The Last Kingdom

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Season 1
Season #: 5, 4, 3, 2, 1
User Score
8.3

Universal acclaim- based on 211 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 179 out of 211
  2. Mixed: 20 out of 211
  3. Negative: 12 out of 211
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  1. JennetP
    Oct 11, 2015
    10
    Making historical drama is like writing a sonnet: to do it well, you have to honor some traditions and break some. There’s no formula, though viewers tend to pile on when a show such as “Reign” or “The Bastard Executioner” treats history like a stripper’s bathrobe--to be worn for a moment then flung off. “The Last Kingdom” gets the balance right. Students of Anglo-Saxon literature, as IMaking historical drama is like writing a sonnet: to do it well, you have to honor some traditions and break some. There’s no formula, though viewers tend to pile on when a show such as “Reign” or “The Bastard Executioner” treats history like a stripper’s bathrobe--to be worn for a moment then flung off. “The Last Kingdom” gets the balance right. Students of Anglo-Saxon literature, as I was, will approve the general look of the production, though some specifics may perturb. And particular stories unfold within the large outlines of recorded history, raising issues contemporary to the 9th century and to our own.

    The series also balances ideas and action. For example, there’s spectacle in battle, in the large movement of troops and in particular moments of courage or brutality, but there’s also reflection about why battle is joined. Tone, too, is mixed and nicely balanced. In one scene, the Vikings feast to celebrate a victory while torturing and killing some of their captives. The way it’s presented, undifferentiated from the rest of the feast, mingles depravity and celebration--very cool in a show that’s essentially about dual loyalties.

    Writing, casting, and directing are all strong; if I could, I’d skip work tomorrow and binge-watch the whole series. The only thing I don’t like so much is the music, which tries too hard to amp up the tension when it’s already amped. Every time things get dramatic, we hear the same over-processed vocal wail, which I found annoying by the end of the first episode. Everything else, though, is beautifully balanced.    … Expand
  2. DWKeith47501
    Oct 11, 2015
    10
    I'm a pretty big fan of the Bernard Cornwell series of novels THE SAXON TALES that from the basis of this television series. The 9th novel just came out this month, Oct. 2015. I've read four novels so far and each one keeps topping the previous. I'm a pretty big reader, average over 100 novels a year. And Uthred is my current favorite on-going fictional series character. He's got some veryI'm a pretty big fan of the Bernard Cornwell series of novels THE SAXON TALES that from the basis of this television series. The 9th novel just came out this month, Oct. 2015. I've read four novels so far and each one keeps topping the previous. I'm a pretty big reader, average over 100 novels a year. And Uthred is my current favorite on-going fictional series character. He's got some very strong competition. Uhtred rocks. He's a Christian to Pagan convert and a complex figure. A hero. A warrior. Endlessly fascinating. Only seen the first episode but I think we're in good hands here and this will shape up to be one of the finest historical series on current TV. Cornwell's the best in the business. Now, the masses can learn why us readers eat him up.… Expand
  3. Sedwick
    Jan 15, 2016
    10
    I was so annoyed by the reviews I read here that I made my own account to pitch in to the general public, so that no misconceptions about this show are distributed to you guys.

    First of all, there is a reason why this show is so highly rated elsewhere: 5/5 Netflix, 92% Rotten Tomatoes, 8.6 IMDB. It is because The Last Kingdom is a fantastic show. Just like the recent Marco Polo, Netflix    I was so annoyed by the reviews I read here that I made my own account to pitch in to the general public, so that no misconceptions about this show are distributed to you guys.

    First of all, there is a reason why this show is so highly rated elsewhere: 5/5 Netflix, 92% Rotten Tomatoes, 8.6 IMDB. It is because The Last Kingdom is a fantastic show. Just like the recent Marco Polo, Netflix managed to sponsor a real winner in the historical fiction television field. The characters are both likable and follow-able. There is no shiny hero to save the day in this show, only gritty fighting and smart strategies. The consequences of both rash and patient actions can be seen throughout this masterpiece as faith meets faith on and off the battlefield. The romance is not cringey, and you genuinely feel the ups and downs of Uhtred's love life. There is no clear good or bad side to this story. You can see the reasons for both sides and frequently find yourself cheering and hating characters on both sides (I see you Young Odda).

    I don't know the time period enough to comment on this fully, but I will make a few points as to the feeling of the show in general. One of the many things The Last Kingdom did right was the numbers in the armies. Many Hollywood medieval productions show armies of thousands just chillings around as garrisons. Not in this show. You can see the lack of effective manpower clearly in the settings. In the first episode we see a king of Northumberland leaving a garrison of just 30 men to defend his keep, to which he deems "enough to hold the keep". The battles are between hundreds, not thousands. It really helps you see how much more vulnerable a country is to being completely wiped out by one battle when almost all the men in a kingdom are in the same battle. Another point I'd like to make is the equipment we see in the armies of both the Saxons and the Danes. The armies are not fully clad in full plate and equipped with steel long swords and shields which seems to be the norm in medieval cinematography. The armies are equiped with light mail, helmets, rough iron swords, and wooden shields. And that is the most equipped soldiers get. In fact, we can see many soldiers equipped with basic farm equipment in some of the scenes.

