Mayflies

There's a critic review which calls this drama "flat" but I can't help wondering if he was watching the same programme as me.

This is a beautiful, absorbing and deeply moving story. The writing is superb but is eclipsed by some of the best performances you are ever likely to see. The three central characters draw you in and make you FEEL this story, not just watch it.

The subject matter is challenging but it never felt exploitative. It doesn't so much focus upon Tully's illness as on the relationships with family (and more importantly) friends. The dialogue is natural, the emotions raw and believable and the effect upon the viewer deep and touching.

The end of the story was handled with a degree of sensitivity and love that surprised me and showed a depth of understanding from the writers and director that left a warm glow in my heart and tears coursing down my cheeks. It could easily have been done coldly, clinically and carelessly, but it was not the case.

It wasn't always easy to watch but I am so glad that I chose to do so. Clear a couple of hours, grab yourself a box of tissues and sit down to watch this - I don't think that you will regret it.

I had heard of this story but didn't truly appreciate it until I saw this series. I had a lump in my throat throughout and the intensity of emotions suprised me. The acting is unbelievably good and Martin and Tony showcase their friendship and connection to each other in a subtle but powerful way. I did break down at some point and had to pause while I did ... not something I do very often... but the flashbacks into their youth equally made me smile and it was impossible to not feel connected to them and relate to the kind of friendship they had. I can only wish everyone gets to experience relationships as deep as theirs in their lifetime - make you appreciate what is important in life and inspures you to cut out the noise. Just watch it - its incredible!

This is story telling perfection.

I think it might be the most moving drama I have ever watched.

It was so unassuming, but so perfectly executed.

I fell in love with Tony Curran's Tully immediatley. And Ashley Jensen further solidifies herself as British acting royalty. She is so good, I do not know how to describe her.

Martin Compston is reliably brilliant also.

But mostly you will just love Tully.

Mayflies is nostalgia, friendship, love, pride and death (in short, humanity) all in one sorry story that rings too true.

I cannot wait to read the book (I know I probably would have more fault to pick if Id read it first so Im glad to do it this way round.)

The ending is brilliantly sad and refreshing because it is not the norm for a TV drama.

I cannot recommend it enough, that is... if you need a good cry and to clear out the emotional cobwebs. Amazing work.

This drama shows us life really is so short. The present day story was very emotional and raw however it was the flashbacks to their young lives which got me the most it shows how fragile and short life is and how we have to make the most of it. It shows how we take our friends and memories through all our life's ups and downs and how memories always stay strong in our minds. A tough watch but worth it a very strong cast and script. The decisions which need to be made are so hard for all involved and life impacting for all of them. Martin Compston is just such a wonderful versatile actor. Get the tissues ready for this one.

Still wiping the tears away, yet I want to celebrate the love, loyalty and friendship that went before. A cast that I haven't always rated in the past individually have a chemistry I've rarely seen.

I'd compare this to an Ian Banks novel, yet no one gets murdered.

Martin Compston is far from his wooden self in Line of Duty, Ashley Jensen is a force of nature, something not harnessed by Ricky Gervais in any of their colab's. His fault for always wanting to be the centre of the screen. And Tony Curran? Balls out, no holds barred as the rebel that refused to say 'Okay, that'll do'. He does it his way.

Andrew O'Hagan has written a truly beautiful thing.

Peter Mackie Burns brings it to us in a very unsentimental yet gut wrenching way. It's a celebration of what was. No regrets.