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This BBC Three drama based on Sally Rooney’s bestselling novel is coming to Netflix soon

A beloved BBC drama adapted from a bestselling novel that readers have described as “perfect” is arriving on Netflix by the end of this week.

Boasting a stellar cast of familiar faces from the UK, Ireland and the USA, the eight-part series originally debuted in 2022.

Adapted from Sally Rooney’s debut novel, Conversations With Friends didn’t quite achieve the cultural phenomenon status of its BBC predecessor, Normal People, which captivated audiences during the Covid-19 lockdown of 2020.

Nevertheless, despite garnering mixed reviews upon release, there are numerous fans who believe the drama about two young best friends who become entangled with an older, successful couple has aged remarkably well and merits viewing.

Alison Oliver (Wuthering Heights) and Sasha Lane (Loki) portray Frances and Bobbi, alongside Sex Education’s Jemima Kirke and Hamnet’s Joe Alwyn as Melissa and Nick, whose lives grow increasingly intertwined, reports the Express.

One five-star review on Goodreads praised the novel as “stupidly good” and “perfect from start to finish”.

Another user concurred, describing the novel as a “perfect representation of life: it’s messy and unpredictable, and we are all just trying to find our footing”.

The live-action adaptation for BBC Three and Hulu is praised as a faithful portrayal of the novel’s events and themes, meaning Normal People fans are certainly in for a treat if they choose to dive in or revisit the series several years after its release. It will be landing on Netflix in its entirety this Sunday, 22nd February.

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One viewer remarked upon its release: “Conversations With Friends the TV adaptation is a phenomenal success and I loved every moment of it. I may even re-watch.”

Meanwhile, an IMDb user described the series as “perfect”, hinting the television adaptation might even eclipse the original novel: “These are the kind of shows I love that don’t come around often. The actors were so interesting, different, and artistic. The backdrop of Dublin with its slightly melancholic and gritty feel captured me straight away.

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“I read the book some while ago, which I really enjoyed but the storyline didn’t overly stay with me. The show brought the story to life with its intelligent conversation, character flaws and nuances.

“I found the filming to be sparing and gorgeous- it created this nostalgic feeling. Such a simple storyline with no in-your-face twist or shocking reveal. It’s more human, subtle and visceral. I haven’t watched Normal People yet but this has made me look forward to watching it.”

Conversations With Friends is available to stream on Netflix from Sunday, 22nd February.

The new Netflix show follows five women who set out to rob a bank

Netflix has just dropped a new crime thriller perfect for your weekend binge-watch session.

Cash Queens or Les Lionnes follows five women who take on a daring money heist, led by single mum Rosalie.

When she realises that her family has to live on just €30 a week in order to pay off her incarcerated husband’s debt, Rosalie comes up with a plan.

She sets out to rob €100,000 from the bank where she works as a receptionist. Her best friend Kim soon catches wind of the heist and jumps on board, hoping to use her share to open a massage therapy salon.

Rosalie’s cousin, Alex, also joins in and uses her skills as an architecture student to perfect their plan.

They later recruit Sofia, another desperate single mum in need of cash before social services hunt her down. And their final member is Kim’s client Chloé, who is married to the town’s shady mayor.

The newfound friend group then take on the tricky heist, cleverly disguised as men. However, “it’s not long before politicians, police, and gangsters are on their tails, scarcely imagining that a group of ordinary women are behind this band of mercenaries,” states the synopsis.

Its ensemble cast is led by Rebecca Marder, who plays leading lady Rosalie. She is joined by Zoé Marchal as Kim, Naidra Ayadi as Sofia, Pascale Arbillot in the role of Chloé and Tya Deslauriers as Alex.

While the French drama’s plot seems far-fetched, it is actually inspired by a gang of robbers from the late eighties.

According to Tudum: “The series is inspired by the Gang des Amazones, five women who robbed seven banks in the South of France starting in 1989. “

The women famously disguised themselves as men by wearing wigs and fake moustaches.

