The 2018 BBC political thriller Black Earth Rising, starring Michaela Coel, has been hailed by fans as the "best drama in years" for its stunning visuals and powerful storytelling. The eight-episode mini-series, now available on BBC iPlayer, has been described as "perfection" by admirers.
Plot and Themes
The series centers on Kate Ashby (Coel), who was born in Rwanda but raised in Britain by her adoptive mother, Eve. Kate follows in her mother's footsteps, working alongside a prominent British prosecutor specializing in international criminal law. Employed by Michael Ennis (John Goodman), Eve is forced to confront her traumatic early childhood during the Rwandan genocide when she prosecutes an African militia leader at the International Criminal Court. The show tackles demanding themes including race, justice, personal integrity, and self-determination on an international scale.
Fan Reactions
One IMDB reviewer called it the "best" war drama they had seen in recent times, praising Coel's performance, the script's twists and turns, and its depth and sensitivity to a painful human tragedy. Another fan said they had witnessed "perfection at last," noting that even the best films have flaws, but Black Earth Rising achieved perfection in acting, direction, and cinematography.
Technical Brilliance
The same fan highlighted the stunning visuals by cinematographer Hubert Taczanowski, describing the lighting and camera movement as a masterclass. The sound design was praised for clarity, and the animated sections were called a stroke of genius. The music, particularly Lou Reed's Vanishing Act, was noted as a perfect choice.
Another viewer stated: "I have come away from episode 5 absolutely mesmerized. Compelling, beautiful, powerful - stunning in every way."
