Why ‘Wicked Little Letters’ is the New Netflix UK Obsession

The period drama feature film Wicked Little Letters, headlined by Olivia Colman and Jessie Buckley, hit cinemas earlier this year. Now, just months later, it’s due to hit Netflix in the United Kingdom as part of a StudioCanal first-window deal. Directed by Thea Sharrock and written by Jonny Sweet, the movie is set in 1920s Britain during the Suffragette movement. Based on a true story, it depicts two warring neighbors, Edith Swan (played by Colman) and Rose Gooding (played by Buckley), which is set off by Swan and her neighbors beginning to receive profanity-laden letters that set off a string of events and an intense investigation.

An All-Star Cast

Anjana Vasan (who recently appeared in Black Mirror season 5) co-stars alongside Joanna Scanlan, Gemma Jones, Malachi Kirby, Lolly Adefope, Eileen Atkins, and Timothy Spall. Certified Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes, the movie picked up good reviews across the board from British critics and those elsewhere. Tom Shone for the Sunday Times wrote in their review, “There’s nothing like two of the finest actresses of their generation waging war against each other.”

Wicked Little Letters Arrives on Netflix in the UK in July 2024

The movie comes to Netflix via a first window deal Netflix in the United Kingdom now has with StudioCanal, as promoted by Larry Tanz at a production hub tour in Tres Cantos, Spain. Similar deals with other local distributors exist across Europe. The deal, similar to that of Sony in the US, means that the movie will come to Netflix UK for a fixed period exclusively, and we’ve now learned that Wicked Little Letters will begin streaming from July 26th, 2024. For more on what’s coming to Netflix in the United Kingdom throughout July 2024 – keep it locked here on What’s on Netflix.

Will Wicked Little Letters Arrive on Netflix in the United States?

While distributed by StudioCanal in the UK, Sony Pictures Classic picked up the US rights. As you may know, Netflix has had an output deal with Sony Pictures for the entire theatrical slate (and some of their subsidiary titles) since 2022. Over the past couple of years, we’ve seen numerous Sony Pictures Classics (SPC for short) titles coming to Netflix in the US, including Shortcomings, The Miracle Club, Freud’s Last Session, Living, and most recently, the Polish animated movie, The Peasants.

They don’t arrive similarly to the theatrical releases, which come roughly 120 days after their initial debut, but rather months or sometimes up to a year after their release. We’ll keep you posted here and via our Coming Soon on Netflix section when we learn more.

Cast and Characters

Olivia Colman as Edith Swan

Olivia Colman brings her unparalleled acting prowess to the role of Edith Swan, a character that promises to be both complex and compelling.

Jessie Buckley as Rose Gooding

Jessie Buckley stars as Rose Gooding, delivering a performance that has been lauded as one of the highlights of the film.

Supporting Cast

• Anjana Vasan as a pivotal character, adding depth to the narrative.
• Joanna Scanlan brings her unique charm to the ensemble.
• Gemma Jones and Malachi Kirby deliver standout performances.
• Lolly Adefope, Eileen Atkins, and Timothy Spall round out the stellar cast, each contributing significantly to the film’s success.

Plot Summary

Setting the Scene: 1920s Britain

Set against the backdrop of the Suffragette movement, the film captures the essence of a time fraught with social and political upheaval. The historical context adds richness to the narrative, making it more than just a drama but a glimpse into a pivotal era.

The Mysterious Letters

The story kicks off with Edith Swan and her neighbors receiving shocking, profanity-laden letters. These letters set off a chain of events that lead to a full-blown investigation. The tension between the two main characters, Edith and Rose, escalates, driving the plot forward with intense drama and intrigue.

The Investigation Unfolds

As the investigation progresses, the true nature of the conflict and the characters’ backstories are revealed. The film expertly weaves together personal drama with broader social themes, keeping viewers engaged till the very end.

Critical Acclaim

Certified Fresh

The movie has been certified fresh on Rotten Tomatoes, a testament to its quality and appeal. Critics have praised the film for its strong performances, particularly those of Colman and Buckley, as well as its engaging storyline and historical accuracy.

Reviews

Tom Shone of the Sunday Times remarked, “There’s nothing like two of the finest actresses of their generation waging war against each other.” This sentiment is echoed by many other critics who have lauded the film’s ability to balance personal conflict with broader social issues.

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Why You Should Watch Wicked Little Letters

Stellar Performances

With a cast led by Olivia Colman and Jessie Buckley, you can expect nothing short of brilliant performances. Their on-screen chemistry and the intensity of their interactions make the film a must-watch.

Engaging Storyline

The film’s plot is both intriguing and thought-provoking, blending personal drama with historical context seamlessly. The mystery of the letters keeps you guessing, while the character development ensures you’re invested in the outcome.

Historical Context

The setting of 1920s Britain during the Suffragette movement adds a layer of depth to the film, making it not just entertaining but also educational. It offers a glimpse into a significant period of history, enriching the viewing experience.

Streaming Details

Netflix UK

The film will be available for streaming on Netflix UK starting July 26th, 2024, thanks to a first-window deal with StudioCanal. This means UK viewers will have exclusive access to the film for a limited time.

Netflix US

For viewers in the United States, the wait might be a bit longer. Given the distribution rights held by Sony Pictures Classic, the film is expected to arrive on Netflix US sometime in 2024. Keep an eye on our Coming Soon section for the latest updates.

Conclusion

Wicked Little Letters is set to be one of the standout films of 2024, offering a blend of stellar performances, an engaging storyline, and a rich historical context. Whether you’re in the UK or the US, this film is worth the wait. So mark your calendars and get ready to dive into the intense world of Edith Swan and Rose Gooding.

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