Is 'House of Guinness' a Must-See? Yes, if You're a Fan of 'Downton Abbey', Not 'Peaky Blinders'

Steven Knight's new series, House of Guinness, has finally premiered. This historical drama tells about the famous Irish family that created one of the world's most popular beer brands.

However, fans expecting a new Peaky Blinders series may be disappointed, and here's why.

What Is 'House of Guinness' About?

The story is set in Dublin in 1868. Following the death of the family patriarch his four children – impulsive Arthur, calculating Edward, kind-hearted Anne, and Ben, who struggles with alcoholism – assume control of the family's brewing empire.

Not only must they expand the beer business, but they must also strengthen the family's political influence during a period of intense struggle between Irish Republicans and Conservatives.

The series details how the Guinnesses engage in philanthropy, build affordable housing, implement pension programs for workers, and navigate fierce competition.

'House of Guinness' Doesn't Live up to the Drama & Tension We Loved 'Peaky Blinders' For

House of Guinness tries to recreate the successful formula of Peaky Blinders – a family saga involving business, politics, street fights, and conspiracies – but does so considerably less convincingly.

While Tommy Shelby and his family evoked both admiration and fear with their criminal past and brute force, the Guinnesses seem too placid with their noble initiatives and beer-fueled boardrooms.

They lack the dangerous charisma that kept viewers gripped by Shelby's every move. Conflicts are resolved in offices rather than dark alleys, which deprives the story of Knight's signature adrenaline rush.

Instead of taking us on a fascinating tour through the dark backstage of Guinness, Steven Knight offers a surprisingly superficial and cautious guide to one family's history, hinting at intrigue but never revealing it.

'House of Guinness' Is Still a Show Worth Watching & a Crime Soap Opera We Deserve

Despite its flaws, House of Guinness is still a well-made, engaging series. It's best described as a crime soap opera, a mix of Downton Abbey and Peaky Blinders.

It has it all: forbidden romances, betrayals, struggles over inheritance, and unexpected cliffhangers. A brilliant cast and rich historical atmosphere create a pleasant viewing experience.

House of Guinness won't replace Peaky Blinders in your personal rankings, but it will brighten a few evenings if you enjoy family sagas with political and criminal overtones.

What Did Critics & Viewers Think of 'House of Guinness'?

• House of Guinness has 87% from critics and 62% from viewers on Rotten Tomatoes.

• On IMDb, the crime series has a score of 7.4/10.

Where to Watch 'House of Guinness'?

House of Guinness is available to stream on Netflix.