Watch NW by Zadie Smith

NW is a British drama television series based on the novel of the same name by Zadie Smith. The show follows the lives of four individuals who grew up in a council estate in Northwest London and now, as adults, are faced with the harsh realities of life. At the center of the show is the character of Natalie Blake, played by Nikki Amuka-Bird. Natalie is a successful barrister who, despite her achievements, still feels disconnected from her working-class upbringing. She struggles to reconcile her present with her past and grapples with questions of identity, race, and class.

The other three characters in the show - Leah Hanwell (played by Phoebe Fox), Felix Cooper (played by Richie Campbell), and Nathan Bogle (played by O.T. Fagbenle) - also come from the same council estate as Natalie. Leah is a hard-working, aspiring writer who is loyal to her friends but is often frustrated with their choices. Felix is an ex-convict trying to turn his life around, but finds himself caught up in dangerous situations. Nathan is a recovering addict who is struggling to establish a stable life for himself and his girlfriend.

Through the stories of these four characters, the show explores themes of race and class, the impact of childhood experiences on adult life, and the search for identity and purpose. The characters' lives intersect and overlap in unexpected ways, revealing the complex connections that exist within a community.

The show is set in modern-day London and is filmed on location in the city, which adds to the authenticity of the setting. The cinematography is gritty and realistic, reflecting the harsh realities of life for those living in the council estate. The soundtrack, which features a mix of urban and classical music, adds to the atmosphere of the show and helps to convey the emotions of the characters.

Overall, NW is a thought-provoking and engaging drama that delves into important issues facing contemporary society. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in exploring themes of race, class, and identity through the lens of compelling storytelling.

NW by Zadie Smith is a series that ran for 1 seasons (2 episodes) between November 14, 2016 and on BritBox