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Since the eight-episode series premiered last night (February 5), it hasn’t received many reviews just yet. However, Screen Rant described it as a ‘must watch’.

Entertainment publication Gazettely also shared a thoughtful review, writing: “Cash Queens provides a sharp look at economic desperation. It replaces heist glamour with the frantic reality of survival.”

The review continued, praising the show’s plot device of masculine disguises as “biting commentary on the invisibility of working-class women”.

“This production represents a shift in streaming content toward stories prioritizing character depth over spectacle. It succeeds as a grounded portrait of resistance against a system designed to ignore the poor,” they concluded.

Cash Queens is streaming now on Netflix

The Netflix period drama is based on a beloved classic Gothic novel of the same name.

Enthusiasts of period dramas might be missing out on a Netflix treasure that’s adapted from one of literature’s most cherished classics.

This thriller, praised as “gripping from beginning to end”, features a beloved Downton Abbey star alongside a celebrated actress from Slow Horses.

Rebecca, which debuted on Netflix in 2020, draws from Daphne Du Maurier’s renowned thriller bearing the same title.

The 1938 Gothic masterpiece remains a timeless favourite due to its compelling themes and jaw-dropping plot twists, proving the tale continues to mesmerise audiences nearly a century on.

This bestselling novel has seen numerous adaptations throughout the decades, with Alfred Hitchcock’s Rebecca claiming the Academy Award for Best Picture in 1940.

The latest interpretation comes from director Ben Wheatley’s Netflix production, showcasing performances from Call me by Your Name’s Armie Hammer, Lily James and Kristin Scott Thomas.

James gained recognition portraying Rose in Downton Abbey, Young Donna in Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again and Pamela Anderson in Pam and Tommy.

Meanwhile, British theatrical icon Kristin Scott Thomas is renowned for her roles as Diana Taverner in Slow Horses, Fiona in Four Weddings and a Funeral and Sylvia McCordle in Gosford Park.

The IMDb synopsis for Rebecca states: “A young newlywed arrives at her husband’s imposing family estate on a windswept English coast and finds herself battling the shadow of his first wife, Rebecca, whose legacy lives on in the house long after her death.”

Rebecca holds a disappointing 37% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, though based on viewer feedback, many believe the film deserves far greater recognition, reports the Express.

Enthusiasts flocked to the comments section to voice their opinions, with one declaring: “This movie gripped me from beginning to end. I couldn’t look away, and I didn’t see anything coming. You think you know what the movie is about, then there is a twist, and the whole thing takes a left turn you didn’t see coming.”

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Another viewer exclaimed: “ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT! ! !” before adding: “Nothing can touch the original masterpiece however this film, in many ways, is faithful Du Mauriers cunning flip of stereotypes.”

A third fan wrote: “Loved the thrill, love story, period views, so well made I would watch it again,” whilst another concurred: “Loved the book and this version of it in film. Have watched I many times. Great cast and acting.”

Additional supporters praised how the timeless novel had been transformed for Netflix, with one suggesting: “If you’ve read Rebecca and it’s a beloved novel to you, this movie is amazing. A great rendition.”

Another viewer expressed bafflement at the film’s critical mauling, writing: “I don’t understand all the bad reviews for Rebecca. I loved the new adaptation. I especially loved the costumes and filming locations. Lily James does a wonderful job.”

One supporter declared: “Excellent twist on a classic thriller! I am not sure why this doesn’t have better reviews but it is well worth your time,” whilst another concurred: “This movie is a stunningly faithful adaptation of Daphne du Maurier’s classic novel.”

A further enthusiast gushed: “What a ride! ! ! This genre bending thriller will take you on the wildest roller coaster of your life. The next time someone asks me what my favorite movie is, I’m saying Rebecca.”

They added: “This movie surpassed my every expectation. Here I was, sitting on the couch expecting some lame romance but nope! ! I am going to pass this movie down through generations of my family.”

Yet not everyone shared the enthusiasm, with one viewer noting: “Bland to the point of boring.”

