Watch The Pillars of the Earth

The Pillars of the Earth is an epic historical drama set in medieval England, adapted from the bestselling novel by Ken Follett. The story follows the lives of several characters whose fates become intertwined as they navigate the tumultuous times of the 12th century. At the center of the story is Prior Philip (played by Matthew Macfadyen), a devout and idealistic monk who seeks to rebuild his abbey and improve the lives of his people. He must contend with corrupt nobles, scheming bishops, and a brutal civil war that threatens to tear apart the kingdom.

Meanwhile, Tom Builder (played by Rufus Sewell) is a struggling builder who dreams of building a magnificent cathedral that will stand as a symbol of hope and faith for generations to come. He teams up with Prior Philip to bring his vision to life, but must overcome poverty, disease, and political intrigue in order to succeed.

The cast also includes Ian McShane as Waleran Bigod, a power-hungry bishop who will stop at nothing to maintain his grip on the church and the kingdom; Eddie Redmayne as Jack, a young peasant who becomes an apprentice to Tom Builder and learns the craft of stonemasonry; and Hayley Atwell as Aliena, a noblewoman who is forced to fend for herself after her father's downfall.

The Pillars of the Earth is a sweeping and immersive epic that brings to life the sights, sounds, and struggles of medieval England in vivid detail. The production values are top-notch, with gorgeous sets, costumes, and cinematography that transport the viewer back in time.

The story is full of twists and turns, as the characters face a wide range of challenges and obstacles that test their faith, their courage, and their loyalty. The themes of love, betrayal, and redemption are woven throughout, as each character must confront their own demons and find a way to rise above their circumstances.

Overall, The Pillars of the Earth is a must-see for fans of historical dramas and epic storytelling. With a talented cast, beautiful visuals, and a compelling story that keeps you on the edge of your seat, it is a true masterpiece of television.

The Pillars of the Earth is a 2010 drama with a runtime of 3 hours and 23 minutes.