I didn't want to watch this at first. The thought of a sad tragic tale in a depressing, 80s communistic backdrop did not seem like a fun past time. And it wasn't, not in the traditional sense. Still, as soon as I finished the first episode, I couldn't stop until I was done with them all.

It is a very compelling series, informative but also very heavy, very dramatic. All should see it, if for no other reason than to know the history of the Chernobyl tragedy and to honor the unsung heroes who basically saved the world with their sacrifice.

Putting that aside, I must praise the creators of this show. As an Eastern European, a mere child in the eighties, I was impressed by the sets, the costumes and hairstyles. Everything, from the carefully chosen shoes of a character to the chipping paint on the windowsills of a hospital instantly sends me back to those times and, as such, confirms the high production quality of the show. Of course, the writing and the cast deserve praise as well. The main protagonists, seasoned actors all, had a decent script to work with and truly shine in their parts, even if their performances have an understated quality about them, a wise choice given the subject matter.

Overall I am impressed with this little mini series and heartily recommend it to everyone. It is a rare gem in the slew of today's mostly mediocre productions and tells a story that should be known to all.