Have you seen it yet?

Virtually the only new Netflix show worthy of discussion is the fantastically enjoyable Bridgerton, the hokeyest soapiest slice of period drama since time began.

Based on a series of novels, this eight-part series is Netflix at its most generous with lavish costumes, glitzy settings and more regency balls than anyone else.

Following the fortunes of two families during the debutante season and beyond, the show focuses on young Daphne Bridgerton, eldest daughter of the Bridgerton family, and her romantic dilemmas. These and many more dilemmas, romantic and otherwise, are covered by an anonymous leaflet writer, Lady Whistledown (stay with it) who scandalises society with her acerbic revelations.

This is a hugely-addictive series, perfect for the dark nights, with such an array of famous actors that you’re never far away from wondering ‘where have I seen them before?’

Indeed the main problem with the show is the cavalcade of vaguely recognisable actors means many characters don’t get the attention they deserve. The friendship between Claudia Jessie’s proto-feminist Eloise and Nicola Coughlan’s Penelope is the best thing on show here, but never quite gets space to flourish.

Bridgerton walks the line between brilliant and hammy with verve, but beware, after five chaste episodes it gets decidedly racy, which just adds to the fun.

Anyone after more genuinely sedate period entertainment should watch Mr Holmes on BBC iPlayer.

Ian McKellen plays Sherlock in this excellent 2015 film, this time featuring the detective battling the ravages of old age. With his memory failing, Holmes looks back on a case that haunted him for years and caused him to retire. A beautifully made film, Mr Holmes is a worthy entry in the canon of the famous man.