WW2 series based on Pulitzer Prize-winning novel is 'best period drama' on Netflix

An adaptation of a Pulitzer Prize-winning novel has been described as the "best period drama" on Netflix. All the Light We Cannot See is an American historical drama television miniseries directed by Shawn Levy and developed by Steven Knight. Based on Anthony Doerr's novel, the four-part series stars Aria Mia Loberti, Mark Ruffalo and Hugh Laurie.

The series synopsis reads: "All the Light We Cannot See tells the story of a blind French girl, Marie-Laure, and a gifted German orphan, Werner, whose lives intersect in France during World War II, as Marie-Laure's father and she flee to Saint-Malo and Werner becomes an expert radio technician for the Nazis, ultimately tracking down resistance broadcasters. The novel's nonlinear structure, rich with sensory detail, alternates between their perspectives, culminating in their meeting as the war rages, exploring themes of morality, the destructive power of war, and the resilience of human connection through a shared appreciation for science and nature."

Glamour magazine highlighted All the Light We Cannot See in its listing of the "25 best period dramas on Netflix that are perfect for a spot of nostalgia".

Fans have hailed the series, and its 4.1 stars on Google reviews reflect that.

One reviewer said: "Just Beautiful. I have no words. It's beyond satisfaction. I have not read the book, but I can say that this is a LOVE of a very different kind which you want to be true. Some things are meant to be seen without logic, for the real beauty lies not in judgment but in imagination. Just go through the first episode, I can guarantee you will agree with me."

Another added: "All the Light We Cannot See - it amazes me that after all my years watching World War II movies there continues to be more stories to tell that are compelling, heartfelt, and a reminder that human beings are capable of great strength and terrible strength during a time of war."

"Of course, all adaptations of a book into a film can almost never be page by page or scene by scene turned into a perfect copy movie. The narrative in the book has a different plot compared to the narrative of the film, but what I like in great film adaptations is that the film still rings true or uses a more timely and appropriate theme, which is at the same wavelength frequency as the book," added a third.

All the Light We Cannot See is available to stream now on Netflix.