Watch The Halcyon

The Halcyon is a British television series set in London during World War II. The drama, which premiered in late 2016, follows the lives of the staff and guests of the titular hotel as they navigate the uncertainty and danger of the war years. The show is anchored by a talented and diverse cast, led by Steven Mackintosh and Olivia Williams as the hotel's general manager and the hotel owner's wife, respectively. Mackintosh's character is a steady hand who must balance the competing demands of his guests, his staff, and the wartime authorities, while Williams' character is a complex and often troubled figure, grappling with the weight of her family's legacy and struggling to find her place in a world that has been turned upside down by war.

Alongside Mackintosh and Williams are a host of talented actors, including Annabelle Apsion as the hotel's head housekeeper, Mark Benton as the hotel's barman, and Jamie Blackley and Edward Bluemel as two of the hotel's younger and more rebellious guests. Together, these characters form a rich and diverse ensemble, each with their own unique stories and conflicts that play out against the backdrop of wartime London.

One of the standout features of The Halcyon is its focus on the personal lives and relationships of its characters. While the war and its effects are a constant presence throughout the series, the real drama and tension often come from the intimate interactions between the hotel's staff and guests. Whether it's a secret affair between two lovers, a tense confrontation between two rivals, or a heartfelt conversation between two people from different walks of life, the show excels at capturing the human drama of life during wartime.

Another notable aspect of The Halcyon is its attention to detail and period authenticity. From the fashions and hairstyles to the music and language, the show does an excellent job of immersing viewers in the world of 1940s London. This attention to detail is particularly impressive given the show's relatively modest budget and short production schedule.

Despite its many strengths, The Halcyon only ran for one season before being cancelled by its UK network. Nevertheless, the show has garnered a dedicated fanbase and remains a compelling and entertaining watch for anyone interested in the history and drama of World War II-era London.

Overall, The Halcyon is a well-crafted and engaging historical drama, anchored by a strong cast and a keen eye for detail. It's a show that will appeal to anyone with an interest in the history and culture of wartime Britain, as well as to fans of character-driven drama with a strong emphasis on interpersonal relationships and emotional depth. While it may have been short-lived, the legacy of The Halcyon is sure to endure for years to come.

The Halcyon is a series that ran for 1 seasons (8 episodes) between October 2, 2017 and on Ovation