'Masterpiece' BBC period drama based on global bestselling book is 'best series ever seen'

Period dramas have long captivated audiences and fans have now discovered a new series that is a must-watch. Inspired by the bestselling novel by Kate Atkinson, Life After Life follows Ursula Todd, a woman who dies in 1910 and is reborn over and over again, each time living a slightly altered version of her life. Set against the backdrop of 20th-century England, Ursula’s story unfolds across multiple timelines. With each rebirth, her path changes depending on the choices she makes and the instinctive memories she carries from lives before.

Throughout the series, Ursula dies in various circumstances, only to return to the moment of her birth, guided by vague recollections of what came before. These haunting fragments of memory allow her to navigate danger, protect loved ones, and in some cases, even alter the course of history. Her journey through love, fate, and loss spans some of history's most critical moments, including both World Wars.

The four-part series aired on BBC Two in 2022. Thomasin McKenzie takes on the role of Ursula, starring alongside Sian Clifford, James McArdle, Jessica Hynes, Ron Cook and Sean Delaney.

Life After Life is based on Atkinson's "global bestselling" book, which received critical acclaim upon its release in 2013.

The book won the prestigious Costa Novel Award, was named a New York Times Best Book of the Century, and was shortlisted for the Women’s Prize for Fiction before also winning the South Bank Sky Arts Literature Prize.

The BBC adaptation met high expectations, earning glowing reviews from critics and audiences alike.

One wrote: "Outstanding tv drama, perfection in every aspect," and gave the series a five-star rating.

"My all time favourite novel, bought skilfully and beautifully to life by the BBC. I loved every minute. A masterpiece," shared a second as another echoed: "One of the best series I've seen on TV in years. It was brilliant and touched me so profoundly. Just fantastic."

Another said: "This probably was the best series I ever watched in my 54 years of life. It really shows you how life will bring you happiness and drama no matter what path you take. You really can’t fight that or try to make life perfect. I think we all have been here before it’s always been a feeling I have had underneath. Need more stories like this."

A fifth agreed: "I think this is the best show I've ever seen! It's so amazing to see life and the different roads it takes you through. This was a pleasant surprise. I've never heard of this masterpiece. So happy I found it."