A critically praised historical drama, inspired by a remarkable true story, has arrived on Netflix for UK audiences. All episodes of ‘The Red Road’ are now available to stream on the platform.
Where to Stream The Red Road
The series, which originally aired between 2014 and 2015, has been added to Netflix's extensive library. For those without a subscription, the show hasn't been locked behind a paywall. Both seasons are also available to stream for free on Tubi and ITVX at the time of writing, offering viewers multiple ways to access this compelling narrative.
A Plot Rooted in Real-World Injustice
The drama begins with the disappearance of a college student in a small New Jersey town, setting in motion events that upend the life of local Sheriff Harold Jensen. His investigation leads him to the neighbouring mountains, home to a federally unrecognised Native American tribe.
There, he crosses paths with the dangerous ex-convict and tribe member Phillip Kopus, whose return sows discord. Following a tragedy and a subsequent cover-up that fractures relations between the town and the tribe, Kopus seizes an opportunity, forcing Jensen to choose between his principles and the safety of his family.
The show's plot is directly based on the real-life struggles of the Ramapough Lenape Nation. It draws from the environmental injustice they faced at the Ringwood Mines landfill site in New Jersey, where toxic waste from a nearby Ford plant was dumped.
Critical Reception and Fan Adoration
Created by Aaron Guzikowski, the writer behind the film ‘Prisoners’ and the series ‘Raised by Wolves’, the show presents a nuanced look at conflict and community. While it holds a 67% critics' score on Rotten Tomatoes, its audience score tells a different story, with fans awarding it an impressive 86%.
Many viewers have expressed disappointment that the series was cancelled after its second season, leaving storylines on a cliffhanger. Praise is frequently directed at the stellar cast, led by a pre-‘Aquaman’ Jason Momoa in a role fans consider one of his finest performances, alongside Martin Henderson.
One fan commented online, "The Red Road was so good... With a cliffhanger ending they cancelled season 3, that was a big mistake. I believe the fans deserve a proper ending." Another added, "This is the most well-written, well thought-out, well produced... keeping you on the edge of your seat."
‘The Red Road’ is streaming now on Netflix, Tubi, and ITVX, offering a potent mix of thriller suspense and socially conscious historical drama.