Series Name: All the Light We Cannot See
Cast: Aria Mia Loberti, Louis Hofmann, Lars Eidinger, Hugh Laurie, Mark Ruffalo, Marion Bailey
Director: Shawn Levy
Genre: Drama
Available on: Netflix
In the backdrop of World War II, this captivating miniseries, adapted from Anthony Doerr’s Pulitzer
Prize-winning novel, immerses viewers into a small French town where a blind girl courageously
broadcasts her radio show, sending encrypted messages to both American soldiers and her own
family. Living alone, she conveys profound messages of hope amid the chaos of war. Alongside her,
an orphaned German boy, forced to fight for the Nazis, finds solace in radio broadcasts, dreaming of
a better future.
Director Shawn Levy’s decision to cast German actors for the role of German soldiers adds
authenticity to the narrative. Mark Ruffalo and Hugh Laurie deliver exceptional performances,
seamlessly weaving together the intricate storyline. The series employs non-linear storytelling,
skillfully incorporating flashbacks, while the meticulous attention to detail in recreating the 1940s era
is commendable, evident in the period-accurate houses, wardrobes, and hairstyles.
The narrative kicks off with a search for family, unravelling a compelling tale where a German soldier
becomes obsessed with the blind girl, believing she possesses something invaluable. While the plot
adheres faithfully to the original story, director Levy skilfully threads the pearls of the narrative
together on screen, infusing his unique style into the storytelling. Although the ending might be
anticipated for seasoned viewers, the series remains a beautifully crafted tale, characterized by
brilliant acting and a compelling screenplay.
This romantic series defies conventions, portraying love through the lenses of hope, beauty, and
human affection amid a world consumed by hatred. It serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring
human spirit, offering a glimpse into the lives of individuals striving for peace in a turbulent world.