    So, what you can gather from this is that The Last Kingdom is a very well thought out show. Now, why does this show only get 7.9 here? It is because 75% of mixed and negative reviews are basing their opinions on its likeness to the books. I don't see this as a fair review and should not be posted on a review site. I don't particularly care whether this series followed the books word for word. What I care about is that I really enjoyed this show from beginning to end. So, before anyone looks at the average review being shown here and dismisses this show, please consider the fact that many didn't watch past the first episode and are not judging it for its actual enjoyment.    … Expand
  4. historymaking
    Mar 28, 2017
    10
    Great show, but a lot of you are attributing this to Netflix. It's a BBC show, Netflix just paid for American rights. Many of Netflix's best "originals" are from the UK.
  5. Al5421
    Oct 21, 2015
    10
    I've watched the first two episodes and the series so far is excellent. I think it is one of the most historically accurate (medieval) television shows out there ... more so than say 'The Vikings' etc.. I have only read one of Cornwell's novels (from the Sharpe series) so I am not familiar with this work ... but the filming, acting and story are excellent. I think out of all theI've watched the first two episodes and the series so far is excellent. I think it is one of the most historically accurate (medieval) television shows out there ... more so than say 'The Vikings' etc.. I have only read one of Cornwell's novels (from the Sharpe series) so I am not familiar with this work ... but the filming, acting and story are excellent. I think out of all the historical-fiction on television this is one of the best. I am giving 'The Last Kingdom' a 10.… Expand
  6. wanna
    Nov 2, 2015
    10
    Avid reader of Bernard Cornwell books and think this TV version is excellent. Very easy to follow and catches a great atmosphere.
    I understand this series covers the first 2 books - which will take some doing!

    Hope they continue the series and capture all 8 books (and counting)
  7. luni
    Feb 21, 2016
    10
    Now this is was unexpected, I somehow find myself preferring this to Vikings. History channel sorry, Netflix somehow did a better job at getting the raw epic element of Scandinavian beasts! In fact I am transported to a more focused and intimate version of game of thrones without the fantasy jump! I mean it's like Jon Snow was a bedtime story inspired by Uhtred! Though in my opinion UhtredNow this is was unexpected, I somehow find myself preferring this to Vikings. History channel sorry, Netflix somehow did a better job at getting the raw epic element of Scandinavian beasts! In fact I am transported to a more focused and intimate version of game of thrones without the fantasy jump! I mean it's like Jon Snow was a bedtime story inspired by Uhtred! Though in my opinion Uhtred does own a bigger set of balls! This show meshes all the perfect elements a war torn medival historically 'accurate' tv show needs. Great acting, great production, and great story line. Much recommended!… Expand
  8. multiwalrus
    May 18, 2016
    10
    An amazing show, the best that I can think of on TV. I had to stay up late nights to finish the whole season as quickly as I could. Strong acting, good humor, good sets, decent costumes and makeup, but when it comes together, a tremendous package that should not be missed. Even fans of the books will really like this one.

    A few words in the direction of comparison with Game of Thrones-    An amazing show, the best that I can think of on TV. I had to stay up late nights to finish the whole season as quickly as I could. Strong acting, good humor, good sets, decent costumes and makeup, but when it comes together, a tremendous package that should not be missed. Even fans of the books will really like this one.

    A few words in the direction of comparison with Game of Thrones- Love themes and violence are much more tastefully in this series, and the actors themselves are much more likeable and believable (excluding Sean Bean, who is my favorite actor).    … Expand
  9. Gothamguy
    Sep 11, 2016
    10
    The Last Kingdom is one of the most brilliant, gritty, moving, erotic, inspiring, and adventure-filled series I have ever seen in many years of tv. An astounding production with Cornwell's fantastic core story, an amazing believable cast, a powerful script, and beautiful direction.

