Watch Black Narcissus

Black Narcissus is a limited series created by Amanda Coe, based on the novel by Rumer Godden. The show, which premiered on FX in November 2020, is a stunning and intense exploration of desire, faith, and colonialism. Set in the 1930s, the story follows a group of Anglican nuns who travel to a remote palace in the Himalayas to establish a convent and school for young girls. But their mission is soon complicated by the harsh environment, cultural clashes with the locals, and the haunting memories of the past.

Gemma Arterton stars as Sister Clodagh, the newly appointed sister-in-charge of the mission. She is a disciplined and determined woman, who sees her assignment as a chance to prove herself and escape from a failed love affair back home. But as she struggles to impose her authority on the unruly sisters and gain the respect of the local Indian population, she begins to question her own motivations and doubts her ability to resist temptation.

Aisling Franciosi plays Sister Ruth, a beautiful and vulnerable nun who becomes obsessed with Mr. Dean (Alessandro Nivola), the handsome and enigmatic agent of the palace's owner. Ruth's growing infatuation with Mr. Dean puts her at odds with Clodagh and the other nuns, and leads her down a path of jealousy, madness, and tragedy.

Nila Aalia portrays Kanchi, a young girl who becomes a student at the convent and a source of fascination for the nuns. Kanchi represents both the exotic and the familiar for the British nuns, who are torn between their duty to convert her to Christianity and their respect for her cultural heritage. Kanchi's transformation from a naive and curious girl to a confident and independent woman reflects the larger themes of the show, such as the clash of cultures and the struggles for identity.

The cinematography of Black Narcissus is breathtaking, capturing the awe-inspiring beauty of the Himalayan landscape and the isolation and danger of the nuns' existence. The show's visual style is influenced by the original 1947 film adaptation directed by Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger, but also adds its own artistic flair and nuance.

Black Narcissus is not for the faint of heart. The show contains several disturbing and violent scenes, as well as explicit sexual themes and religious imagery. But it is also a deeply resonant and thoughtful meditation on the human condition, told through the eyes of women who are struggling to find their place in a world that oppresses them. The show's exploration of the intersection of gender, race, and power is especially relevant in today's world, where the legacy of colonialism and its implications continue to be felt.

Although Black Narcissus is a slow-burning narrative that requires patience and attention, it is a rewarding and emotionally powerful experience. The show's strong performances, striking visuals, and haunting score create a mesmerizing atmosphere that lingers long after the final credits. Black Narcissus is a worthy adaptation of a classic novel and a must-see for fans of complex and provocative dramas.

Black Narcissus is a series that ran for 1 seasons (3 episodes) between November 23, 2020 and on FX