Another complained: “What was an interesting, suspenseful book with hints of psychological thriller in it became a vapid, rushed, and bland movie that sapped two hours of my life. If you like your movies to stick to the plot of your books, avoid this.”

A third grumbled: “As much as I love the actors and actresses in this movie, nothing about it really had me enjoying the film. The clichés were handed out like appetizers and the plot of the film was all over the place. Wasn’t a fan.”

Nevertheless, considering all the glowing feedback from fans despite the film’s disappointing Rotten Tomatoes rating, Rebecca might well be regarded as an undervalued gem.

Rebecca is available to stream now on Netflix.

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A movie hailed as a ‘cinematic masterpiece’ by fans is now streaming on Prime Video

A period drama film, praised as a masterpiece by viewers who’ve been encouraging others to experience it, is now available on Prime Video.

This follows recent acclaim for other productions including a period crime drama, an adaptation from a “superb” author, and a programme dubbed Netflix’s greatest achievement, reports the Express.

One glowing 10/10 review of the picture stated: “One of the finest plays in history is turned into a cinematic masterpiece.”

The reviewer praised The Crucible for featuring an “absolutely brilliant and cathartically heartbreaking performance” from one of its leading actors. They continued, describing how the star “delivers one of the finest examples of acting genius I’ve ever had the privilege of experiencing”.

Another 8/10 assessment declared: “I am not someone to randomly give out a perfect score for a movie… And I also happen to be a very critical person of most films. With that being said, The Crucible completely blows me away with its virtually flawless cinematic achievements!”

One 9/10 critique called the picture “just fantastic” and rooted in “possibly the greatest play ever written”.

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A particular performance was labelled “outstanding”, whilst another cast member made an “indelible impression thanks to their “marvellous acting”. The critic concluded by calling the film a “work of cinematic genius”.Yet another viewer awarded maximum marks, writing: “Not just a dynamic character study, but a study of madness”. One enthusiastic 7/10 review praised the production as an “excellent adaptation”, adding: “There is nothing I like better than a good play for the stage, even when it is on screen. “.

Released in 1996, The Crucible draws from Arthur Miller’s acclaimed 1953 stage play of the same title.

Taking place during the Salem Witch Trials in Massachusetts Bay between 1692 and 1693, Miller crafted the work as a pointed commentary on the political persecution characteristic of McCarthyism in the mid-1950s.

The narrative centres on a community of Puritan settlers thrown into chaos following rumours of dark magic after local minister Samuel Parris (portrayed by Bruce Davison) discovers his daughter collapsed and unresponsive in the forest.

The incident follows her participation with several other young women in attempting to perform incantations alongside an enslaved woman.

As news of the events circulates, allegations of sorcery spread like wildfire throughout the settlement, prompting residents to turn against one another based on mere suspicion rather than proof.

The young women begin pointing fingers at fellow townspeople, resulting in numerous trials, including that of John Proctor (Daniel Day-Lewis), who previously engaged in an illicit relationship with Abigail Williams (Winona Ryder).

The production boasted a stellar ensemble, featuring Joan Allen, Paul Scofield, Peter Vaughn, Frances Conroy, and Jeffrey Jones amongst its ranks.

Upon its 1996 debut, the picture garnered multiple accolades, including a Best Actress recognition for Allen and a Best Adapted Screenplay acknowledgement for playwright Miller himself. Furthermore, the production earned nominations for BAFTAs, Golden Globes, Satellite Awards, and the Berlin Film Festival.

The Crucible (1996) is streaming on Prime Video and Apple TV for a fee now.

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The brand new crime drama will be released today as fans brand it one of the “most harrowing” things they have seen

A gripping crime drama dubbed “one of the most harrowing and distressing things” fans have ever seen is now available to stream for free.

Devil in Disguise: John Wayne Gacy tells the terrifying story of the American serial killer, spanning across eight episodes. Having first been released in the US last year, it will today (January 30) be released on ITV and ITVX.

