyable interpretations.
– Watch on: PBS Masterpiece Amazon Channel, Hoopla, Digital, DVD.
8. Anne with an E (2017-2020)
– Why you’ll love it: Initially darker than the books, this series grows on you with its excellent production and characterization.
– Watch on: Netflix, Amazon, DVD.
9. Alias Grace (2017)
– Why you’ll love it: Adapted by Sarah Polley from Margaret Atwood’s novel, it features captivating storytelling with familiar faces from Avonlea.
– Watch on: Netflix, DVD.
10. Annie (1982)
– Why you’ll love it: Another delightful period drama about a red-haired orphan, full of entertaining songs.
– Watch on: Peacock, Watch TCM, Digital, DVD.
11. Arthurian Period Dramas
– Why you’ll love them: Anne loved Arthurian tales, and you can enjoy many adaptations including Merlin, First Knight, and Camelot.
– Watch on: Various streaming platforms and digital purchases.
12. Avonlea (1990-1996)
– Why you’ll love it: A sequel to Sullivan’s Anne series with equally compelling characters and stories.
– Watch on: Gazebo TV app, DVD.
13. Back to Hannibal (1990)
– Why you’ll love it: Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn are grown up in this well-done sequel, featuring Megan Follows as Becky.
– Watch on: DVD.
14. Ballet Shoes (2007)
– Why you’ll love it: A sweet story about three orphans chasing their dreams, perfect for family watching.
– Watch on: Peacock, Freevee, Roku, Digital, DVD.
15. Becoming Jane (2007)
– Why you’ll love it: This fictionalized biopic about Jane Austen is perfect for those who appreciate young female writers and swoony romance.
– Watch on: Paramount+, Digital, DVD.
16. Belle (2013)
– Why you’ll love it: A romantic tale of an orphan raised by her uncle, set in the eighteenth century with a mixed-race twist.
– Watch on: HBO Max, Digital, DVD.
17. Berkeley Square (1998)
– Why you’ll love it: Follows three Edwardian nannies, resembling Anne’s teaching experiences.
– Watch on: DVD.
18. By Way of the Stars (1992)
– Why you’ll love it: Another period drama from Sullivan’s company, starring actors from Road to Avonlea.
– Watch on: Gazebo TV app, DVD.
19. Call the Midwife (2012-)
– Why you’ll love it: With themes of strong female friendships and compelling characters, it’s a must-watch.
– Watch on: Netflix, Hoopla, PBS Passport, Digital, DVD.
20. Christy (1994)
– Why you’ll love it: Full of optimistic and inspirational period fare akin to When Calls the Heart.
– Watch on: DVD.
21. Cinderella (2015)
– Why you’ll love it: A mistreated orphan with a sweet romance and stunning costumes.
– Watch on: Digital, DVD.
22. Courage Mountain (1990)
– Why you’ll love it: A sequel where Heidi grows up and falls in love, great for families.
– Watch on: Hoopla, Tubi, Digital, DVD.
23. Cranford (2008) and Return to Cranford (2010)
– Why you’ll love them: Set in a small town, featuring older ‘spinsters’ like Marilla Cuthbert.
– Watch on: BritBox, Digital, DVD.
24. Cross Creek (1983)
– Why you’ll love it: A biopic about the author of The Yearling, exploring her love for Cross Creek.
– Watch on: Digital, DVD.
25. Doctor Thorne (2016)
– Why you’ll love it: From Downton Abbey’s creator, a Trollope novel adaptation with star-crossed romance.
– Watch on: Prime Video, Digital, DVD.
26. Downton Abbey (2010-2015; 2019; 2022)
– Why you’ll love it: Edwardian Era, WWI romance, and memorable love stories galore.
– Watch on: Prime Video, Peacock, PBS Passport, Britbox, Roku, Digital, DVD.
27. Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman (1993-1998)
– Why you’ll love it: Similar themes to Avonlea with epic romance and engaging characters.
– Watch on: Pluto TV, Freevee, Digital, DVD.
28. The Durrells in Corfu (2016-2019)
– Why you’ll love it: British series with humor and intriguing family dynamics.
– Watch on: Prime Video, PBS Passport, Digital, DVD.
29. Emily of New Moon (1998-2000)
– Why you’ll love it: Initially disappointing but improves greatly, embedding scenes from the books.
– Watch on: Hallmark Movies Now, DVD.
30. The Englishman Who Went Up a Hill But Came Down a Mountain (1995)
– Why you’ll love it: An underrated, funny, and romantic film with charming townsfolk.
