The BBC crime thriller Vigil, which originally aired in 2021, has been praised as a "fascinating" and "excellent" miniseries that appeals to fans of Broadchurch and Happy Valley. Created by Tom Edge and produced by World Productions, the show is set predominantly aboard a Royal Navy ballistic missile submarine, HMS Vigil, a location that intensifies the suspense and claustrophobic atmosphere.
Plot and Setting
The first series, consisting of six episodes, debuted on BBC One in August 2021. It stars Suranne Jones, Rose Leslie, Shaun Evans, Paterson Joseph, Gary Lewis, and Martin Compston. The story begins with a death aboard the submarine shortly after the mysterious disappearance of a Scottish fishing trawler. As police investigations unfold, they clash with the Royal Navy and MI5, escalating the drama.
Critical Reception
On Rotten Tomatoes, critic Rachel Cooke described the series as "brutal and indubitably chilling," noting its "uncanny documentary streak." Viewers have also expressed strong opinions. One called it a "wonderful gritty British crime drama with a twist." Another said: "Fascinating show! The story unfolds with two lines of the investigation taking place simultaneously on land and onboard." A fourth added: "Good suspense, excellent characters, I liked the use of flashbacks to dive into Amy and Kirsten's relationship."
Series Continuation
A second series aired in December 2023, and a third was commissioned in early 2025, with production starting in September 2025. One viewer enthused: "Love the character. Love the suspense. It just keeps getting better. Hurry up and announce season 3 so we have something to look forward to!"
Audience Feedback
While most reviews have been positive, some viewers found the ending "a bit strained and melodramatic," though they admitted the rest was excellent. Others noted that the same-sex relationship thread might not appeal to all, but overall, Vigil is considered an "excellent production."
Vigil is currently streaming on BBC iPlayer.
