Over the years, British TV shows have started entering the hearts of worldwide audiences. Besides the drama and comedy gems likeThe CrownorFleabag, the British possess a talent for creating exceptional miniseries. Some have proven so successful that their creators decided to transform them into multi-season shows, as seen withFleabagitself. The best British miniseries strike a golden balance between movies and TV series, making the most of their limited screen time.
As miniseries are becoming more sought-after, many of the British ones earned positive reviews from both audiences and critics, propelling their popularity. The format of 6 to 12 episodes proves beneficial not only for the production team but also for the viewers, who appreciate concise and complete plots without any filler episodes. This also enables the characters and their relationships to remain more consistent, as shorter shows are typically written by a single screenwriter or a pair of them.Dozens of British limited series have effectively embraced this format, with some outshining others in delivering top-notch content. FromI May Destroy YoutoWolf Hall, here are ten such British shows you’re able to enjoy over a single weekend.
15’Inside Man' (2022)
Created by Steven Moffat
Steven Moffat’sInside Manpresents an engrossing story taking place in two distinct settings: a small UK town and a US penitentiary. The first storyline follows Anglican vicar Harry Watling (David Tennant), attempting to save his son Ben from false accusations of possessing illegal videos of children. In order to do so, he locks up Ben’s tutor Janice in his cellar. On the other side of the Atlantic, a death-row prisoner, Jefferson Grieff (Stanley Tucci) tries to figure out her whereabouts, as requested by Janice’s acquaintance Beth (Lydia West). Throughout the four episodes, viewers cannot help but remain curious about how the plots intertwine and ultimately resolve.
Despite having enjoyed overlapping careers in the industry for 35 years,Inside Manmarks the first on-screen collaboration between Tucci and Tennant, creating a buzz of excitementamong the audience.The Guardiancompared Tucci’s performanceas Grieff toAnthony Hopkins' Hannibal Lecter, underlining his excellence in bringing the character to life. Adding to the show’s quality are the remarkable performances by Moffat’s sonLouis Oliverand West. The latter has established herself as a household name in the world of limited series, having acted inDracula,Suspicion,The Pentaverate,and other shows before.
Inside Man
14’Collateral' (2018)
Created by David Hare
Collateraloffers a distinctive perspective within the realm of British television, navigating a narrative anchored by the remarkable talent ofCarey Mulligan.Collateralimmerses viewers in a gripping tale that inspects the immediate aftermath of a single crime and the domino effects it generates across interconnected lives. Set against the backdrop of London, the series develops its storyline across four episodes. The effect of seemingly unrelated actions becomes a central theme, exposing the fragility of personal relationships and the broader implications on the community.
In essence,Collateralserves as a provocative exploration of cause and effect, inviting audiences to reflecton the profound impact of seemingly ordinary actions. The series transcends traditional crime dramas andthrillers by intertwining its narrative with contemporary socialtopics, including immigration and LGBTQ+ topics. In addition to Mulligan’s strong lead,Collateralgarnered acclaim for its supporting performances, earningBillie Pipera BAFTA TV award nomination.
Collateral
13’The White Queen' (2013)
Created by Emma Frost
Crafted by screenwriter and showrunnerEmma Frost,The White Queentransports viewers to the landscape of 15th-century England, examining the renowned Wars of the Roses and the power struggles that defined the era. Adapted fromPhilippa Gregory’s historical novels, the series unfolds as a captivating drama that reveals the familial conflicts and personal challenges faced by women during the dynastic war. The show draws viewers’ attention to the lives of three influential historical figures: Elizabeth Woodville (Rebecca Ferguson), Margaret Beaufort (Amanda Hale), and Anne Neville (Faye Marsay). The narrative weaves together their perspectives, providing an exploration of ambition, betrayal, and the quest for power in a fast-paced political landscape.
The dynamics among the characters, both within and outside the court, are brought to life by outstanding performances by the cast,adding layers to the narrative, makingThe White Queena fictional chronicle of the complexities shaping English history. While the BBC canceled the show back in 2013, Starz produced two sequels later, with the character of Margaret Beaufort acting as a link between the series. However, Hale did not reprise her role; instead, it was passed on toMichelle FairleyandHarriet Walter.
The White Queen
12’And Then There Were None' (2015)
Created by Sarah Phelps
And Then Were Noneis a three-partshow based on a best-selling mystery novelof the same name by the iconic English writer,Agatha Christie. The series chronicles the story of a group of strangers who receive invitations to a private island, where their dark and deadly secrets slowly come to light. One by one, all the characters are haunted by their past, getting hunted down until, as the title suggests, none are left.
And Then There Were Nonemasterfully captures the anxiety and uncertainty in the air, making it nearly impossible for the viewers to guess the killer’s identity before the show concludes. Backstories unwind one at a time, leaving the audience with dozens of questions to ponder before the final reveal. The cast is led by Oscar- and Emmy-nominated actorsMiranda RichardsonandCharles Dance, whose extraordinary performances are complemented byMaeve Dermodyin the role of a young governess, Vera Claythorne.
Watch on Hoopla
11’Giri/Haji' (2019)
Created by Joe Barton
Navigating the crossroads of British and Japanese cultures,Giri/Haji(translating to Duty/Shame) distinguishes itself in the television world. Created byJoe Barton,this bilingual BBC dramadelves into the realms of crime, family, and cultural collisions. The narrative unfolds as Kenzo Mori (Takehiro Hira), a Tokyo detective, navigates the labyrinth of Yakuza and criminal London while searching for his believed-to-be-dead brother, Yuto (Yōsuke Kubozuka).
