'Masterpiece' BBC drama series that's 'the best supernatural zombie show ever made'

Zombie shows tend to split opinion. Some people love them and others find the genre tired, repetitive, or just not for them. But there's one BBC drama that seems to have brought both sides together, and it's being described as one of the best ever made.

It's not your typical zombie story. Instead of mindless gore or endless survival scenes, the show offers something different. And even those who don't usually enjoy supernatural series say they were blown away after giving it a chance. The series has a 97% critic score on Rotten Tomatoes and a 96% audience rating. It's been rediscovered by viewers in recent months, and many are calling it "a hidden gem that ended far too soon".

One person said: "I must say first that I'm not really into any series involving zombies or ghosts or anything supernatural.

"But after being convinced by a friend I decided to give it a go. Boy am I glad I did it. It's by far the best supernatural zombie show ever made. I couldn't wait to watch the next episode."

Another added: "I've watched every 'zombie' TV show and movie ever created. This show is so unique and realistic, it brings up social fears, paranoia, and discrimination in a whole new light."

A third commented: "It's one of my favourite shows of all time but I wish they made more seasons because it's rather short."

And a fourth said: "How did I not see this before now? I am and always have been a zombie movie/TV show lover. This series is so good! I love the twist and new take on zombies."

The show they're talking about is In the Flesh, a BBC Three drama starring Luke Newberry as Kieren Walker, a teenage boy who died during "The Rising" and is later brought back to life.

Set after a zombie outbreak has already been contained, it follows Kieren's return to his quiet village in Lancashire, where those with 'Partially Deceased Syndrome' are met with suspicion and fear.

Many viewers said the series has a clever twist on the zombie genre and praised the way it tackles serious themes like grief, trauma and prejudice.

The show ran for two short series between 2013 and 2014. The first had just three episodes, while the second had six.

Despite winning a BAFTA for the Best Mini-Series and widespread critical acclaim, the BBC cancelled it in 2015 due to budget cuts.

In the years since, it's gained somewhat of a cult status, with fans regularly calling for its return and recommending it to anyone who missed it the first time round.

Season 1 of In the Flesh is available to watch now on BBC iPlayer.