BBC's latest war drama has viewers watching every episode in one sitting
The BBC's latest period drama, The Narrow Road to the Deep North, has become an instant hit with viewers who have been binge watching all five episodes in one sitting.
Based on Richard Flanagan's Booker Prize-winning novel, the series spans 50 years and follows the life of Dorrigo Evans. From a passionate, forbidden romance with Amy Mulvaney to the harrowing experiences of a Japanese prisoner-of-war camp, and later life as a respected surgeon haunted by his past, the story is both captivating and gripping.
As well as having a heart-wrenching storyline, the series boasts a stellar cast including Saltburn star Jacob Elordi, who portrays the younger Dorrigo and Ciarán Hinds, known for his role in Game of Thrones, taking on the role of older Dorrigo.
According to the BBC's synopsis, the series is "an intimate character study of a complex man, a compelling portrayal of the courage and cruelty of war, and an unforgettable love story that endures through the darkest times."
It follows Dorrigo, a Lieutenant Colonel and army surgeon, tracing his journey from a passionate affair with his first love to the brutal realities of a Japanese POW (prisoners of war) camp in Burma, and eventually to his conflicted later years as a decorated war hero.
Unsurprisingly the series has an impressive 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with viewers hailing it as an "absolute masterpiece."
Many viewers have been deeply moved by the series, describing it as "captivating," "tragic" and "outstanding." As well as sharing how they couldn't stop watching once they started, bingeing it all in one sitting.
One viewer who reviewed the show said: "Watched all 5 in one evening. Very good series. War and love. Great acting, lovely soundtrack and a glimpse into the pain and suffering of WW2 and letting go of the love of your life," while another stated: "You guys should check out The Narrow Road to the Deep North. An outstanding series. Not an easy watch, but well worth it."
Another recommended the series, saying: "While I can't speak to the historical accuracy of the show, it was easily one of the most jarring, tragic, and captivating stories I've seen in a long time."
While a forth stated: "Disturbing, dark and brilliant. Hard to watch or even think about, but also riveting. The music is perfection and captures the feelings and confusion of the times. Stellar performances!"
On filming the intense scenes during Dorrigo's time as a prisoner of war, lead star Jacob said: "For me that was the greatest part of the whole experience. It was like being in a massive theatre production that was constantly playing, and I'll forever be indebted to those boys in the jungle that made it feel so real."
"There was no CGI or adding of bodies or anything like that. We had a limited crew, with very little hair and make-up touches. We carried a real tree up the side of a cliff for I don't know how many hours," he concluded.
Meanwhile Ciarán said he was drawn to taking the role after reading the novel.
"It's more than 12 years old now, and it was a formidable read," he told the BBC, adding: "It was extraordinary. It was harrowing, heartbreaking, a kind of epic storytelling."
The Narrow Road to the Deep North is available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
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