The LuminariesThe 19th-century tale of love, murder and revenge as men and women travel across the world to make their fortunes on the wild West Coast of New Zealand's South Island.
WriterEleanor Catton
Fingerprint
May 17, 2020
In 1865 two young adventurers, Anna Wetherell and Emery Staines, meet on the last day of their voyage to New Zealand.
The Place You Return
May 24, 2020
Lydia and Carver hatch a plan to free Carver from his convict past. Emery sets sail to the goldfields in search of Anna. In 1866, the results of Crosbie Wells' autopsy are revealed.
Leverage
May 31, 2020
Anna's suspicions are aroused as Lydia prepares to host a party. Lauderback is blackmailed. In 1866, Crosbie Wells is buried.
The Other Half
Jun 7, 2020
In 1865, Emery and Anna have a disastrous reunion in Hokitika, Emery learns about Carver's past and Quee makes a rewarding discovery. In 1866, hope is fading for Anna - in desperation she takes matters into her own hands.
Paradox
Jun 14, 2020
A stranger arrives in town and interrupts a secret council between the men of Hokitika. The events from the night Crosbie Wells died are pieced together.
The Old Moon in the Young Moon's Arms
Jun 21, 2020
Anna is tried for murder. New evidence reveals a connection between Lauderback and Crosbie Wells.
sykobanana
@sykobanana
Deadwood in New Zealand mixed with Taboo. Set in colonial New Zealand during the discovery of gold, we follow 2 people, newly arrived in New Zealand, who have set out to try to make their fortunes. Hewson and Patel are great as the leads, as is the always reliable Csokas (highly under-rated as an actor IMO). But it is the sumptuous Eva Green who steals every scene she is in, especially in the seance. The plot feels a bit too convoluted, especially with the non-linear storyline and at times I was lost as to which timeline I was in. But it was soon figured out and it paid off well in the final episode. The set designs and costumes are fantastic and helps immerse you into the period. This is a fascinating time and I loved watching this period of NZ history on film - from the segregation of races and opium use, to how the prospecting occurred, this series represents it truly well. This is a very enjoyable way to spend 6 hours - Watch it if you would like to see a different part of history, or if you like spending time with the always engrossing Eva Green.
