A critically acclaimed period drama, boasting a near-perfect 99% score on Rotten Tomatoes, is captivating a new wave of viewers on Netflix, with many drawing favourable comparisons to the dystopian masterpiece The Handmaid's Tale.
A Canadian Gem Based on Fact
The series in question is Alias Grace, a six-part miniseries adapted from Margaret Atwood's 1996 novel of the same name. The story is rooted in shocking real events from the 1800s in Upper Canada. It follows Grace Marks, a young Irish immigrant and domestic servant, who is convicted of the murder of her employer and his housekeeper in 1843. While her co-accused, stablehand James McDermott, is hanged, Grace is sentenced to life imprisonment, becoming one of the country's most infamous women.
The project was brought to the screen by writer Sarah Polley and director Mary Harron. The lead role of the enigmatic Grace is portrayed by Sarah Gadon, who heads a stellar cast including Anna Paquin, Zachary Levi, and Edward Holcroft. Eagle-eyed fans can also spot author Margaret Atwood in a surprise cameo as an 'old woman at church' in the first episode.
Critical Acclaim and Viewer Adoration
First airing on CBC in September 2017 before landing on Netflix that November, Alias Grace has consistently garnered praise. Its Primetime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Music Composition in 2018 underscored its technical excellence. However, it is the reaction from audiences that truly highlights its impact.
Viewers on platforms like IMDB have been effusive in their praise. One fan described it as a "well made, superbly acted and completely fascinating series," highlighting Gadon's "luminous" performance as worthy of an Emmy. Another captivated viewer wrote, "It is such an amazing story. It's something you cannot get over with just like the Handmaid's Tale."
The comparison to Atwood's other major television adaptation is a common and compelling one. Many note that Alias Grace, while a period piece, shares the same thematic depth, intricate storytelling, and powerful exploration of female agency that made The Handmaid's Tale a phenomenon.
A Must-Watch Historical Thriller
Further reviews commend the series' intelligence and emotional weight. One glowing review stated it was a "wonderful, intelligent and moving work," and an "exceptional, richly nuanced and sensitive piece of filmmaking." The praise often centres on the compelling central performance and the intricate, detail-oriented dialogue that rewards close attention.
With its masterful blend of historical fact, psychological drama, and moral complexity, Alias Grace stands as a testament to powerful storytelling. For those seeking a series that is both intellectually stimulating and deeply moving, this under-the-radar gem is readily available for streaming in its entirety on Netflix, waiting to enthrall a new generation of viewers.