– Watch on: Hoopla, Digital, DVD.
31. Ever After: A Cinderella Story (1998)
– Why you’ll love it: Another period drama about a mistreated orphan with a brilliant evil stepmother.
– Watch on: STARZ, Digital, DVD.
32. Far From the Madding Crowd (2015)
– Why you’ll love it: Features a faithful and swoon-worthy romantic hero, Gabriel Oak.
– Watch on: Digital, DVD.
33. Finding Neverland (2004)
– Why you’ll love it: A biopic capturing the imagination of J.M. Barrie, full of charm.
– Watch on: Showtime, Digital, DVD.
34. A Good Woman (2004)
– Why you’ll love it: Intelligent dialogue and a delightful, underrated story.
– Watch on: Hoopla, Roku, Freevee, Digital, DVD.
35. Grand Hotel (2011-2013)
– Why you’ll love it: Spanish Edwardian period drama with sweeping romances.
– Watch on: Pantaya (Spanish only), DVD.
36. The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society (2018)
– Why you’ll love it: A nostalgic and romantic period drama with an old-fashioned charm.
– Watch on: Netflix, DVD.
37. Hanako & Anne (2014)
– Why you’ll love it: A Japanese period drama about the translator who brought Anne of Green Gables to Japan.
– Watch on: DVD (with English subtitles if available).
38. Heidi (1937)
– Why you’ll love it: A classic Shirley Temple movie about an orphan softening her grandfather’s heart.
– Watch on: Digital, DVD.
39. Hidden Places (2006)
– Why you’ll love it: A wholesome period romance reminiscent of old TV Disney movies.
– Watch on: DVD.
40. The Importance of Being Earnest (2002)
– Why you’ll love it: A hilarious Edwardian romantic comedy perfect for light entertainment.
– Watch on: HBO Max, Digital, DVD.
41. Jane Austen Adaptations
– Why you’ll love them: From Pride and Prejudice to Northanger Abbey, devour every adaptation.
– Watch on: Various platforms.
42. Jane Eyre (2006)
– Why you’ll love it: For fans of orphan period dramas with epic romance and darker tones, this adaptation is highly recommended.
– Watch on: BritBox, Hulu, Digital, DVD.
43. A Jewel in the Palace (2003)
– Why you’ll love it: A compelling Korean drama about an orphan’s journey.
– Watch on: Viki, DVD.
44. The Journey of Natty Gann (1985)
– Why you’ll love it: A memorable Disney film about a brave teen girl during the Great Depression.
– Watch on: Disney+, Digital, DVD.
45. Ladies in Lavender (2004)
– Why you’ll love it: Explores the lives of older women with Judi Dench and Maggie Smith.
– Watch on: Digital, DVD.
46. Lantern Hill (1989)
– Why you’ll love it: An obscure, excellent L.M. Montgomery adaptation directed by Kevin Sullivan.
– Watch on: Gazebo TV app, DVD.
47. Lark Rise to Candleford (2008-2011)
– Why you’ll love it: A small-town British drama with romance, gossip, and an aspiring writer.
– Watch on: BritBox, Digital, DVD.
48. The Lightkeepers (2009)
– Why you’ll love it: A romantic period piece with lighthouses and characters over 50.
– Watch on: Freevee, Digital, DVD.
49. Little House on the Prairie (1974-1983)
– Why you’ll love it: This beloved family drama remains a classic.
– Watch on: Peacock, Freevee, Digital, DVD.
50. Little Men (1998-1999)
– Why you’ll love it: A wholesome series full of heart, akin to Canadian period dramas.
– Watch on: Peacock, Roku, Digital, DVD.
51. A Little Princess (1995)
– Why you’ll love it: Embraces fairy tales and imagination with grace, directed by Alfonso Cuarón.
– Watch on: Netflix, Digital, DVD.
52. Little Women (1994)
– Why you’ll love it: Jo March’s fiery nature mirrors Anne Shirley, and the 1994 adaptation is top-notch.
– Watch on: Freevee, Tubi, Digital, DVD.
53. Little Women (2018)
– Why you’ll love it: Despite not being entirely authentic, it’s well done with Angela Lansbury as Aunt March.
– Watch on: PBS Passport, Prime Video, Digital, DVD.
54. Looking for Miracles (1989)
– Why you’ll love it: Directed by Kevin Sullivan, this film about brothers stars a young Zachary Bennett.
