The Midwich Cuckoos

A strange event knocks out an entire English village for a single day, and when people come round they discover a shocking consequence: a number of local women are suddenly pregnant. The series follows residents as they try to make sense of what happened, juggling bewilderment, fear and the practical demands of everyday life as the pregnancies progress. Central figures like Susannah Zellaby and Paul Haynes are drawn into disputes about care, secrecy and safety, while relationships fray under suspicion. The show keeps its focus on mood and moral questions rather than spectacle, letting the odd behavior of the unborn children and the town’s unraveling create mounting dread without revealing all its cards.

Created in 2022 by David Farr, the series adapts John Wyndham’s novel for television, and features Keeley Hawes, Max Beesley, Aisling Loftus, Ukweli Roach and Lara Rossi in leading roles.

The Midwich Cuckoos reintroduces Wyndham’s story to a 21st century audience and sits alongside earlier adaptations, prompting renewed interest in the novel. It sparked conversation about how classic British science fiction can be updated for TV, especially around issues of communal trust, reproduction and national anxiety.

Critical and audience responses were mixed to positive, reflected in a 6.7/10 user vote average. Many viewers and reviewers singled out the cast’s performances and the series’ ominous tone, while others pointed to uneven pacing and unanswered questions. The show leans into themes of motherhood, autonomy, collective fear and how small communities manage extraordinary threats.

While the production drew attention for its cast and contemporary makeover of a well known book, it did not receive major awards recognition. Press coverage often noted Keeley Hawes’ performance as a highlight, and the series kept audiences talking about ethical dilemmas and genre expectations.