Mayflies

Death comes to us all in the end, often in a slow, painful and undiginfied manner. Some people, faced with a terminal diagnosis, prefer to check out early, which is illegal in Britain (unless it is done unaided) but is allowed in some other countries. To do so is, of course, a horrifically enormous decision. 'Mayflies' tells one such story, but, as its title suggests, it also encourages us to reflect on the briefness of life, and how we might end up facing our own deaths when our youths seem barely to have passed. It's a warm and affectionate piece, avoiding over-sentimentality (though some is necessarily in order). It does choose to give us a character the severity of whose illness is mostly hidden from us in off-camera visits to the toilet; our protagonist still presents as very much alive throughout the drama, which allows him full mental responsibility, but which also makes his choice seem somewhat premature. Not much happens that isn't obviously telegraphed from the outset; but it's an intelligent dramatisation of the realities of death and the ways we might choose to face it.

Having never wrote a review of any film or programme before, I find myself here pouring what's left of my emotions into these few paragraphs.

Mayflies has left me in bits and emotional wreck in a way that no visual entertainment has done before. An incredibly well told story by some fabulously gifted actors.

There is absolutely nothing glamorous about Mayflies and it's all the better for it!

I do hope Mayflies gets the recognition it deserves, not only for the performances of the actors, but also for shining a light on terminal illness and the effect it has on oneself and those around you. Bring a handkerchief.

Fantastic acting and story of compassion in the face to adversity that leads to one of the major discourses that I feel we need to address in our society. Nobody understands how important it is unless they have been touched by someone who's passing could have been made so much more dignified by having a choice.

This series really touches upon the most important points and that is one of personal choice, many people are against someone having this choice on grounds of religion or lack of understanding of the suffering, but who is right to impose their opinion on others, however, currently in the UK it is the law and this is where the change needs to happen to match the more progressive societies which have already approved a change to allow dignity in dying.

I enjoyed the fact that rather than everyone getting on a plane in harmony, the internal battles of the three main characters are followed all the way to the end. I dropped one point as I think an important part of the issue is also how those that are left are affected.

The younger 80s back story was very interesting and important part of the character development and fairly well acted but the main lead was the standout for me, Tom Curren just went above and beyond for me and should be an award winning performance..

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.

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!