    My wife and I were glued to it. PLEASE keep this series going forever!
  10. jbergado
    May 13, 2017
    10
    Wow. Awesome series. Best on TV right now! The second season was incredible. Do we really have to wait another 2 years for the 3rd season to air. I waited forever for season 2.!!!!
  11. cappy2895
    Dec 2, 2018
    10
    Amazing show is every way, acting, storyline, cinematography, music and costume! Cant get enough!
  12. ReaperxSpider
    Nov 22, 2018
    10
    i love this show wow its amazing the acting the time period. I couldn't wait for season 3 but was it totally worth the wait!!!
  13. Tacostand23
    Nov 21, 2018
    10
    This is just one of those shows that keeps getting better and better and really makes you love the characters and the story and the fact that its loosely based on real life makes it even better. This to me is just as good as Game of Thrones and better than Vikings. I never cared about ANYBODY on the Vikings show. It's a nice time period piece but thats it. The Last Kingdom makes eachThis is just one of those shows that keeps getting better and better and really makes you love the characters and the story and the fact that its loosely based on real life makes it even better. This to me is just as good as Game of Thrones and better than Vikings. I never cared about ANYBODY on the Vikings show. It's a nice time period piece but thats it. The Last Kingdom makes each individual person special. The actors are incredible with their range, and the battles and action enthralling.… Expand
  14. JoshTheKing23
    Nov 21, 2018
    10
    This is absolutely the best show I have ever watched in my entire life. I do love shows like Game Of Thrones and Vikings, but this tops both of those in my mind. I have just finished season 3 after waiting for a year and a half and I cannot stress enough how amazing this show is.
  15. Joaaaaa23
    Nov 22, 2018
    10
    Just finished watching all three seasons. Absolutely loved it! The historical accuracy is right on. Although it appears that Uhtred is (semi) fictional? Anyway, acting, costumes, cinematography is wonderful.
  16. Jiji19
    Dec 1, 2018
    10
    This show is superb and deserves high ratings e.g. 5/5 Netflix, 92% Rotten Tomatoes, 8.6 IMDB. It thrilling series to watch. If you like game of thrones then this is the show to watch!
  17. UhtredRagnarson
    Dec 15, 2018
    10
    One of my favorite shows of all time and for me, that is really saying something. This show has me entranced. I could not stop watching it. I love and hate the characters. I love the story, the fighting, the drama, the romance, the entire story is gripping and compelling. Anyone who loves historical shows or even just good old fashioned sword fights will really enjoy this show.

    If    One of my favorite shows of all time and for me, that is really saying something. This show has me entranced. I could not stop watching it. I love and hate the characters. I love the story, the fighting, the drama, the romance, the entire story is gripping and compelling. Anyone who loves historical shows or even just good old fashioned sword fights will really enjoy this show.

    If Netflix cancels this show, I will be extremely upset and may even cancel my sub. Right now, it is one of the only reasons I still have Netflix, that's how good it is. I don't write reviews for TV shows. Ever. So for me to take the time out to write a positive review for this show, is saying something. Love it. Absolutely love it. Well done to the cast and crew of this masterpiece and that is exactly what it is to me. A true masterpiece and work of art.    … Expand
  18. Destinyisall
    Dec 21, 2018
    10
    Having binge watched 9 out of 10 episodes on Netflix it then took a few days to watch the last episode knowing that once watched there would be no more for another year. I simply love this show. The characters are so engaging and mesmerising to watch. Never have I hated a man so much in Aethelwold that I yearned for his death through most of season 3, a credit to the actor that plays him.Having binge watched 9 out of 10 episodes on Netflix it then took a few days to watch the last episode knowing that once watched there would be no more for another year. I simply love this show. The characters are so engaging and mesmerising to watch. Never have I hated a man so much in Aethelwold that I yearned for his death through most of season 3, a credit to the actor that plays him. Uhtred is fantastic yet again and in this season he has to battle with so many different trials and emotions, I just wanted to reach into the TV and give him a big hug! I will definitely be watching this over and over again until the next season arrives.… Expand
  19. sgtfalcon
    Jan 12, 2019
    10
    Perhaps, one of the best shows on Netflix. Please Netflix, give us more seasons. Great writing (not historically accurate), great acting, great directing.
  20. Snoblitt04
    Aug 17, 2019
    10
    Omg. I absolutely love this. I don't think I would but glad when I am wrong.
  21. Neravarine
    Oct 11, 2015
    9
    Its a BBC tv show, so its good, they always do a good job when making stuff, it looks accurate enough and its realistic, unlike most of the tv shows now days. Its a medieval tv shows about Vikings and England, well I love Vikings and everything medieval but thats the only - for me, coz its to live on glory of tv show Vikings. Still it has a promise to be a gr8 tv show.
  22. aa3IRAQI
    Nov 10, 2015
    9
    I have not read any of the books this series is based on, but from what I see in this show it is nothing short of amazing. To be perfectly honest the only people that are complaining about this series is people who read the book and are coming in with grand expectations. I think this show far superior to Vikings and gives Game of Thrones a run for its money in terms of intrigue andI have not read any of the books this series is based on, but from what I see in this show it is nothing short of amazing. To be perfectly honest the only people that are complaining about this series is people who read the book and are coming in with grand expectations. I think this show far superior to Vikings and gives Game of Thrones a run for its money in terms of intrigue and dialogue.

