The series was originally released in 2022 (Image: Hulu)
A series that blew audiences away when it was first released has just been added to Netflix. The streaming service, which is the most popular in the UK, regularly adds beloved movies and series to its library for British subscribers to enjoy. While there are hit shows that captivate millions around the world, such as Bridgerton, Stranger Things and Squid Game, others sometimes fall under the radar, especially when they are added to Netflix years after they were released.
However, that likely will not be the case for one of the streaming giant’s latest additions, which was praised by both critics and audiences upon its release in 2022. The miniseries stars some familiar faces as well as up-and-coming actors, and is based on a best-selling book of the same name. If you enjoyed shows like Normal People during the pandemic, this is definitely one to add to your watchlist once.
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Conversations with Friends is based on the 2017 novel of the same name by Irish author Sally Rooney, who has also written hits such as Normal People and Intermezzo. While the series didn’t reach the massive success that Normal People did back in 2020, it was still loved by many who watched it.
The series, which consists of just 12 episodes, was added to Netflix on February 22, stars familiar faces like Allison Oliver and Joe Alwyn.
It follows former lovers Frances and Bobbi, who are students at a university in Dublin. They meet a married couple, and their lives and loves become intertwined and complicated. The story explores heartbreak, forbidden desire and changing, modern ideas of love, all of which keep viewers pretty gripped throughout.
Online reviews show that some people adore this show, while others were less than impressed. Currently, Conversations with Friends has a Rotten Tomatoes score of just 61%, although the audience score is slightly higher at 63%.
One IMDb user said they felt like they were “immersed” in their favourite book when watching the series. They said: “I have seen reviews saying Frances and Nick are awkwardly portrayed and they have no chemistry. This makes me wonder if these individuals have read the book?
“Frances and Nick ARE awkward so the fact that this has come across on the screen is incredibly well done. I don’t think they come across as having no chemistry. I mean, those steamy scenes don’t come across badly at all.”
Another, writing on Rotten Tomatoes, shared: “This captures true, mature and evolved love so beautifully well. The acting is incredible and raw, if slightly uncomfortable. Only because it feels like we are intruding on a private moment, like we shouldn’t be seeing their pain. It’s the sort of feeling you get when you feel their pain because it was once yours too. An understanding.”
Meanwhile, people have high praise for the original source material. Of the book, one online review by Topsey Life shared: “A book you may not expect but certainly one you need. Conversations with Friends is a modern masterpiece of daily life: the pain, the love and the conflicts with yourself and others.”
However, not everyone was blown away by the series, and some said it does not compare to other shows based on Rooney’s work. One IMDb review called it “incomparable to Normal People”.
Another said: “Almost unbearable, the wooden, emotionless stupor from Frances and Nick. I understand different relationships exist, but that’s not to say they translate to quality, let alone immersive viewing. No one is happy from now on if they’ve persevered through this drivel.”
The show still achieved success, though, and it is expected to gain a slew of new fans now that it is available on Netflix.
It was added to the streaming giant in the UK along with other notable titles last week, including Abigail (2024), Bandit (2022) and Cruel Intentions (1999).
