Group of teenagers dancing in front of a bonfire

The touching 2023 drama is now streaming for free on BBC iPlayer (Image: Haymarket Films)

A moving drama that had audiences captivated has arrived on BBC iPlayer just in time for your midweek entertainment.

Initially broadcast in 2023, Kindling represented writer-director Connor O’Hara’s maiden feature film venture.

Despite being a newcomer to the field, O’Hara collaborated with a remarkable ensemble featuring Sex Education’s George Somner and fellow Netflix star Mia McKenna-Bruce (Agatha Christie’s Seven Dials).

The poignant drama follows a group of young men who journey back to their hometown for one final summer with their terminally ill mate, Sid (Somner).

Grappling with his fate, Sid makes a plan to ensure the summer is unforgettable. He assembles his mates and challenges each of them to find an object that links their circle to either love, home, friends, family or location, reports the Mirror.

Mia Mckenna Bruce in Kindling

It follows a group of young men coming to terms with the loss of their friend (Image: Haymarket Films)

 

Being a science nerd, Sid decided to burn every cherished item to immortalise his memory as particles floating in the air.

Predictably, the film delves into weighty subjects including bereavement and terminal illness. However, it also examines uplifting themes such as the significance of friendship.

While Kindling failed to generate significant buzz during its premiere, viewers who discovered it were utterly enthralled.

Writing on Rotten Tomatoes, one fan enthused: “Very touching film with some fantastic performances by such a young cast! The filmmakers did a great job of handling such complex subject matter without it feeling heavy-handed. I hope more people see this film!”

Meanwhile, an IMDb reviewer hailed it as “a classic in every way,” continuing: “Kindling kept me glued to the screen in a trance.”

Wilson Mbomio, George Somner and Connor O'Hara

Kindling’s cast earned widespread praise (Image: Getty Images)

A third audience member offered their own enthusiastic verdict: “Overall, Kindling is a touching and beautifully made film that will leave you feeling grateful for the people in your life. It is a celebration of life and friendship, and a reminder to cherish every moment we have. Highly recommended.”

Whilst a Letterboxd reviewer gushed: “One of those deeper films about real friendship, love and loss. This in many ways is about how loss affects the individuals, the friends, family members and an outsider. Thought provoking, sad, happy and very real. A film which needs to be watched more than once.”

However, another viewer cautioned: “Be prepared to cry if you’re gonna watch this.”