Viewers have hailed the period drama 'The Mill' as a '10 star series', praising its 'realistic' and 'authentic' depiction of 1830s Britain during the Industrial Revolution. The show is currently available to stream for free on Channel 4 or via subscription on Amazon Prime Video.
What is 'The Mill' About?
Created by Emily Dalton, who drew upon archival records from the National Trust Property, the 2013 costume drama is based on real-life people and stories from the 1830s. It focuses on the textile mill labourers at Quarry Bank Mill in Cheshire, England, offering an unflinching examination of life during that era, with some fictional characters and incidents interwoven. The series was shot on location in Cheshire to ensure faithful representation.
The show explores challenging subjects including child labour legislation, workers' entitlements, industrial safety, and the political campaign to improve these conditions. Its central protagonists are Esther Price (Kerrie Hayes) and Daniel Bate (Matthew McNulty).
Cast and Critical Acclaim
The Mill features Kerrie Hayes and Matthew McNulty in principal roles, alongside Donald Sumpter, Barbara Marten, Jamie Draven, Andrew Lee Potts, Rosilyn Ann Southgate, Katherine Rose Morley, Holly Lucas, and Sope Dirisu. Hayes received a BAFTA nomination for Best Leading Actress for her portrayal.
One IMDB user review stated: 'The Mill is a captivating historical series illustrating the draconian conditions experienced by the working classes in the Cotton Mills. It is exceptionally well written, casted, directed, filmed and delivered by a fine array of actors.' Another added: 'It addresses the kind of oppression women, children and the poor have faced throughout time... It is definitely a 10 star series.'
Seasons and Cancellation
The series, written by John Fay and directed by James Hawes, encompasses two seasons. The first series is set during the 1830s and comprises four episodes, while the second season, containing six episodes broadcast in 2014, advances the narrative from 1838 to 1842. In 2014, Channel 4 axed the series, leaving the narrative incomplete, much to viewers' disappointment.
One fan lamented: 'Addictive and compelling... So disappointed to hear there are to be no more seasons. Leaving the story unfinished sadly. Such a shame.' Another viewer posted: 'Why did it get axed? This had great bones... an excellent production through and through. It is such a wasted opportunity.'
