Arcadia, the dystopian drama described as “top notch” and “captivating”, has found a new streaming home in the UK.
The Belgian-Dutch series is set in the titular state, a “heavily-surveilled” nation which is formed in a dystopian world. Despite its peaceful exterior, corruption is rife among the elites, with a scandal emerging for a family after fraud is discovered.
Starring Gene Bervoets and Monic Hendrickx, the first season of the series is now available in the UK, with all eight instalments being added to Channel 4. A second season premiered in Belgium earlier this year, though that is not yet available in the UK.
The series has received a generally positive response from audiences since its premiere in 2023, with IMDb currently reporting an average user score of 6.4 out of 10 from over 1500 reviews.
“Although the world in which it takes place lacks some depth, the plot becomes more mysterious and gripping towards the end,” wrote one user on the site, with the viewer praising the “impressive” costumes and environments.
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“The several themes meshed together perfectly,” wrote one other user as they said it was “surprisingly good”, with another adding: “[Arcadia is a] must see because it raises many questions how to act or not to act in a dictatorial regime.”
“Boy this does not disappoint… It has a vibe that really sucks you into the story from the very first episode. When an episode ends you just want to watch more. I also think it’s very well acted,” said one user, with another describing the series as “awesome”.
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There was also a positive review from a user on Google, writing: “This is a top-notch series with a captivating story and brilliant actors who really know what they’re doing. I’m very glad I watched this series, especially because of its message. 5 stars absolutely deserved!”
If survival thrillers are more to your liking than dystopian dramas, then Channel 4 has you covered with The Devil’s Leap, a French-language series which follows a father and daughter as they witness a crime while hiking.
Arcadia season 1 is streaming now on Channel 4.
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Reporter, Digital Spy George is a freelance writer who specialises in Movies and TV. After graduating with a degree in Film Studies and Journalism from De Montfort University, in which he analysed the early works of Richard Linklater for his dissertation, he wrote for several websites for GRV Media. Â His film tastes vary from blockbusters like Mission: Impossible and John Wick to international directors such as Paolo Sorrentino and Hirokazu Kore-eda, and has attended both the London and Berlin film festivals.
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