The North Water (2021)

Introduction to The North Water (2021): A Dark Journey Across the Ocean
The North Water (2021) is a psychological, adventure, and drama miniseries adapted from the novel of the same name by Ian McGuire. Set against the brutal backdrop of the 19th-century whaling industry, the series delivers a haunting tale of survival, human morality, and the darkest corners of the soul. Premiering on BBC Two and AMC+, The North Water has captivated audiences with its gripping narrative, stellar performances, and visually stunning yet chilling cinematography.
Basic Information
- Genre: Psychological, Adventure, Drama
- Director: Andrew Haigh
- Main Cast: Jack O’Connell (Patrick Sumner), Colin Farrell (Henry Drax), Stephen Graham (Captain Brownlee)
- Episodes: 5 episodes
- Runtime: Approximately 60 minutes per episode
- Release Year: 2021
- Platform: BBC Two, AMC+
- Based on: The North Water by Ian McGuire
Plot
Set in the 1850s, The North Water follows Patrick Sumner (Jack O’Connell), a former army surgeon haunted by his past. Seeking escape from his demons, Sumner joins a whaling expedition to the Arctic aboard the ship Volunteer. However, he soon discovers that this journey is far from an ordinary voyage. Onboard, he encounters Henry Drax (Colin Farrell), a brutal and ruthless harpooner, and faces the sinister schemes of Captain Brownlee (Stephen Graham) and other crew members.

In the confined and harsh environment of the ship amidst the icy ocean, Sumner must fight to survive—not only against nature but also against men willing to sacrifice their humanity for personal gain. The series is a profound exploration of human nature, greed, and the fragile line between good and evil.
Highlights
1. Exceptional Performances

- Jack O’Connell as Patrick Sumner delivers an emotionally charged performance, portraying a man torn between his past and present. He masterfully captures the complexity of a war-scarred doctor who is both intelligent and vulnerable.
- Colin Farrell as Henry Drax is terrifyingly captivating. Drax embodies primal cruelty, and Farrell’s performance is both mesmerizing and chilling, keeping viewers on edge.
- Stephen Graham, as always, shines as Captain Brownlee, a cunning and ambitious man with ulterior motives.
2. Setting and Cinematography

Filmed in the Arctic’s icy landscapes, the series boasts breathtaking yet stark visuals that reflect the harsh environment and the characters’ emotional states. Director Andrew Haigh uses dim lighting and cold tones to create a tense, foreboding atmosphere.
3. Profound Themes
The North Water is more than an adventure story; it’s a study of human nature. The series raises challenging questions about morality, survival, and how people confront their inner darkness. It explores themes of greed, violence, and moral decay in an isolated society.
4. Music and Technical Craft

The haunting score by Tim Hecker is a standout, enhancing the series’ eerie and emotional tone. The cinematography and editing are meticulously crafted, immersing viewers in the claustrophobic and dangerous life aboard the ship.
Target Audience
The series is ideal for those who enjoy:
- Deeply psychological stories that explore complex characters.
- Historical adventure films with unique settings.
- Tales of survival in extreme conditions.
- Powerful performances and uncompromising narratives.
Note: The series contains graphic violence and heavy themes, making it unsuitable for sensitive viewers or those under 18.
Reception

The North Water has earned widespread critical acclaim for its compelling story, outstanding performances, and immersive storytelling. It doesn’t shy away from depicting human brutality while offering moments of compassion and redemption.
- IMDb: 7.6/10
- Rotten Tomatoes: 92% (from critics)
- Metacritic: 82/100
Why Watch?

If you enjoyed films like The Revenant or The Terror, The North Water will captivate you with its intense narrative, stunning visuals, and unforgettable performances. It’s a series that entertains while prompting reflection on the limits of humanity in the face of extreme adversity.
Prepare yourself for a perilous journey where the ocean is not just a test of survival but a mirror reflecting the deepest shadows of the human soul!