The Levelling, a poignant drama set on a Somerset dairy farm, is coming soon to BBC iPlayer, available to stream for free starting Tuesday, June 10.
This gripping 2017 film has earned widespread critical acclaim, boasting an impressive 94% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Directed by Hope Dickson Leach, it stars Ellie Kendrick, known for her role as Meera Reed in HBO’s Game of Thrones, as Clover, the troubled protagonist returning home after a family tragedy.
The story unfolds in the aftermath of the devastating 2014 Somerset floods, focusing on Clover’s return to the family farm following the death of her younger brother. Rotten Tomatoes aptly sums up the film’s narrative as a deeply emotional exploration of grief and reconciliation.
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Critics have praised The Levelling for its intense, authentic portrayal of rural life. Mark Kermode of The Observer described it as “a song of love,” while Empire’s David Parkinson highlighted its unflinching realism and strong sense of place. The Times’ Kate Muir lauded Kendrick’s “magnetic” performance filled with raw emotion. The Guardian’s Peter Bradshaw characterized it as “a superbly shot and piercingly acted realist tragedy,” and the Financial Times’ Nigel Andrews called it “a remarkable and confident debut” that blends pain with haunting, dystopian imagery.
Despite the near-universal critical appeal, audiences have given it a more mixed reception, with a modest 58% rating. Many viewers acknowledge its bleak tone, describing it as “very bleak” and “quite a grim watch,” though performances and emotional depth are widely praised. Some viewers find the film’s subtle storytelling powerful and resonant, remarking on its nuanced depiction of family estrangement and emotional complexity.
Whether you appreciate its low-key intensity or challenging themes, The Levelling stands out as a remarkable debut. It is ready to captivate new audiences on BBC iPlayer from June 10.