Fans and critics have praised one of the BBC’s best miniseries, which is based on one of the most iconic pieces of literature of all time.

The series stars a slew of familiar faces (Image: BBC)

People have praised a BBC miniseries, with some reviews hailing it as a “breathtaking masterpiece”. The BBC regularly adapts iconic pieces of literature into TV shows and miniseries, with many of them receiving hugely positive reviews from both critics and viewers at home. One of them, which was released ten years ago, is still considered one of the broadcaster’s best adaptations.

War & Peace aired in 2016 and is based on the iconic book of the same name by Leo Tolstoy, which was published all the way back in 1867. The series was a hit with viewers and continues to impress as it is free to stream on BBC iPlayer. Not only does the story grip those who indulge in the period drama, but it stars a slew of familiar faces, including Lily James, James Norton and Jack Lowden. Currently, War & Peace has an impressive 88% score on review site Rotten Tomatoes, as well as 8.1 out of 10 on IMDb.

War & Peace is the story of Napoleon Bonaparte’s conflict with Russia as it reaches its peak. As a result, a few members of five aristocratic families foresee their lives changing forever.

One review by The Cambridge Language Collective called it a breathtaking masterpiece. The reviewr writes: “This series boasts a stellar cast, in both major and minor roles. Lily James is enchanting as the spirited Natasha Rostova, while James Norton plays the brooding hero, Andrei Bolkonsky, with remarkable depth and sensitivity. Paul Dano is perhaps more subtle than the other two leads, but I think that this softness is perfect for Pierre, particularly in later episodes.

“Aside from the leading trio, the supporting cast also do a wonderful job at breathing life into the scandalous society of Tolstoy’s novel, despite their limited screen time, with performances from Jim Broadbent, Gillian Anderson, Stephen Rea, and Rebecca Front, among others.”

Meanwhile, casual viewers also heaped praise on this show. One Rotten Tomatoes user said: “Great adaptation, excellent visuals, excellent cast. The battle sequences were intense and grisly. Be warned if you’re squeamish.”

Another shared: “Beautiful show that gives a new light to the classic story. Lily James gave an innocent Natasha that everyone has such pity for, and Paul Dano gave a wonderful performance as Pierre.”

A third wrote: “Thank you, BBC, for even trying this huge production. Some sad war scenes take the breath away. The cast, cinematography, clothes and horsey people were great. Well done, whoever signed off on this production.”