Period drama enthusiasts searching for their next binge-worthy series need look no further than 'The Crimson Field', a standalone British television drama that can be devoured across six inspiring episodes.
A Hidden Gem from 2014
The Crimson Field first aired on the BBC in 2014 and, despite never being renewed for a second series, continues to be discovered and praised by viewers. The show has audiences hooked as it follows the lives of medical staff and patients navigating the gruelling conditions of the First World War.
Set in a fictional field hospital in France during the height of the conflict, it captures the spirit of the era while breathing life into the stories of individuals behind this landmark historical event.
Stellar Ensemble Cast
For many, it is the ensemble cast that propels the series forward, featuring both fresh and recognisable faces delivering remarkable performances. The cast includes Rupert Graves as Major Edward Crecy, Oona Chaplin as Kitty Trevelyan, Hermione Norris as Grace Carter, Suranne Jones as Sister Joan Livesey, and Kevin Doyle as Lt Col Roland Brett.
Viewer Acclaim
One viewer left a review on Rotten Tomatoes, stating: 'I rate The Crimson Field with Call the Midwife and Downton Abbey. It is British drama at its best with a fantastic cast... Truly remarkable acting.'
Another review on IMDb said: 'Within the first minutes of watching this series I knew that I was hooked. It gives an honest representation of life in the war hospitals of Northern France during the First World War... It shows that lines do get blurred when individual, real people are involved.'
The review also noted that the series shares 'a lot in common' with Downton Abbey, exploring similar themes in a unique manner: 'Where Downton Abbey explores the realities of hierarchy in early 20th-century British society, The Crimson Field does the same with the ranking within the army and hospital camps.'
Why Was It Cancelled?
Despite reportedly having four additional series planned by creator Sarah Phelps, the show was axed after one series due to insufficient viewer response and budget constraints. Phelps, who has penned over 90 episodes of EastEnders and BBC adaptations like Great Expectations and Oliver Twist, revealed the cancellation on social media, saying she was 'gutted'.
Period drama fanatics can watch all six episodes of The Crimson Field, now streaming on Amazon Prime.
