'Phenomenal' series set in Dublin based on 'perfect' book is hitting Netflix

An iconic BBC drama adapted from a bestselling novel that readers have described as "perfect" is arriving on Netflix by the end of this week.

Boasting a stellar cast of well-known faces from the UK, Ireland and the USA, the eight-episode drama originally premiered in 2022.

Adapted from Sally Rooney's debut novel, Conversations With Friends never quite achieved the cultural phenomenon status of its BBC predecessor, Normal People, which captivated audiences during the Covid-19 lockdown of 2020.

Nevertheless, despite garnering mixed reviews upon release, numerous fans believe the drama exploring two young best friends who become involved with an older, successful couple has endured and merits viewing.

Alison Oliver (Wuthering Heights) and Sasha Lane (Loki) portray Frances and Bobbi, alongside Sex Education's Jemima Kirke and Hamnet's Joe Alwyn as Melissa and Nick, whose existences become progressively intertwined, reports the Express.

One five-star review on Goodreads described the novel as "stupidly good" and "perfect from start to finish".

Whilst another reader concurred, labelling the novel a "perfect representation of life: it's messy and unpredictable, and we are all just trying to find our footing".

The live-action adaptation for BBC Three and Hulu is praised as a faithful portrayal of the novel's events and themes, meaning Normal People enthusiasts are definitely in for a treat should they choose to explore or revisit the series several years after its debut. It arrives on Netflix in full this Sunday, 22nd February.

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One viewer commented when it first aired: "Conversations With Friends the TV adaptation is a phenomenal success and I loved every moment of it. I may even re-watch."

Meanwhile, an IMDb user described the series as "perfect", hinting the television adaptation might surpass the novel: "These are the kind of shows I love that don't come around often. The actors were so interesting, different, and artistic. The backdrop of Dublin with its slightly melancholic and gritty feel captured me straight away.

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"I read the book some while ago, which I really enjoyed but the storyline didn't overly stay with me. The show brought the story to life with its intelligent conversation, character flaws and nuances.

"I found the filming to be sparing and gorgeous- it created this nostalgic feeling. Such a simple storyline with no in-your-face twist or shocking reveal. It's more human, subtle and visceral. I haven't watched Normal People yet but this has made me look forward to watching it."

Conversations With Friends is available to stream on Netflix from Sunday, 22nd February.