    This show took a while before it piqued my interest. It has all the makings to take this show to an epic show like Spartacus. It has perfect pacing and never really has a dull moment. The pilot episode is a little slow and is hard to understand that's why it gets a 9/10.

    Acting: 9/10
    Scenery: 10/10
    Story:10/10
    Soundtrack: 9/10    … Expand
  23. Hrothgar43
    Dec 4, 2015
    9
    Well done historical action series. Captures the spirit of the Bernard Cornwell books, as well as the temper of the times, which were harsh. Particularly good at conveying the other-worldly determination of Alfred to create a Saxon England.
  24. sternblend
    Nov 23, 2015
    9
    Sick of people coming into these shows thinking about Vikings etc.
    Let the show stand on its own feet. This is actually quite brilliant and the lead character is very easy to watch.
    It isn't Vikings but quality and story line is very good and captivating.
  25. lumby
    Jun 28, 2016
    9
    I found the first episode to be a little disjointed but with each subsequent episodes things kept getting better and better. I loved it that the sets showed the real filth that these people lived in. Glad to see there will be a season 2, I can't wait.
  26. doubledown-hust
    Aug 10, 2016
    9
    An amazing epic show. I love Vikings on the History channel, The Last Kingdom is a great companion show with Vikings. The fight scenes are awesome is if small in scales the actors bring every shot to life. The filming was also done brilliant! Some amazing shots at angles i haven't seen before. The Last Kingdom has heart and if you like Vikings you will like this show.
  27. sanchopancho
    May 18, 2017
    9
    I'd argue that I enjoy this show more than I do Game Of Thrones. Sure the production value is smaller, but I can easily get past that because its story is more focused. The intrigue is neatly strung together and the characters are very well developed. It's a guilty pleasure for sure and I can't wait for season 3.
  28. RogueRiver
    Feb 15, 2018
    9
    From beginning to end, the first season held me captive. Only just started season 2. So far, just as good. The whole series has sparked in me an interest in the actual historical period.

    Comparisons made to the Game of Thrones series that I have read that are floating around the internet are absurd. Comparing historical drama with fantasy fiction is comparing apples to oranges.
  29. Jackson10
    Mar 23, 2018
    9
    Season 1 was pretty darn good. My only complaint would be that having only 8 episodes rushes the story. They should either cover less material or add episodes, which would be my preference, but we know how the BBC hates to spend money. I'm not sure why reviewers are comparing this series with Game of Thrones. They are two different genres and Game of Thrones has 3 times the budget of TheSeason 1 was pretty darn good. My only complaint would be that having only 8 episodes rushes the story. They should either cover less material or add episodes, which would be my preference, but we know how the BBC hates to spend money. I'm not sure why reviewers are comparing this series with Game of Thrones. They are two different genres and Game of Thrones has 3 times the budget of The Last Kingdom. I'm also surprised that people think the TV series should follow the books more closely. As the author of the books, Bernard Cornwell, basically stated they don't write novels and he doesn't write TV scripts. He is happy with the series and has commended them for doing a great job. I've read all 10 books and yes, the series deviates from them, but so what? The novels are a good read and the TV series is great entertainment. Season 2 has already aired and I would rate it a 9.5. The TV series is getting better as it rolls along and I'm looking forward to season 3, which will have 10 episodes. It's about time they give the story the time it needs to be told well.… Expand
  30. Berik
    Feb 22, 2019
    9
    Excellent show with plenty of enjoyable stories, characters and history. If you like Vikings, you'll like this show. Characters are well build, and the action is gruesome. It does sometimes suffer from a 'One man army complex' but is still fun to watch
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Awards & Rankings

40
#40 Best TV Season of 2015
22
#22 Most Discussed TV Season of 2015
18
#18 Most Shared TV Season of 2015

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
78

Generally favorable reviews - based on 15 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 15 out of 15
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 15
  3. Negative: 0 out of 15
  1. The New York Times
    Reviewed by: Neil Genzlinger
    Oct 9, 2015
    70
    The series has a sprawling cast and high production values, yet it starts off rather generically--bearded men playing with swords, battling over territory.... Hang around until Episode 3, though, and substantive themes begin to take shape that give this series a distinctive personality.
    Read full review
  2. Wall Street Journal
    Reviewed by: Nancy DeWolf Smith
    Oct 9, 2015
    80
    The truthful background of this high-stakes history makes it thrilling on a deeper level. Along with the battle scenes and other entertainments, the series reflects many challenges of today’s world.
    Read full review
  3. Uncle Barky
    Reviewed by: Ed Bark
    Oct 9, 2015
    91
    It all meshes together in enthralling fashion with a tale that’s understandable and a setting that’s tailor made for picturesque vistas. Last Kingdom livens up Saturday nights with Emmy caliber storytelling and oft-sumptuous production values.
    Read full review
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