The 2002 drama series 'Doctor Zhivago,' starring the late Sam Neill, Keira Knightley, and Hugh Bonneville, is now available to stream on ITV and ITVX. The announcement follows the death of Neill, who passed away at age 78 from pneumonia, as confirmed by his management. The Northern Ireland-born New Zealand actor, best known for his role as Dr. Alan Grant in the 'Jurassic Park' franchise, had been declared cancer-free months earlier after battling angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma.
Series Overview and Cast
Based on Boris Pasternak's 1957 novel, which was also adapted into a 1965 film, the four-part series is set during World War I and the Russian Revolution. ITV describes it as a gripping drama about Dr. Yuri Zhivago, who is torn between two women. The synopsis notes that after witnessing his father's suicide, Yuri moves to Moscow and becomes captivated by a young girl named Lara.
Hans Matheson plays Yuri Zhivago, with Knightley as Lara Guishar Antipova and Neill as Victor Komarovsky. Other cast members include Kris Marshall as Pasha Antipov, Celia Imrie as Anna Gromeko, and Bonneville as Andrey Zhivago. The series was directed by Giacomo Campiotti.
Critical Reception and Audience Reactions
'Doctor Zhivago' holds a 78% Rotten Tomatoes score, with viewers calling it a masterpiece. One fan said: 'A masterpiece by Giacomo Campiotti. It deserves an Oscar.' Another praised the cast: 'Wow - this was fantastic! ... Both actors should be commended. And as for Sam Neill! He was amazing. The screen practically frosted up when he appeared!'
A different viewer commented: 'I haven't seen the 1st version of Dr Zhivago or read the book but this film is absolutely amazing.' Another added: 'This mini-series is possibly the best UK mini-series I have ever seen ... Sam Neill on top form steals every scene he's in.'
