The three-part historical drama series 'Gunpowder' is now available to stream for free on Channel 4, earning praise from audiences as 'the most historically accurate' period piece and 'British drama at its very best.' Viewers have expressed their 'shock' at the quality of the show, which originally aired on BBC One in October 2017.
Plot and Historical Context
Set in 1605 London, the series revolves around the Gunpowder Plot, a failed assassination attempt against King James I. The official synopsis explains: 'In 1603, as England is engaged in war against Spain, tensions are high due to brutal persecution of Catholics. Robert Catesby, a young Catholic nobleman who has recently lost both his wife and his father, conjures a literally explosive plot to kill King James I when he sits in the Houses of Parliament.' Catesby joins with a group of aggrieved men, including the infamous Guy Fawkes, to enact vengeance in events still commemorated in modern Britain.
Cast and Production
Kit Harington, known for 'Game of Thrones,' stars as Robert Catesby and is a direct descendant of the real-life figure. The cast also includes Peter Mullan, Derek Riddell, Mark Gatiss, Liv Tyler, Luke Broughton, Philip Hill-Pearson, Edward Holcroft, and Tom Cullen. The series was created by Ronan Bennett ('Top Boy'), Harington, and Daniel West, and directed by J Blakeson. It received a BAFTA nomination for Best Production Design.
Filming Locations and Authenticity
Filmed primarily in Yorkshire, locations include Beverley Minster (doubling as the Palace of Westminster), National Trust sites East Riddlesden Hall and Fountains Abbey, as well as Bolton Abbey, Oakwell Hall, Ripley Castle, Kirkstall Abbey, and Haddon Hall. The production's attention to detail has been widely praised.
Critical and Audience Reception
Critics have lauded the series, with one reviewer stating: 'Given its dramatic subject matter, strong performances, and handsome production values, this series should satisfy anyone with a love for British historical drama.' Another noted: 'The conspirators' efforts may have come to naught, but the efforts of Bennett, Harington and his co-stars do justice to their history.' A third added: 'It's certainly historically fascinating, and genuine, in language as well. Potent and gripping too.'
On IMDb, an audience review said: 'Brilliant and gritty British drama. I was pleasantly surprised at how gripping and harrowing this drama was. Yes the violence was gory but necessary as this was historically accurate. Harrington gives his best performance... 10/10.' Another viewer commented: 'Amazing. One of the best mini series I've ever seen, it is simply spectacular.' A fan added: 'Very well made! There are so few movies or series made of this period with this accuracy and detail.'
Streaming Availability
'Gunpowder' is streaming free on Channel 4, offering viewers a chance to experience what many call a 'must-watch' for historical drama enthusiasts.
