'Masterpiece' period drama with 'greatest living actor' now streaming on BBC

Viewers can't get enough of this "astounding" period drama set in Tudor times as they praise its historical accuracy and "sublime" acting performances.

The hit British series Wolf Hall: The Mirror and the Light is a TV adaptation of novels written by Hilary Mantel and follows the final dramatic years of Thomas Cromwell's life. His fascinating life as the lawyer and chief minister serving King Henry VIII has viewers hooked as they learn about the happenings that led to his timely beheading on orders of the king.

Set in the 16th century, this six-part first series focuses on the height of Cromwell's power and influence right up until his fall from grace and explores the conflicts of his relationship with the king himself and the court. Picking things up just after the tragic execution of Anne Boleyn, the show doesn't shy away from the 16th-century drama.

First released in 2015, fans are still raving about the show on Rotten Tomatoes. One viewer said: "Absolutely astounding! This show was incredible, and the performances from the cast made me feel like I was witnessing the actual events that were depicted in the show. All period pieces should use this show as a template because it was amazing in every way. I definitely recommend this for mediaeval and history fans!"

A Vogue review added: "Rylance is one of our greatest living actors, and the emotions he holds in his face are manifold. His delivery of Mantel’s dialogue—modern, intelligent, bristling with implication and subterfuge—is mesmerisingly clear."

It's the acting performance from Mark Rylance as Thomas Cromwell which has left a huge impact on viewers. The actor stars alongside Damian Lewis as Henry VIII, and both have received nothing but praise for their portrayal of two complex historical figures.

One critic said: "An utterly sublime performance by Rylance and Lewis. The whole programme is beautiful."

The series acts as a second and final season follow-up to Wolf Hall, based on the Mantel novels, and many are claiming it's even better than the first. Season one focuses on the first two books within the series, Wolf Hall and Bring Up the Bodies, whereas this version of the show adapts the final novel, with the same name.

A review reads: "Season 2 of Wolf Hall still has many of the things going for it that made season 1 so good. First and foremost, that would be the strong source material in Hilary Mantel's literature and excellent acting. There is also a strong sense of historical accuracy in some regards, down to the finer details of costume design."

One viewer added: "Season 2 is arguably greater than its acclaimed predecessor. Cromwell’s middle-aged regrets build poignantly, while brisker pacing and some levity lend the proceedings a teeming liveliness."

If you're interested in taking a deep dive into the life of Thomas Cromwell and the reign of King Henry VIII, Wolf Hall: The Mirror and the Light is now available to stream on BBC iPlayer.