Foyle's War, the historical wartime detective drama created by Anthony Horowitz, has captured audiences, with viewers giving it 'maximum stars' and claiming they have 'never seen a better show on television'. The acclaimed series, streaming free on ITVX, is based on real events that took place during and after the Second World War.
An acclaimed cast and a long TV run
The show stars Michael Kitchen as DCS Christopher Foyle, alongside Honeysuckle Weeks, Anthony Howell, Julian Ovenden and Ellie Haddington. Weeks, in particular, has been praised for her performance.
Foyle's War first premiered on television in October 2002 and ran for eight seasons until 2015. The series was cancelled in 2007 but revived in 2010 after encouraging audience numbers for its final series. Over the years, it has been nominated for three BAFTA Television Awards, winning one, and has become a highly acclaimed wartime drama for both audiences and critics.
Critics praise the detail-rich plotting
One reviewer wrote: "This is quality, smart stuff -- plot points hinge on citizenship classifications, ration coupons, the location of safe houses. It requires that viewers watch carefully, and pay attention to details."
Another critic said of Michael Kitchen: "Foyle's War... returns to Mystery!... with the admirable Michael Kitchen in his usual top form." A third critic added: "You don't have to pay close attention to Foyle's War, but it's worth it for the detail-rich historical context of Anthony Horowitz's plots, especially now the series has arrived in the murky moral fog of post-war London."
Viewers call it 'mesmerising'
Audiences have been equally enthusiastic. One viewer wrote on Rotten Tomatoes: "On our second watching of the entire series. It’s so well-acted and thoughtful, and you learn a bit of history with each episode. Michael Kitchen and Honeysuckle Weeks are so engaging, such a delight to watch, it’s mesmerizing."
A fan of the show said: "Maximum Stars. I've never seen a better show on television. 'Foyle's War' is deep, thoughtful television art. Great premise. Acting is tremendous. Only the bad guys overact. To see the characters is to love them. Sets and details have been discussed at length and it's all just gorgeous."
Another user review read: "Outstanding! One of the very best series of all time! This is what great TV is. An outstanding series, taking place from the start of WW2 to the start of the Cold War, but told with the perspective of those 'back home' whom the Wars impacted. A remarkable achievement. The cast, first and foremost Michael Kitchen as Foyle, are remarkable. TV, or filmed entertainment just does not get any better than this."
Foyle’s War is available to stream for free on ITVX.
