Fans of period dramas are being urged to watch a miniseries from 2022, which is streaming for free on BBC iPlayer. The series, which is one of many masterpiece period dramas available, follows Ursula Todd, a woman in the first half of the 20th century who “experiences an endless cycle of birth, death, and rebirth”.

Viewers discover how Ursula (played by Thomasin McKenzie) dies one night in 1910 and on the same night, she is reborn and survives. She then lives and dies in different circumstances time and again, being reborn into alternate roles.

She navigates each life through a critical time period that spans two world wars. The series, titled Life After Life, was commissioned by the BBC back in 2020 and it is a four-part adaptation of Kate Atkinson’s novel.

The period drama, which opens during the Second World War, also stars Sian Clifford as Sylvie Todd, James McArdle as Hugh Todd and Jessica Hynes as Mrs Glover. The Guardian described the war drama as “emotional”, adding: “The show’s main priority is apparent from the start: making people cry.

“If you like the feeling of being overwhelmed by vicarious trauma and grief then you’re in for a treat. And the anguish is thoroughly addictive.” Viewers at home also took to IMDb reviews to share their thoughts.

Annbaldwin-55777 commented: “Life After Life is undoubtedly the best adaptation/drama series I’ve seen on TV for a very long time. Superb acting by the entire cast and wonderful production values.

“Binge-watched the entire series on iPlayer and worth the licence fee alone just for a drama like this!”

Stephencardell said: “What a pleasure it is to watch something that is intelligent and meaningful and beautifully written and brilliantly acted.

“The story itself is a deep one. Philosophically and emotionally. It deals with life and death and loss and love and everything that makes up a single life. But for Ursula, a single life lived many, many times

“McKenzie is an incredible actor. She brings so much depth to the character. She is an absolute joy to watch,” they added, as Holliemarie-h hailed it a “fantastic adaptation of a brilliant novel”.

They continued: “When I saw Kate Atkinson’s outstanding novel Life After Life was being adapted, I was quietly hopeful, but also nervous as the book seems ‘unadaptable’.

“However, one episode in and I quickly realised this is a faithful, captivating and engaging adaptation of the novel. First of all the casting is incredible. I especially loved the casting of Sylvie and Hugh, Ursula’s parents.

“Ursula herself is beautifully portrayed by various actresses. Although the story has a repetitive element, each ‘life’ had its own special moments to keep you engaged.

“Set against the backdrop of war and this becomes a unique period drama that stays with you. 10/10, couldn’t fault it.”

Life After Life is available to watch on BBC iPlayer