This breathtaking drama follows the devastating events that took place in 1986, Russia, after the fatal toxic explosion of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant. Told brilliantly through a high intensity 5 part series, Chernobyl tells the story of the heartbreaking aftermath of the explosion.

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HBO are notorious for the success of their mini-series’, with the likes of Band of Brothers and Sharp Objects, Chernobyl does not fail to follow suit being the highest rated TV series of all time* pushing Game of Thrones and Breaking Bad out of it’s path.

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The real beauty of this series is the calmness, it totally lures you in by creating a sense of almost tranquility, despite the obvious horror of the situation. We know the stakes are high when we see one of the main characters committing suicide in the opening scene, and this is not the most shocking thing we see as the series goes on.

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We see the tragic event take place through the eyes of many different people to give a clear image of the realness of the situation. We follow a wife who’s fireman husband is killed at the very start when he goes to the ambiguous scene to help with the initial destruction. We see a young lad who is ordered to join the forces to help clear the surrounding area and is appointed the job to kill any living pets/animals to avoid the spread of infection which they would all inevitably carry. We’re introduced briefly to an elderly woman who refuses to evacuate her house, after having survived the war, she doesn’t think it necessary. It’s really powerful to see all these people having to deal with this incident that has never happened before and seeing how it effected real life.

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The series is jam packed with shocking moments, particularly from the men in power, it’s breathtaking to think that what you’re watching truly did happen.

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After reading comments from people who grew up in the area and know about the history of Chernobyl, it seems that HBO didn’t fail to keep the drama as true to fact as possible.

The decision to have the performances in English is powerful and cleverly done, with use of the Russian language where necessary, without distracting the viewers.

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The tension of the final episode is so powerful you find yourself questioning what’s going to happen in the end regardless of it being blatant, having already seen the concluding scene in the first episode.

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Emily Watsons powerful portrayal of scientist and theorist, Ulana Khomyuk, is outstanding. Teamed up with Jared Harris’ performance as Valery Legasov is a match made in casting heaven.

Packed full of incredible performances from Watson and Harris to Jessie Buckley and Stellan Skarsgard, Chernobyl is one of the most powerful tv series we’ve ever witnessed and a triumphant achievement.

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“We live in a country where babies have to die to save their mothers. To hell with your lie.” – Emily Watson as ‘Ulana Khomyuk’