The series will air weekly at 9pm on ITV1 & STV on Fridays. But for those looking to binge-watch the series in one go, all 8 episodes will be available via ITVX & STV Player straight away.

It has been teased: “Prepare to take a deep dive into the mind and life of one of America’s most notorious serial killers with this drama that tells the terrifying story of John Wayne Gacy.

“From 1972-1978, thirty-three young men were kidnapped, murdered, and buried in a crawl space beneath their killer’s house. And no one was the wiser. Not for all those years. Why? He was charming and funny.

“Had a good, All-American job. Was a community leader. He even volunteered to entertain sick kids… while dressed as a clown.

“Devil In Disguise: John Wayne Gacy peels back the twisted layers of Gacy’s life while weaving in heartrending stories of his victims; exploring the grief, guilt, and trauma of their families and friends; and exposing the systemic failures, missed opportunities, and societal prejudices that fueled his reign of terror.”

The series has already been a hit with viewers, as one person said: “Honestly, one of the most harrowing and distressing things I’ve ever seen. Each episode takes time to honour and bring back to life one or more of the victims.”

Is Devil in Disguise based on a true story?

Yes, the ITV drama is based on the true story of the notorious American serial killer John Wayne Gacy, who murdered young men and boys in the 1970s. Although a dramatisation of his life and crimes, it is based on real-life events that occurred.

Known as the Killer Clown, because Gacy often dressed as one when volunteering at various events, he targeted young men and sexually assaulted many of them before killing them. And he went untraced from 1972 to 1978.

Across a six-year spree, Gacy murdered 33 young men before burying them in a mass grave under his own home in Chicago. Leading a double life, Gacy had a fascination with clowns, often using that persona to lure his victims.

But it wasn’t until 1978 that he was arrested and confessed to the crimes. His arrest came after the disappearance of teenager Robert Piest, who was Gacy’s final victim, which led authorities to suspect Gacy.

In 1980, he was convicted of killing 33 young men and sentenced to death before receiving the lethal injection at the age of 52 in 1994.

Devil in Disguise: John Wayne Gacy airs tonight at 9pm on ITV.

Netflix has added a historical drama based on the true story and viewers have been captivated

Netflix has quietly dropped a historical drama rooted in real events, and true crime enthusiasts are already singing its praises. The streaming giant has added this Italian post-war thriller, which chronicles the life of Toni Chichiarelli (portrayed by Pietro Castellitto).

The gifted artist scrapes by creating street portraits in Rome during Italy’s tumultuous Years of Lead. This period witnessed widespread chaos fuelled by political violence from both neo-fascist groups and far-left extremists.

Time Magazine noted: “Toni’s amoral ambition leads to a life of forgery, producing perfect replicas of paintings for his gallery owner girlfriend Donata (Giulia Michelini) and other lucrative jobs for the Banda della Magliana, a criminal organization stretching its wings in Rome, with the charismatic Balbo (Edoardo Pesce) taking the forger under his wing.”

This ambitious production, amongst Netflix’s collection of fact-based films, has earned acclaim for its meticulous period detail, with reviewers highlighting the authenticity of everything from vehicles to wardrobes and soundtrack. Viewers have branded it a compelling blend of political suspense and gangster drama.

The Netflix offering is titled The Big Fake, and supporters have flocked to IMDb reviews encouraging others to give it a watch.

Pjames10 praised it as “excellent”, revealing: “I don’t want to give anything away, but the movie took some nice twists and turns. It had some filmic serendipities that, rather than distracting, only helped to reveal how our hero has led a charmed life on the periphery of legitimacy and criminality. I was sucked in, and it held my attention the entire time.”

2B-10101010 branded it “amazing”, continuing: “Intrigue, emotion, story, actors, this movie has it all. It starts a bit slow but after the initial introduction, you get to know the characters and story and you want to see more, you want to feel like you are in the movie, it’s a captivating story with a bit of flair. Maybe one of the best European movies! Give it a chance, it’s worth seeing.”

