Restoration

If you want romantic drama that respects your intelligence, Restoration is available in the US on Hoopla, and in the UK on Paramount Plus right now. A tight runtime that never overstays its welcome. 139 people have weighed in on TMDB, and the verdict leans heavily positive. Robert Downey Jr. Carries the emotional throughline with real conviction. Available now on Hoopla — press play and find out why people keep recommending it.

Whatever else is competing for your attention this week, Restoration is worth clearing space for. What makes Restoration work is that the obstacles feel real, not manufactured for the plot. An aspiring young physician, Robert Merivel found himself in the service of King Charles II and saves the life of someone close to the King. Merivel joins the King's court and lives the high life provided to someone of his position. Merivel is ordered to marry his King's mistress in order to divert the queens suspicions. Robert Downey Jr. And Meg Ryan lead a cast whose chemistry carries the emotional beats. It hit screens in 1995. The relationship at the centre of Restoration develops at a pace that feels earned rather than rushed for plot reasons. There is real craft here, even in the moments that do not fully land.

Romance fans and drama viewers alike will find something to love in Restoration. It stands on its own even without an obvious comparison point. A contained runtime means every scene is doing real work. The chemistry Robert Downey Jr. Brings to it is the engine that drives everything. A rarer quality than it sounds — earning the romantic beats rather than assuming them.

Restoration was released in 1995, directed by Michael Hoffman. The full 117-minute film is available to watch now. Find exactly where it's streaming below, and TV Butler Pro makes it effortless to track your progress as you go. Just search the name, and Butler finds it instantly, tells you which service has it, and remembers exactly where you left off.