The period drama series The Mill, set during the 1830s Industrial Revolution in Britain, is available to stream free on Channel 4 or via Amazon Prime Video subscription. The 2013 costume drama has been hailed by viewers as a '10 star series' for its 'realistic' and 'authentic' depiction of life at Quarry Bank Mill in Cheshire, England.
What is The Mill About?
Developed by Emily Dalton, who drew upon archival records from the National Trust Property, the series offers an unflinching examination of life during the 1830s, interweaving fictional characters and storylines with genuine accounts and people who worked at Quarry Bank Mill. The Mill was shot on location in Cheshire to ensure faithful representation.
The series chronicles life at the mill through the perspectives of protagonists Esther Price (Kerrie Hayes) and Daniel Bate (Matthew McNulty). It confronts weighty subjects including child labour legislation, workers' rights, safety conditions in mill work, and the political struggles to bring about improvements.
Critical Acclaim and Viewer Praise
Critical acclaim for The Mill has been widespread. One IMDB reviewer writes: "The Mill is a captivating historical series illustrating the draconian conditions experienced by the working classes in the Cotton Mills. It is exceptionally well written, casted, directed, filmed and delivered by a fine array of actors."
Another viewer said: "I think that women may respond to this amazing drama, more than men...more's the pity. It addresses the kind of oppression women, children and the poor have faced throughout time. It takes a moment of one such time and speaks volumes about many others like it. An intimate snapshot into something deeply relatable to many. Even with such a dark topic this story is uplifting, because it is true to human nature. The acting is superb, the writing intelligent and the cinematography gorgeous. It was altogether deeply satisfying. I think this story rocks. It is definitely a 10 star series."
Cast and Production
The Mill features Kerrie Hayes and Matthew McNulty in principal roles, alongside Donald Sumpter, Barbara Marten, Jamie Draven, Andrew Lee Potts, Rosilyn Ann Southgate, Katherine Rose Morley, Holly Lucas, and Sope Dirisu. Hayes earned a BAFTA nomination for Best Leading Actress for her portrayal.
Penned by John Fay and helmed by director James Hawes, the series runs across two seasons. The first series comprises four episodes set in the 1830s, while the second season contains six episodes broadcast in 2014, continuing the narrative from 1838 through to 1842. Channel 4 axed the series in 2014, leaving the narrative unresolved and devastating its loyal fanbase.
Viewer Reactions to Cancellation
One viewer expressed disappointment: "Addictive and compelling. A wonderful insight into life of a community of mill workers and people from the local workhouse. The characters are so real, costumes and setting Quarry Bank Mill all fantastic. So disappointed to hear there are to be no more seasons. Leaving the story unfinished sadly. Such a shame."
Another fan shared similar feelings: "Bring The Mill back for Season 3! This is so unfair, please make a 3rd season (or publish a book even!) so we know what happens to the characters. I loved this show. Gritty and hard to watch at parts but I absolutely loved the characters and their interwoven stories."
A viewer on IMDB said: "Great show. Why did it get axed? This had great bones. It was an interesting story, well acted, sets and costumes, an excellent production through and through. It is such a wasted opportunity."
Where to Watch
The Mill is available to stream free on Channel 4 and with a subscription on Amazon Prime Video.
