All the Light We Cannot See

First thing I read when I sought reviews was all the arty critics slating this series.

These critics, as far as I'm concerned, have no idea!!!

I think it's a heartwarming story and thoroughly captivating.

Critics from the most well known establishments (yawn) are always keen to rip a good thing to shreds. They are always trying to sound extremely clever! They should not be listened to. You need to make your own mind up and believe me you will enjoy this story.

Mark Ruffalo is criticised but I think he plays a great part as Papa. And Hugh Laurie also plays a great part. How dare you tell me that these two brilliant actors warrant your ridicule!

The part played by blind actress's young Marie and older Marie are inspirational.

In summary, this 4-episode series is a remarkable and highly-produced work that goes beyond the typical TV series. Created by renowned figures Steven Knight and Shawn Levy, it tells a unique perspective of the Nazi-occupied small town in France during a historical period. The plot primarily focuses on the search for a blind young woman who becomes a symbol of resistance during the war and a young Nazi who is forced to hunt her down. The series weaves two distinct life stories, the radio plays a central role in connecting both characters, serving as a bridge that links their lives and stories together. One set in the past with intricate subplots, leading up to the heart-wrenching war scenes in the present. What makes it exceptional is the fact that the lead actress is a real blind actress with no prior acting experience, and she delivers a natural and captivating performance. It's a series leaving a lasting impression and is definitely worth watching.

Engaging and watchable 4 part series telling the tale of a blind French girl, a German soldier/radio operator and, somewhat loosely, the French resistance during WW2 in occupied St Malo in France. Good cast, Hugh Laurie as ever excellent but not convinced Mark Ruffalo was right for his part, some slightly odd accents going on there! Along with the great cast, good cinematography, pacing and dialogue make the whole thing work well if not exactly standout. Just think maybe it could/should have had more of a European feel about it considering the subject matter. Still, it's far from the worst thing Netflix has put out...

"Shawn Levy's Epic Series 'All the Light We Cannot See' premiered on Netflix on Nov. 2, 2023.

Based on Anthony Doerr's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, the four-episode limited series unfolds in a besieged city, immersing viewers in the lives of Marie-Laure, a blind French teenager, and Werner, a German soldier. Their paths cross in occupied France as they navigate the challenges of World War II.

Marie-Laure's story begins in Paris, where her father works at the Museum of Natural History. With the Nazi occupation, they seek refuge in the fortress city of Saint-Malo, accompanied by a precious and perilous museum artifact.

Meanwhile, in a German mining town, orphan Werner and his sister find solace in a radio that brings them tales from distant lands. Werner's talent for building and repairing these radios leads him into the resistance.

While the narrative flirts with romantic and fairy tale elements, it occasionally grounds itself in realism, offering a unique blend of myth and reality.

The casting of visually impaired actors, such as Loberti and Nell Sutton, who portrays young Marie, adds authenticity to the characters, story. This casting choice enhances the representation and genuine portrayal of the story's protagonists.

'All the Light We Cannot See' may not be a typical comfort watch, it offers a glimpse into a simpler time, contrasting with its wartime setting."

This is a fantastic story. Too bad the makers of it didn't invest in great writers. I know the cast is super talented, but I felt at moments that both Ruffalo and Laurie were miscast. But the dialogue at times was just plain bad. Things were said two or three times that should not have been said at all - like the audience was too stupid to understand unless they spelled things out explicitly. Still, it's worth a watch just because the story is excellent, and other than the occasionally bad writing, the rest of the film is enjoyable. Most viewers will like it - only snobs like me will find any issues with it.