– Watch on: Gazebo TV app, DVD.
55. Love Comes Softly Movies (2013-2011)
– Why you’ll love them: Charming and heartwarming period dramas ideal for Anne fans.
– Watch on: Hoopla, DVD.
56. Love on the Land (1999)
– Why you’ll love it: A romantic period drama from Sullivan with engaging characters.
– Watch on: Gazebo TV app, DVD.
57. Pollyanna (2003)
– Why you’ll love it: A British adaptation perfect for Anne fans, featuring Tom Ellis.
– Watch on: PBS Masterpiece Amazon channel, Hoopla, Digital, DVD.
58. Polly: Comin’ Home (1990)
– Why you’ll love it: A fabulous adaptation of Pollyanna with a black cast and Broadway-style songs.
– Watch on: DVD.
59. The Magic of Ordinary Days (2005)
– Why you’ll love it: A heartwarming romance with a happily-ever-after feel.
– Watch on: Hallmark Movies Now, Hoopla, Digital, DVD.
60. The Man from Snowy River (1982)
– Why you’ll love it: An Australian romantic period drama suitable for families.
– Watch on: STARZ, Digital, DVD.
61. Mansfield Park (1999)
– Why you’ll love it: A combination of the novel and Jane Austen’s life makes for an engaging story.
– Watch on: Hoopla, Tubi, Digital, DVD.
62. Mary Poppins Returns (2018)
– Why you’ll love it: Nostalgic and feel-good, with a sweet romance and magical elements.
– Watch on: Disney+, Digital, DVD.
63. Mercy Street (2016)
– Why you’ll love it: For fans of historical dramas about women making a difference.
– Watch on: PBS Passport, Digital, DVD.
64. Middlemarch (1994)
– Why you’ll love it: A British period drama with memorable female characters in a small town.
– Watch on: BritBox, DVD.
65. Miss Austen Regrets (2008)
– Why you’ll love it: An intelligent biopic about Jane Austen’s life and writing.
– Watch on: BritBox, Plex, Crackle, DVD.
66. Miss Potter (2006)
– Why you’ll love it: A well-done biopic with a beautiful romance, perfect for aspiring female writers.
– Watch on: Hoopla, Tubi, Digital, DVD.
67. The New Adventures of Pippi Longstocking (1988)
– Why you’ll love it: A nostalgic film about a fun redheaded girl.
– Watch on: Tubi, Digital, DVD.
68. The Paradise (2012)
– Why you’ll love it: Strong female characters and a focus on dreams and romance.
– Watch on: BritBox, Digital, DVD.
69. Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm (1938)
– Why you’ll love it: A classic adaptation for fans of Anne of Green Gables.
– Watch on: Digital, DVD.
70. Reign (2013-2017)
– Why you’ll love it: Megan Follows shines as Catherine de Medici in this entertaining historical fantasy.
– Watch on: Netflix with ads, CW Seed, Digital, DVD.
71. A Room with A View (1985)
– Why you’ll love it: Captures the elegance and romance of the Edwardian Era.
– Watch on: HBO Max, The Criterion Channel, Digital, DVD.
72. Rose Hill (1997)
– Why you’ll love it: A wholesome family movie with a young Jennifer Garner.
– Watch on: Hallmark Movies Now, DVD.
73. The Ruby Ring (1997)
– Why you’ll love it: A fun time travel movie with romance and historical settings.
– Watch on: Hoopla, Tubi, Vudu, Digital, DVD.
74. Sarah, Plain and Tall (1991)
– Why you’ll love it: A charming story with authentic chemistry between Glenn Close and Christopher Walken.
– Watch on: DVD.
75. The Secret Garden (1993)
– Why you’ll love it: A beloved children’s classic adaptation with beautiful storytelling.
– Watch on: HBO Max, DVD.
76. Sweet Land (2005)
– Why you’ll love it: A sweet romance for fans of Anne and Gilbert’s love story.
– Watch on: Pluto TV, Tubi, Digital, DVD.
77. Tea with Mussolini (1999)
– Why you’ll love it: Highlights female friendships and conversations with an incredible cast.
– Watch on: DVD.
78. Under the Piano (1996)
– Why you’ll love it: Megan Follows stars in this lovely period drama produced by Kevin Sullivan.
– Watch on: Gazebo TV app, DVD.
79. Victoria (2016-)
– Why you’ll love it: A romantic period drama series perfect for fans of puffed sleeves and grand stories.
– Watch on: PBS Passport, Prime