Giri/Hajiskillfully explores the shades of cultural identity, depicting the clash between traditional Japanese ethics and the fast-paced urban life of contemporary London. Characters grapple with moral dilemmas, bearing the weight of familial expectations. Hira’s portrayal is complemented by the performances ofKelly MacdonaldandWill Sharpeas Kenzo’s guides in London. Along with offering a rare glimpse into the underworld of organized crime in both Tokyo and London,Giri/Hajibecomes a commentary on the cultural values shaping its characters. The decision to embrace a bilingual format adds a unique flavor to the storytelling, contributing toGiri/Hajireceiving universal critical acclaim and standing out not only in Britain, but in the international television landscape.
Watch on Netflix
10’Years and Years' (2019)
Created by Russell T Davies
WhileBlack Mirrorprimarily explores a dystopian future shaped by technological shifts,Years and Yearstakes a critical look at society first. The series follows the journey of a close-knit Manchester family over the years, set against the backdrop of political and cultural changes in the UK and globally. The show delves into the consequences of seemingly small actions, from the strain on personal relationships to the imminent threat of nuclear war.
Spanning from 2019 to 2034,Years and Yearsexamines the trends and the overall state of mankind to predict the future. Despite its predominantly pessimistic tone, the show serves as a lesson on the dos and don’ts of our future decisions.Years and Yearsboasts an ensemble cast led byEmma Thompson, whose satirical portrayal of a “celebrity turned prime minister” earned her critical acclaimVarietydescribing her performance as scene-stealing.
Watch on Max
9’Wolf Hall' (2015)
Created by Peter Straughan
Crafted byPeter Straughan,Wolf Hallimmerses audiences in a historical dramathat chronicles the political machinations and personal trials of Thomas Cromwell (Mark Rylance), a key figure in the court of King Henry VIII (portrayed byDamian Lewis). The series uncovers the complex mosaic of Tudor politics and the complicated relationships that shaped one of the most pivotal periods in English history. The narrative weaves together political tactics, religious conflicts, and personal challenges, offering a multifaceted portrait of a man navigating dangerous seas.
Despite many cast members being veterans in the industry, their performances inWolf Hallare nothing short of mesmerizing. Rylance leads the ensemble with a compelling portrayal, his second appearance as a confidant of Henry VIII after playing Thomas Boleyn inThe Other Boleyn Girl. His performance is supported byClaire Foy,Jonathan Pryce, andAnton Lesser, withTom Hollandmaking his TV debut. As of 2023,Wolf Hallremains the most recent British limited seriesto win a Golden Globe.
8’Jesus of Nazareth' (1977)
Directed by Franco Zeffirelli
Biblical movies are common and popular enough, but the few Biblical TV shows that are out there don’t get nearly as much praise as they deserve. Such is the case withJesus of Nazareth, a British-Italian retelling of the life of Jesus Christ. From before the Nativity to the Crucifixion and Resurrection, it’s a historical epic just as outstanding as the best films in the genre of the time, complete with incredible visuals and a score by none other thanMaurice Jarre.
With these high-quality technical production elements andRobert Powelldelivering one of the best portrayals of Jesus that movies or television have ever seen,Jesus of Nazarethis a beautiful miniseries that one doesn’t need to be religious in order to fully appreciate.Emotionally powerful and grand beyond belief, it’s ’70s British television at its finest.
Jesus of Nazareth
Watch on Peacock
7’It’s a Sin' (2021)
Created by a prolific British screenwriterRussel T Davies,It’s a Sinrecounts theexperiences of an LGBTQ+ friend groupnavigating the 1980s AIDS crisis. The central narrative unfolds as a closeted young man, Ritchie Tozer (Olly Alexander) moves to London, finding acceptance and sharing a home with four peers. Ritchie embraces life until he unknowingly contracts HIV, leading to his eventual demise.
Despite being the debut or sophomore appearance for most of the cast, both viewers and critics were fascinated by them. All five members of the main ensemble, including Alexander, received BAFTA TV nominations for their performances. Elevating the series further are notable guest appearances byStephen FryandNeil Patrick Harris. The intricate dynamics among the main characters, both individually and as a friend group, make the show a captivating and engaging watch.It’s a Singarnered widespread acclaim for challenging stereotypes surrounding AIDS, particularly with meticulous research by Daviesand the inclusion ofNathaniel Hallin the cast, who is HIV-positive.
It’s a Sin
6’A Very English Scandal' (2018)
Created by Russell T. Davies
A Very English Scandalunfolds over three episodes, based on the real-life political scandal surrounding Jeremy Thorpe (portrayed byHugh Grant), a Member of the British Parliament. The show navigates the political landscape of 1960s and 1970s Britain, engaging viewers in a world of secrecy, power, and scandals.A Very English Scandalexplores the scandalous tale of Thorpe’s attempt to silence his former lover, Norman Scott (Ben Whishaw), whose existence threatens to expose the hidden side of Thorpe’s personal and political life.
Grant delivers a standout performance, capturing the characteristics of a charismatic politician haunted by his own choices.A Very English Scandalmasterfully builds tension and uncertainty, while retaining its comedic elements. As the scandal unfolds, viewers embark on a journey through the backstories of the characters, unraveling the layers of deception and political intrigue. The series offers an exploration of the impact of societal norms and political maneuvering on individuals, shedding light on the personal cost of maintaining a deceiving mask in the public eye. The show’s success prompted the producers to turn the show into an anthology,releasingA Very British Scandaland announcinganother installment,A Very Royal Scandal, starringMichael SheenandRuth Wilson.
