Everything we know about ‘All the Light We Cannot See’
(Credit: Netflix)

Series

Everything we know about ‘All the Light We Cannot See’

Anthony Doerr’s Pulitzer Prize-winning lyrical war novel All the Light We Cannot See is often considered a modern-day masterpiece. Now, this beloved work is all set to release on Netflix as a four-part limited series directed by Shawn Levy. 

Developed by Steven Knight, this four-part series stars Aria Mia Loberti, Louis Hofmann, Mark Ruffalo, and Hugh Laurie. 

All the Light We Cannot See intricately weaves the tales of Marie-Laure, a blind French teenager, and Werner, a German soldier, whose destinies intersect amidst the backdrop of occupied France during World War II.

Read on if you want to know more about All the Light We Cannot See before adding it to your watchlist.

What is All the Light We Cannot See about?

The heart of All the Light We Cannot See lies in its evocative storytelling and profound exploration of human experiences amidst the backdrop of World War II. Set in German-occupied Paris, the narrative follows the intertwined destinies of two young individuals: Marie-Laure, a blind French teenager, and Werner, a German orphan. Their connection is forged through radio frequencies, providing a lifeline of hope and connection in a world marred by darkness and despair.

As Marie-Laure and her father flee Paris to seek refuge in Saint-Malo with her uncle, their paths cross with Werner’s. It’s a poignant coming-of-age story.

Who is in the cast of All the Light We Cannot See?

The cast of this Netflix adaptation is nothing short of stellar, featuring acclaimed actors alongside promising newcomers. Mark Ruffalo takes on the role of Daniel LeBlanc, Marie-Laure’s father, while Hugh Laurie portrays Etienne LeBlanc, her uncle. 

Loberti, who is herself legally blind, delivers a compelling performance as Marie-Laure, highlighting the character’s isolation and unwavering hope.

During an LA screening in April, Loberti discussed her approach to portraying Marie-Laure on screen. She delved into Marie-Laure’s challenging background, emphasising, “Marie-Laure experienced the loss of her mother during childbirth, and her father is her sole anchor and source of genuine connection.”

Loberti continued, “It’s a profoundly isolating experience, yet paradoxically not entirely so. This emotional complexity served as my touchstone for understanding her character. What does it mean to come of age under the care of your father alone, without a mother, especially during a time of growing extremism? How does this shape your development as a child? It’s that unwavering sense of hope within her that propels her forward with such resilience.”

Louis Hofmann, known for his role in Netflix’s Dark, portrays Werner Pfennig, a character defined by sensitivity and resilience. Lars Eidinger, Marion Bailey and Nell Sutton are also part of the ensemble.

When is All the Light We Cannot See releasing?

All the Light We Cannot See is set to premiere on Netflix on November 2nd, 2023. This highly-anticipated release will present the entire four-part limited series in one binge-worthy package.

Is there a trailer for All the Light We Cannot See?

Yes, a teaser trailer for All the Light We Cannot See was released on April 18th, 2023, and you can watch it below. A full trailer is expected before the official release of the limited series.