'Fascinating' Netflix war TV series fans can't get enough of

Shawn Levy's historical epic "All the Light We Cannot See," adapted from Anthony Doerr's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, stars Aria Mia Loberti, Mark Ruffalo, Louis Hofmann, and Hugh Laurie in pivotal roles.

The four-part Netflix miniseries, crafted by Steven Knight, premiered on November 2, 2023, tracing the intertwining lives of a blind French girl, Marie-Laure, and a German soldier, Werner Pfennig, amidst the turmoil of World War Two.

Their fates entwine in Nazi-occupied France, as both are swept into the conflict's brutal tide.

Casting Aria Mia Loberti, a legally blind actress, for the lead role of Marie-Laure has been lauded as a landmark moment for the representation of visually impaired actors.

However, critics have savaged the series, with a dismal 27 per cent rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a barrage of scathing reviews, reports .

One reviewer said: "Knight and Levy aim for an uplifting, inspirational tale of connection that transcends division, distance and prejudice, but instead deliver a flat, jumbled story that lacks the desired effect."

Another critic added: "This is Netflix at its most awards baiting. Which is why it is symptomatic too of the decline in quality of the service's output, because All the Light We Cannot See is a dud."

One vented their disappointment: "You don't really want to dump on a story about a blind girl hiding from the Nazis, but All the Light We Cannot See doesn't deserve that grace. It's a nauseatingly sentimental, droopy and punishing adaptation."

While another scathingly said: "Anthony Doerr's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel of wartime courage under fire has been turned into a botch job of epic proportions, a shockingly shallow drama series that dims the light of everyone involved in its misbegotten creation."

Adding to the onslaught, one critic slammed the show, saying: "[It] isn't just inferior to the book; it's a schmaltzy, incompetent, borderline offensive mess whose mere existence tarnishes the book's legacy."

In stark contrast, fans were captivated, with one glowing review stating: "One of the most amazing war related TV shows out there. I wish more people knew of it. It has a beautiful, moving storyline, wonderful actors portraying strong and thoughtful characters. The atmosphere of war, the dressing, the music set the right mood for the viewer to enjoy. And it's got deep messages, love, care, light in it. I highly recommend."

Viewers have been captivated by the evocative miniseries, with one lauding its emotional impact: "It was so good to see a show with substance and depth! Was it perfect? No. Was it totally realistic? Probably not. Were there cliches in it? Yes. And in spite of that it was moving and beautiful and a testament to the best of the human soul. Its imperfections almost made it more touching. I would totally recommend this to any of my friends. It is a must see."

Another fan stepped up to defend the series against naysayers: "This show was absolutely amazing. Please disregard any negative feedback that this show received. It was intelligent, and engaging, it focused on more than the obvious negatives of the war. Learning more about how locals helped with messages and codes, and how there were different departments under the regime was fascinating. The writing and soundtrack were excellent and the entire show was well written and engaging. I highly recommend this!".

The series is streaming now on Netflix.