Prime Video’s latest offering, The Narrow Road to the Deep North, is captivating critics, yet it seems to be flying under the radar for many viewers. Released on April 18, this WWII romantic drama has yet to break into the top charts in any country it’s streaming in (it’s not accessible in the UK at the moment). However, the lack of widespread viewership should not overshadow its quality; those who’ve tuned in are singing its praises, awarding it a flawless 100% on Rotten Tomatoes.
A Look at the Show
Co-created and directed by Justin Kurzel of Assassin’s Creed fame, the series follows soldier Dorrigo Evans through three significant periods: before deployment, during his time as a prisoner of war, and later in the 1980s. Jacob Elordi takes on the role of young Dorrigo, while Ciarán Hinds portrays the older version. The narrative intricately weaves Dorrigo’s poignant romance with his uncle’s wife, Amy (played by Odessa Young), before the war, showcasing how that love both uplifts and torments him throughout his harrowing experiences in a Burmese POW camp.
In his later years, Dorrigo emerges as a celebrated surgeon and war hero, contending with the haunting memories of his past, the burden of his affair, and the trauma of surviving one of WWII’s most brutal conflicts. Adapted from Richard Flanagan’s acclaimed novel, the series spans five gripping episodes, expertly contrasting the three timelines. The performances by Elordi and Hinds deliver a striking commentary on love’s complexities, painfully mirroring the chaos of war.
Critical Acclaim
With a perfect score on Rotten Tomatoes, the critical feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. The Guardian labeled the series as “elegant and poetic,” commending the actors’ performances as two sides of the same character. Similarly, The New York Times praised Elordi’s "terrific" portrayal, lauding the series for seamlessly blending a doomed romance, intricate domestic drama, and a harrowing war story. The BBC also highlighted Elordi’s performance, dubbing the drama a “stunning showcase.”
Viewer Reactions
While the Rotten Tomatoes audience score is a solid 70%, the reception on platforms like Reddit reveals an even more enthusiastic response. One user remarked, “That was perfect […] worth every minute of my time,” while another added, “That was powerful […] solid work.” A third comment celebrated the storytelling, cinematography, and music, expressing awe at the overall production.
Currently available on Prime Video in the US, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, with plans to stream on BBC iPlayer in the UK later this year, The Narrow Road to the Deep North deserves a spot on your watchlist. This emotionally charged series is a profound blend of bleakness, hope, brutality, and uplifting moments, making it a must-see for drama enthusiasts.
Don’t Miss Out
Make sure to check out the latest deals on Amazon Prime Video to catch this hidden gem!
