'Masterpiece' period drama hailed 'best ever made' is streaming now on Netflix

A western period drama streaming on Netflix has been hailed by viewers who have admitted binge watching it. A prequel to the massive hit show Yellowstone, 1883 first aired in 2021 on Paramount+ and has now become available to stream for the first time on Netflix in the UK bringing it to an even wider audience. It has proved a huge success since it's launch and with an impressive Rotten Tomatoes rating of 89% it is 6% ahead of Yellowstone on the world famous critique site.

Created by Taylor Sheridan, who is the brainchild behind the entire Yellowstone universe, the ten episode series tells the backstory of the Dutton family as they make the perilous journey from Tennessee across the American frontier in search of a better life after the civil war. They eventually settle in Montana and establish what will later become the iconic Dutton family ranch which features in Yellowstone.

It boasts an all star cast including Sam Elliott, Tim McGraw, Faith Hill, Isabel May and James Landry Hébert. In a huge coup for the show they even managed to get double Oscar winner Tom Hanks to guest star in a cameo role. He appeared as a favour to his friend Tim McGraw, playing General George Meade, a real-life Union general from the Civil War. Appearing in a flashback scene in the second episode, he consoled Tim's character, James Dutton.

It was such a success it also spawned the follow up 1923, which starred Harrison Ford and Helen Mirren as the Dutton's story continued. However, this also means there will be no further episodes since 1923 is the official follow up.

It has proved a huge hit with viewers who have left glowing reviewing on Google. "On the one hand it is a masterpiece of tv drama and storytelling...On the other its a painful cliched bore (but) sticking with the former first, its mostly a joy to watch...A show that starts so strong but loses its way in the middle and then recovers brilliant to give you a gut wrenching finish. Addictive, glorious, beautiful TV drama," one penned.

"Outstanding series in all respects," a second raved. "My wife, who does not like series with more than several episodes, was so hooked we made it a point to watch an episode every night and treat it as after-dinner dessert."

A third gushed: "A++++ Even as a stand-alone, without any Yellowstone knowledge, it's an incredible ride...This limited series is an absolute home run that can stand on its own in or outside of the Yellowstone universe. Highly recommended."

"A perfectly written and cast story full of courage perseverance fight and heartbreak. The acting was amazing and the cinematography breathtaking. It gives so much more insight into the Dutton heritage and why Yellowstone means so much and where their pride, fight, and passion came from. I binge watched this the first viewing and have watched it three more times since. A huge thank you to Taylor Sheridan and the cast and crew!" a fourth penned.

"Powerful story and superb acting by all characters. Best mini series I have seen in years and I love Yellowstone. This is worth binge watching. Be prepared to be very moved by the storyline. Absolutely fantastic," a fifth enthused.

Meanwhile a sixth described it as the "best" writing: "Fantastic in every way....Some of the best writing and performances you'll ever see. This 10 hour movie served up in (10) 1-hour shows is worth your time and attention."