Here’s Everything You Need To Know About the Luminaries

Somehow, the Starz App keeps finding the most enthralling, stylish, and sexy stories of the 1500-1800s and turning them into perfect shows. From Outlander to the Spanish Princess, paying only $5/month for 6 months for the STARZ App turned me into a history buff almost overnight, and The Luminaries is no different. 

This delicious new show, from the minds of Eve Hewson and Eva Green, tells the dark, twisty, epic tale of the 1860s gold rush, and the men and women who travelled to find their fortunes. It has romance, it has intrigue, it has fabulous costumes and gorgeous sets– what more could you want? 

If you aren’t already on the edge of your seat in anticipation for its Valentine’s Day premiere, here is everything you need to know about The Luminaries.

1. The cast is star studded.

You will recognize so many of the faces on screen when you watch: from the stunning Eva Green and Eve Hewson, who co-created the show, to the fantastic Himesh Patel, it is a masterclass in acting.

2. It’s based on a best-selling novel.

The six-part series is based on a novel by the same name by Eleanor Catton. If you are apprehensive about adaptations, fear not: Catton herself served as an executive producer on the show, ensuring that the production was in line with the story of the novel.

3. The visuals are stunning.

From 1860’s costumes to the gorgeous natural landscape of New Zealand, the large-scale visuals of this production are unmatched.

That being said, in the words of Refinery20, “the beauty of The Luminaries is in the details.”

From massive to miniscule, every aspect of the production is to die for.

4. It bears some historical truth.

The 1860’s gold rush of Otago, New Zealand, had a massive lasting effect on the make up of New Zealand’s population and history. It is fascinating to learn more about that time in history through a show as enthralling as The Luminaries– it is a lesson in history that doesn’t feel like a history lesson.

5. Critics are raving about it.

From “luminous” according to The Independant to “ravishing” from Den of Geek, we haven’t heard a negative adjective used to describe The Luminaries yet. Whether you are watching for the history, the plot, the romance, or the visuals– there’s something to enjoy here.

6. It centers powerful women as the main characters.

Creator and star Eve Hewson noted how proud she was that “there are so many female-driven parts that are really good, complex and different.” Especially with stories about eras when women were significantly oppressed and undervalued by society, it is always incredible to see writers finding stories to tell that showcase the strength and autonomy of women throughout history.

Have we convinced you yet? Try The Luminaries for yourself this Valentine’s Day on The Starz App and you will understand what the hype is all about.

Plus, you can get the STARZ App for only $5/month for 6 months– talk about a gold rush!