BBC and HBO's 'His Dark Materials': Review

Filled with emotion, mystery and big-budget escapism, this latest small-screen adaption of Pullman's controversial novels is an utter delight from start to finish

The cast of 'His Dark Materials' (CREDIT: BBC/HBO)

by Jack Linsdell

Ten years ago, the notion of popular fantasy novels (with large fanbases) being adapted into big-budget, star-studded, family-oriented TV series was unheard of. In 2002, filmmakers could turn much adored fantasy books, like those penned by J.R.R Tolkien, into hit (commercially at least) movies - see Peter Jackson's The Lord of the Rings. In 2020, the whole "Netflix and chill" era has taken over pop culture, with audiences preferring to consume their filmed entertainment from the comfort of their own home. Now, streaming/TV has more money (and audience demand) than theatrical moviemaking. That's why the latest adaption of Phillip Pullman's controversial but very popular trilogy of fantasy books finds itself as an eight-part series for the BBC and HBO. How times have changed. 

His Dark Materials, which aired via the BBC (in the UK) and HBO (internationally) late last year, is an outstanding production, one that entertains and captivates from start to finish, and with some of the best production values and visual effects work I've ever seen on the small screen. Above all, it acts as a sobering reminder as to how far TV has come in the last decade and signposts the way it's going. 

The series adapts the first book of Pullman's trilogy (The Golden Compass), which was also given (unsuccessfully) the Hollywood makeover in 2007 with The Golden Compass film. That Daniel Craig/Eva Green flick tried to capitalise on its leading stars' success with Casino Royale the previous year, however despite earning decent box office ($378 million on a $180 million budget) it was ripped apart by fans and critics for diluting, and out right ignoring, the most controversial elements/themes from the novel, reeking of studio post-production meddling. His Dark Materials, which sees Pullman oversee as executive producer, suffers no such fate, applauded by most for being far more faithful to the source material and actively embracing all the controversial bits of the novel. So, if your a fan, this series is bound to please you. 

If you aren't, like I wasn't, then you're in for just as much of a good time. I've never read Pullman's novels, nor did I know anything about the mythology or story going into this. Yet, the series is so incredibly engaging and compelling from episode one, you get drawn in quickly. Writer Jack Thorne (who impressively wrote all eight one hour episodes by himself) holds your hand throughout, keeping those new to Pullman's world and characters away from any sort of confusion. Sure, when big plot and thematic revelations come during the last two episodes, you can get a little lost, although that's nothing a little post-watch research won't clear up for you. Each episode is well-paced, full of tension, compelling characters and lots of "what's going to happen next" moments that Thorne keeps you hooked with. Yes, there are some minor plot holes towards the end but I'm not sure if this was a fault of the series (if so being tight for time is understandable) or the novel itself, but considering Thorne is the sole writer of this massive project, these are tiny niggles in what is a very impressive piece of writing. 

Acting wise, Dafne Keen (from Logan fame) gives a charming and layered starring turn as Lyra Blackwell. She anchors the whole series with her youthful energy and vibrant eyes, and becomes a character we as the audience really invest into. I'm most looking forward to seeing her return as the character in season two, and the bright future she has as an actress ahead of her. Ruth Wilson gives an outstanding performance as Mrs Coulter, with incredible screen presence she steals every scene she's in with such emotive and (at many times) fear-inducing looks and mannerisms. She's quite underrated despite her impressive filmogography of both TV and film projects. Other big names that pop up with elegance and charm are Lin Manuel Miranda and James McCavoy (who plays the infamous Lord Asriel), which help His Dark Materials to feel "bigger" than it actually is. When you see a TV series with such big names involved like this, it amplifies that level of entertainment you get sat in your living room. 

As I mentioned, in terms of the extensive visual effects work that has gone into the series, it truly does feel epic and big in all the right connotations of the words. It truly immerses you into the fantasy world, going all the way from an alternate version of London to the snowy plains of the North. It provides that escapist entertainment that is all too rare in TV dramas. You feel transported, and that's down to such top class production values, costume work and gorgeous cinematography. 

Composer Lorne Balfe is on a bit of a run after Mission: Impossible - Fallout and this. His score adds so much magic, mystery and emotion to the series that the soundtrack alone has to be one of the best television soundtracks ever made. Not to mention a killer opening title theme and some of the best character suite music ever written. As much as anybody else, Balfe is a big reason why the series is such a success. 

For those after some fantastical escapism grounded by charming characters and a mystery-style plot, His Dark Materials more than delivers on an entertainment front. If you've not read the books, the series will stand out as being like nothing you've ever seen before. For those after a little more in their dramas (or die hard fans), the series embraces and explores the novels controversial thematic discussions around religion, freedom of thought and parenthood, which add add something a little deeper to get your brain thinking. It reminded me of the BBC series The Chronicles of Narnia which adapted C.S Lewis's beloved books so excellently to the small screen between 1988 and 1990 and which I grew up on as a kid. 

Overall, His Dark Materials will delight fans of Pullman's original books but also give those who have yet to charter into his fantasy worlds a rare and unique small screen experience. Tense, emotional and very engaging, His Dark Materials is an utter delight that will leave you hungry for more. 

5/5 STARS