
The Moonstone
Where to Watch The Moonstone
Watch The Moonstone Season 1 Episode 5 Now
Watch The Moonstone Season 1 Episode 4 Now
Watch The Moonstone Season 1 Episode 3 Now
Watch The Moonstone Season 1 Episode 2 Now
Watch The Moonstone Season 1 Episode 1 Now

The Moonstone, a captivating British series from 2016 found on BritBox, offers a multilayered and rich reworking of the beloved mystery novel by Wilkie Collins, considered by many as the very first detective novel in the English language. The drama is set within the grandeur and turmoil of Victorian England while featuring a distinctive cast of distinct, intriguing characters. This adaptation has modernized the format of the original material for the 21st century, while maintaining the suspense, twists, and charm that helped establish the rules of the genre.
The main plot revolves around the Moonstone, an incredibly valuable and beautiful gem stolen from an Indian temple. This precious yellow diamond ends up in the hands of the undeserving Colonel Herncastle, who bestows it to his niece, Rachel, under the veil of her birthday. However, mysteriously or not, the diamond disappears on the very night it was given. Subsequently, the compelling mystery of whodunnit ensues, pulling together a multitude of fascinating characters, each under suspicion.
The series is marked by a string of narrators, each unreliable in their own right, a unique storytelling technique reminiscent of the original novel. Using individual episodes to present each narrator's perspective, each one displays how they perceive events surrounding the gem's disappearance. The narrative utilizes humor, melancholy, and suspense, and each narrator's account adds another layer of connection and intrigue for the viewer. On the surface, The Moonstone is a thrilling mystery, but beneath that, it becomes a critique and exploration of the Victorian Era, from its social norms to its colonial past.
One of The Moonstone's winning cards is its ensemble cast. The story centers around the quiet and thoughtful Franklin Blake, played convincingly by Joshua Silver, who is caught in a romantic entanglement with Rachel, played by the equally talented actress, Teresa Palmer. Highlighting their chemistry and the depth of their characters, the series creates a genuine emotional depth.
The series is also punctuated by moments of comedic relief, primarily courtesy of Sergeant Cuff, the affable and gifted detective whose love for roses almost rivals his enthusiasm for solving crimes. Played by John Thomson, Cuff's character breaks down the 'mysterious and silent detective' stereotype with his amiable, humorous, and talkative nature.
The setting plays a vital role in adding to the visual spectacle and atmosphere of The Moonstone. The grand country house in Yorkshire, which serves as the primary location, is depicted with a quiet elegance that suits the alluringly tense narrative. The atmosphere is greatly enhanced by the show's cinematography, which captures the aesthetics of the Victorian era.
The Moonstone also grapples with the social norms and judgments of the Victorian era. The series explores the sharp and unyielding class distinctions, the curtailing of women's rights and the societal expectation and confinement put on them. And it does not shy away from exploring Britain's troubling colonial past. The Moonstone embodies, to some extent, the guilt of the colonizers, metaphorically carrying the blood of those who were killed to acquire it.
The music used in the series adds another layer of engagement, creating an ambiance that's as mysterious and engaging as the story itself. From the haunting opening theme to the atmospheric background scores accompanying the scenes, the music serves to enhance the viewing experience manifold.
Adapted by Rachel Flowerday and Sasha Hails, The Moonstone presents a balance of high-stakes intrigue and introspective character study. The pacing is deliberate but never slow, allowing the series to unravel each piece of the puzzle step by step, incrementally leading to its grand reveal. Furthermore, the five-part series is concise, providing just enough time to develop the story and allows the viewers to connect with the characters without dragging on unnecessarily.
In conclusion, The Moonstone is a layered portrayal of mystery, drama, and love set against the backdrop of Victorian England. With its memorable characters, smart storyline, and touching upon important social themes, it ensures an engaging watch for fans of detective narratives and period dramas alike. Whether you're delving into Collins' world for the first time or revisiting it, this adaptation offers an enjoyable, gripping mystery that keeps you on the edge of your seat till its conclusion.
The Moonstone is a series categorized as a new series. Spanning 1 seasons with a total of 5 episodes, the show debuted on 2016. The series has earned a moderate reviews from both critics and viewers. The IMDb score stands at 6.1.
How to Watch The Moonstone
How can I watch The Moonstone online? The Moonstone is available on BritBox with seasons and full episodes. You can also watch The Moonstone on demand at Amazon Prime, Apple TV, Amazon, Google Play, Vudu online.