Watch War & Peace

War & Peace is a British-American historical period drama television miniseries that first aired in 2016. The show was developed by BBC and broadcasted for American audiences on A&E. Based on Leo Tolstoy's novel of the same name, War & Peace follows the lives of several Russian aristocrats during the Napoleonic Wars. The show is described as a grand scale event, as it spans over several years and various locations.

The star-studded cast includes Paul Dano as Pierre Bezukhov, James Norton as Prince Andrei Bolkonsky, and Lily James as Natasha Rostova. Each character's story intertwines with the others' in a complex and compelling narrative.

The first episode of War & Peace opens in Moscow in 1805 during a lavish ball. We are introduced to the wealthy Rostov family and their beautiful daughter, Natasha. The scene quickly changes as we are introduced to Pierre Bezukhov, an illegitimate son of a wealthy count who has returned to Russia from France to claim his inheritance.

As the story progresses, we see the characters navigate the politics and social norms of the time. We witness the effects of the Napoleonic Wars on the Russian people and the resulting changes within their society.

The miniseries expertly captures the inner struggles of each character as they face personal and public crises. Prince Andrei struggles with his disillusionment with the upper class and his desire for a different kind of life. Pierre Bezukhov finds himself caught up in a world he doesn't fully understand and must come to terms with his own identity. Natasha Rostova, who initially appears as a carefree youth, faces her own set of challenges as she grows and develops as a person.

The production design is nothing short of breathtaking. Each scene is beautifully crafted, with attention paid to every detail. The costumes, makeup, and set design lend a realism to the portrayal of the period. The landscape shots are particularly stunning, capturing both the beauty and the harshness of the Russian countryside.

While the show remains faithful to Tolstoy's novel, it should be noted that some changes were made to the plot. However, these alterations only serve to enhance the TV adaptation and make it more accessible to modern audiences.

The pacing of the show is consistent, and the unfolding events keep the viewer engaged throughout. The character development is nuanced and in-depth, making each character's journey satisfying to watch. The themes of love, war, and society are explored thoroughly and make a lasting impression.

Overall, War & Peace is a masterful adaptation of a classic novel. It boasts impressive performances by its lead cast, stunning visuals, and an emotive and affecting story. It's a must-watch for fans of historical dramas and those who appreciate well-crafted storytelling.

War & Peace is a series that ran for 1 seasons (8 episodes) between January 14, 2016 and on A&E