‘Masterpiece’ period drama based on Stephen King classic now streaming
Netflix viewers are just discovering the historical drama 10 years after its debut.
James Franco stars in the Stephen King adaptation (Image: Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc)
Netflix viewers can’t believe they missed a 2016 thriller hailed as ‘the best Stephen King adaptation’.
The renowned horror writer released his time travel novel, 11.22. 63, in 2011, and it was turned into a limited series five years later.
The story centres on English teacher Jake Epping, who is given the chance to journey back to the 1960s to stop the assassination of former US president John F. Kennedy.
American Reddit users have only just discovered the eight-part show a decade following its release, and they’re singing its praises. Taking to the platform, one enthusiast declared: “11.22.63 IS SOOO Good!!! Highly recommended.”
They added: “How did I not know about this until now, 10 years later after it came out? Hulu did not do a good job at promoting it, Netflix put this at the top,” reports the Mirror.
It’s set in 1960s America (Image: Warner Bros. Entertainment)
Whilst it originally debuted on Hulu, the historical drama has recently arrived on Netflix in the US. British viewers, however, can currently buy the boxset on Prime Video for £5.99.
Oscar nominee James Franco stars as small-town teacher Jake. He embarks on gathering as much intelligence as possible in the days preceding the November 22 assassination, whilst establishing a new existence in 1963 to remain inconspicuous.
However, his quest to alter history quickly becomes dangerous. The period drama captivated critics and general audiences alike upon its launch, securing an impressive 83% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
One viewer lauded the series, writing: “11.22.63 is a smart, emotional time travel story that hits far more highs than lows. It blends romance, suspense, and historical drama into a bingeable ride that keeps you hooked through atmosphere and character rather than flashy twists.”
UK viewers can watch the period drama on Prime Video (Image: Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc)
Another fan shared: “I just watched the series for the second time, having read the book first. I have to say, this was the best adaptation of a Stephen King novel I have seen, and the best of any films from a book I have ever seen where I read the book in advance.”
A third enthusiast described it as a “masterpiece”, while a fourth enthused: “I’ve just finished watching 11.22.63 and it’s by far one the best series I’ve watched in a long time. The plot was amazing. I’ve watched a lot of James Franco films and to see him act in a different way compared to his usual comedy type of acting is so bizarre. But yet, he was incredible. I wish this series never ended.”
11.22.63 is available to purchase on Amazon Prime Video.
SOURCE: EXPRESS