'Masterpiece' thriller that inspired The Last of Us is streaming for free

A 'masterpiece' thriller that was one of the earliest inspirations for The Last of Us is currently streaming for free.

UK audiences can catch the gripping tale found in Children of Men at no extra cost on BBC iPlayer. Although the film first hit screens in 2006, many who have recently stumbled upon it feel it resonates even more strongly today.

Set in a dystopian 2027 where humans have become infertile for 18 years, mankind appears on the brink of complete anarchy as they head towards extinction. However when a woman becomes pregnant, Clive Owen's Theo, a disillusioned former activist turned protector of the expectant mother, may just carry the hope for humanity's future.

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The stellar cast includes Michael Caine, Julianne Moore, Chiwetel Ejiofor, and Charlie Hunnam, under the direction of Alfonso Cuarón, who crafted the screenplay from P. D. James's novel before bagging his Oscar win, although he did snag a Best Adapted Screenplay nomination for Children of Men, reports .

As the film nears its two-decade mark, its acclaim hasn't waned; if anything, its significance in cinema seems to have amplified over time.

A viewer expressed their thoughts online, reflecting on the film's impact: "Loved this film in 2006, watching again in 2024 it hits home even more. How far are we from this? Not far. A film or a glimpse into the near future?".

One fan shared their thoughts on the lasting impact of the film, stating: "Amazing film that stays with you days, months and years after watching. This is the test of great art. The moods are near perfect and the ideas are very compelling and sadly seem somewhat prescient. This movie is what comes to mind when I think of the twin dangers of over population and ecological collapse."

They continued to heap praise by saying: "It's one of the most gripping films I know of, with universal themes, deep socio-political resonances, innovative in every way, great cast performing at their best, killer soundtrack, what is not to like here?".

Highlighting its influence on popular culture, a viewer was quick to link the film Children of Men with other mediums, as Neil Druckmann from Naughty Dog has previously cited it as an inspirational piece.

The person said: "It is one of the best movies the humanity could ever make. This is the definition of human spirit and why humans are called self destroyers. And the fact that game like The Last of Us has taken inspiration from this movie makes it one of the masterpiece that comes in a decade or two...dont miss it...see it before you die. Everything happens for a reason."

Another person succinctly summed it up: "In one word, a masterpiece. Children of Men is truly a miracle of cinema. A simple premise explored in such a visceral way that by the time it's over, you feel like you have already experienced this world where humanity is almost at the brink of extinction."

One commenter was moved to say, "This is not an action flick but rather a beautiful, depressing yet slightly uplifting and bittersweet sci-fi thriller with some of the best visuals you'll ever see."

Children if Men is streaming on BBC iPlayer and NOW.