BBC crime drama Time, an anthology series created by Jimmy McGovern, has been hailed by fans and critics as 'the very best television has to offer' and a 'must-watch masterpiece'. The series, which explores life inside the British prison system, boasts a near-perfect 96% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
Star-Studded Cast and Critical Acclaim
The first series, which aired on BBC One on June 6, 2021, features Sean Bean and Stephen Graham in principal roles. The second series, released on October 29, 2023, stars Jodie Whittaker, Tamara Lawrance, Bella Ramsey, and Siobhan Finneran. A third series was confirmed in November 2025, with Finneran returning alongside David Tennant.
Time has received widespread critical praise, winning Best Mini-Series at the 2022 BAFTA TV Awards. Sean Bean won Best Actor for his performance, while Stephen Graham received a nomination for Best Supporting Actor. One reviewer called it 'absolutely breathtaking', while another described it as 'relentless, unnerving and urgent storytelling, TV drama that matters'.
Audience and Critic Reactions
Viewers have been equally captivated, with one calling it 'probably the greatest short series ever made' and praising the performances of Bean and Graham as 'the performances of their lives'. Another viewer said: 'Absolutely riveting drama, must watch from start to finish. Brilliantly acted and excellent plot.' An IMDB user wrote: 'Gut wrenching. Often difficult to watch, but nonetheless an absolute triumph that demonstrates the very best of British drama.'
Production and Availability
The series was shot largely in the Liverpool City Region, with HM Prison Shrewsbury providing the backdrop for prison scenes. Both series are currently available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
