A gripping psychological thriller has become the most-watched show on Netflix UK, drawing in more than 10 million viewers in just one week.
Unchosen: A Riveting New Series
Julie Gearey's latest psychological thriller, Unchosen, is becoming a massive hit with audiences. The six-part series stars Molly Windsor as Rosie, a woman living in a strict, secluded religious sect whose existence is upended by an unexpected meeting with an escaped prisoner, Sam, portrayed by Fra Fee.
As Rosie navigates a painful relationship with her husband, Adam (Asa Butterfield), her world is turned upside down by an intriguing stranger named Sam. At first, Sam seems like the perfect escape from Rosie's dark world. But, as time goes on, she realises something sinister lurks beneath the surface. Everyone, it seems, has secrets they're hiding, and those truths unravel over the course of six episodes.
The drama takes inspiration from the real experiences of former cult members, with the writer contacting individuals who were forced to flee those communities.
Cast and Reception
The cast also features Downton Abbey and Happy Valley star Siobhan Finneran, alongside Aston McAuley, Alexa Davies, Lucy Black, Olivia Pickering, and Doctor Who's Christopher Eccleston.
Unchosen arrived on Netflix on 21 April. It has subsequently become a worldwide triumph in viewing figures, claiming the top spot across 69 nations. The disturbing series then emerged as the most-watched programme on Netflix UK, accumulating 10.4 million views within a single week.
Critics have been equally impressed, with Unchosen currently holding a 73% score on review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes. Metro declared: "Your next must-watch series has arrived - and you're going to struggle not to binge it in one go," while The Times UK noted: "Each of the key characters are given some depth by the writer Julie Gearey."
Viewer Praise
Viewers have also shared their praise, with many comparing the series to Harlan Coben's Run Away. One admirer posted on IMDb: "Sublime acting. The lead actors were exceptional. What a treat! Thank YOU, Molly Windsor, Fra Fee, Asa Butterfield, Siobhan Finneran, and Christopher Eccleston... My stomach twisted and turned. Brilliant storyline."
Another commented: "A compelling story with an excellent cast. Each character has a unique story to tell about who they really are. Asa Butterfield fantastic in a dramatic lead! Hope to see him in more dramatic roles going forward."
A third remarked: "Thrilling, riveting and touching," with another viewer likewise expressing: "Secrets and lies emerge in the first episode and keep you gripped throughout this limited series. Asa Butterfield plays the sinister role [of] Adam who eerily puts the viewer on edge. Everyone has a secret and are not what they seem. No spoilers here, have a watch - you won't be disappointed."
A fifth viewer shared similar feelings, commenting: "Not a crime drama or the usual detective series. This made it a refreshing drama to watch. Excellent performances throughout. Apparently there are many religious cults hidden away in Great Britain, which I was unaware of until watching this series. Not got to the end of it yet but definitely enjoying switching on for the next episode."
Unchosen is available to stream on Netflix.
