The miniseries One Day is an adaptation of David Nicholls’ novel of the same name. The romantic drama series, largely set in 1980s and 1990s London, is addictive from start to finish. Netflix delivers a successful adaptation of the book, something the 2011 film of the same name failed to achieve.
Emma Morley and Dexter Mayhew meet in 1988 at their graduation party at Edinburgh college. Dexter, the most popular boy in school, Emma, a quiet student. After having talked with each other an entire night, they bid each other farewell. Unaware of the significant roles they will play in each other’s lives.
July 15th plays a role in Emma and Dexter’s lives year after year. The series follows them on this exact date as their lives continue to evolve. This storytelling method is directly taken from the book where each chapter took place on a July 15th. Less suitable for the feature film starring Anne Hathaway and Jim Sturgess, perfect for a miniseries.
With David Nicholls himself in charge as executive producer and creator and screenwriter Nicole Taylor, this second attempt is more than successful. Each of the 14 episodes takes its time to tell a chapter. Yet as a viewer, you swiftly go through the series. Time is taken to tell the story, but it’s not needlessly drawn out. With episodes around 30 minutes long, the length of the episodes is just right. Once you start watching One Day, you want to know how it ends. Particularly whether there’s more than friendship in store for Emma and Dex.
Convincing Cast
However, it’s lead actors Ambika Mod (This Is Going to Hurt) and Leo Woodall (The White Lotus) who carry the series. Their chemistry splashes off the small screen as they convincingly bring the typically British dialogues to life. Especially Mod who, with her flat accent and dry humor, portrays a distant Emma. But Woodall too convinces as the privileged Dexter with a superficial worldview.
Supporting roles are being played by Eleanor Tomlinson (Poldark), Essie Davis (Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries), and Tim McInnerny (Notting Hill). And they too deliver as was written. With 1990s London in the background, One Day already has a delightful setting. And the cherry on top is the surprisingly enjoyable soundtrack. With songs from the era in which the story is set. Everything about Netflix’s adaptation of One Day is spot on. A recommendation for anyone who can enjoy romantic drama.
One Day (2024) – Netflix
After spending graduation night together, Emma and Dexter go their separate ways — but their lives remain intertwined. Based on David Nicholls’ novel.
Cast: Ambika Mod, Leo Woodall, Eleanor Tomlinson, Essie Davis, e.a.
Executive producer: David Nicholls
Creator: Nicole Taylor
