Welcome to another edition of “What To Watch On Netflix,” where we spotlight the must-watch shows on the streaming giant. Today’s focus is on the captivating limited series “All the Light We Cannot See,” directed by Shawn Levy and written by Steven Knight. Released in November 2023, this series is a dramatic adaptation of Anthony Doerr’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, exploring the lives of a blind French girl and a German soldier during WWII.
Plot
“All the Light We Cannot See” is a gripping narrative set against the backdrop of WWII. The story unfolds through the lives of Marie-Laure, a blind French girl living in Nazi-occupied France, and Werner, a German soldier whose path intersects with Marie-Laure’s in a profound and unexpected way. The series is a rich tapestry of their struggles, resilience, and the human spirit in the face of war.
Visually, the series is stunning — the backdrop of war-torn France is depicted with realism, creating an immersive experience for the viewer. The contrast between the dark, oppressive atmosphere of the Nazi occupation and the characters’ moments of humanity is striking. The series effectively uses visual effects to convey both the harsh realities of the era and the inner worlds of its characters, particularly the unique perspective of Marie-Laure.
Cast
The show boasts a remarkable cast with Aria Mia Loberti playing Marie-Laure, and well-known actors Mark Ruffalo and Hugh Laurie portraying Daniel and Etienne LeBlanc respectively. The casting is notable for its authentic representation, particularly with Loberti’s performance as a blind protagonist.
Reviews
While the series showcases a bright cast and visually stunning scenes, it has received mixed reviews. Critics on Rotten Tomatoes were savage with a rating of only 26%, while the audience score was 75%. Who are you going to trust?
Also, more in line with the audience score is the IMDb rating of 7.2/10 perhaps confirming the critics got it wrong on this one.
Trailer
“All the Light We Cannot See” is a unique perspective on a well-known historical period. Its storytelling and character development provide an emotionally rich experience, making it a noteworthy addition to your Netflix watch list.
Show Details
- Year: 2018
- Seasons: 1
- Episodes: 8
- Episode Run Time: 40-50min