Luuthaiquangkhai awarded the film nine out of 10 stars, commending its distinctive atmosphere.

They explained: “I came in expecting a heist/criminal movie, ends up watching a Historical drama that is very much unlike any other things. They have a good story to tell, a firm set of characters with clear individual values and motivations.”

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Over on Rotten Tomatoes, Giulia S enthused: “Amazing plot. Great character. Great Atmosphere. I really enjoy it!” Anthousa P declared: “Finally a movie for readers of good literature. Where the story matters less than how it is told. Lovely photography, solid acting, good steady pace, interesting musical background.”

Lucas P declared: “An absolute masterpiece of a movie with a spectacular twist at the end. This is a must-watch.”

The genuine Antonio Chichiarelli was an expert in deception, and his talents extended far beyond painting. Born in Abruzzo in 1948, he made his way to Rome possessing a skill “so dangerous it made him a protected asset for the most powerful entities in Italy”, according to The Viewers Perspective.

The Big Fake is on Netflix.

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Netflix has shared a first look at its new crime thriller series, which is based on bestselling novels

Netflix has dropped an exciting first look at a gripping new crime thriller series perfect for Department Q fans, adapted from a celebrated author’s chart-topping novels. The serial killer whodunnit, among Netflix’s expanding roster of crime dramas, stars The Last Kingdom’s Tobias Santelmann in the lead role, with early reactions praising it as “fresh and true to the character”.

Set for its worldwide premiere on Netflix on March 26, the Working Title production showcases Santelmann as detective Harry Hole, with Joel Kinnaman portraying Tom Waaler and Pia Tjelta taking on the role of Rakel Fauke.

Series creator and executive producer Jo Nesbø commented: “It’s been just great working with Tobias Santelmann and creating a character that is fresh, still true to the character and his universe in the novels. I’m really looking forward to presenting this Harry Hole to the audience.”

The programme, titled Jo Nesbo’s Detective Hole, has proven to be a career highlight for Santelmann, who described the opportunity as an “honour”. He elaborated: “Stepping into Harry Hole’s shoes has been a tremendous honour and a thrilling challenge. Jo Nesbø’s world is so rich, and Harry is a truly complex character.

“I’m thankful for this opportunity, and I hope the audience will enjoy our Harry Hole. Bringing him to life, and working with everyone involved, has been a true privilege.”

Jo Nesbø has captivated audiences globally with over 60 million books sold, cementing his status as a master of the crime thriller genre. The adaptation centres on his iconic troubled detective, Harry Hole, and explores his complex relationship with a fellow officer who walks a far darker path.

The series pits Harry against the morally compromised detective Tom Waaler. According to the synopsis: “Harry is a brilliant but tormented homicide detective who struggles with his demons.

“As the two navigate the blurred ethical lines of the criminal justice system, Harry must do all he can to catch a serial killer and bring Waaler to justice before it is too late.”

The explosive trailer plunges audiences straight into chaos with a devastating car crash, offering a glimpse into the perilous world the detective inhabits daily. Whilst acknowledged as exceptional at his job, he is “just not that good at everything else”.

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His nemesis can be heard taunting him: “We are not so different, you and I. We are both intelligent. We don’t have to be enemies, you and I.”

Enthusiasts rushed to YouTube to voice their excitement, with @CANAN-07 commenting: “I read all Jo Nesbo books! I love Harry Hole’s character, and I was picturing exactly this actor type in my mind, Tobias Santelmann. This must be from The Devil’s Star book in which the killer cuts off victims’ fingers.”

User @stevelamont4593 commented: “I’m with you, I’ve read the books, I’m hoping it’s better than The Snowman (film). The book was brilliant, this looks really…. really good.”

Meanwhile, @iloveharrypotter22 enthused: “YES! I can’t wait. One of my all-time favorite book series. If you’re new to Harry Hole read the books, and skip The Snowman movie. This show has a lot of promise. Can’t wait!”

Jo Nesbo’s Detective Hole launches on Netflix on March 26.

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