BBC viewers can now stream 'thrilling masterpiece' series based on beloved franchise

Viewers of BBC can now stream a 'thrillingand explosive masterpiece' of a series that is based on a beloved franchise.

The broadcaster's streaming platform, iPlayer, now includes the first season of Twisted Metal. It is a live action adaptation of the classic PlayStation game, originally released back in 1995.

It sees players take control of a range of vehicles taking part in demolition derby-like combat competitions. The original title spawned three numbered sequels, two spin-offs and two reboots. The last game released was in 2012 on the PlayStation 3, with many fans still hoping it will one day make a return on modern platforms.

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According to the television adaptation's synopsis, the series is a high-octane action comedy about a motor-mouthed outsider known as a milkman who is offered a chance at a better life, but only if he can successfully deliver a mysterious package across a post-apocalyptic wasteland.

With the help of an axe-wielding car thief, he’ll face savage marauders driving vehicles of destruction and other dangers of the open road, including a deranged clown who drives an all too familiar ice cream truck.

The cast includes Marvel star Anthony Mackie as John Doe, the milkman, which is a term for someone who makes deliveries between surviving cities in this post-apocalyptic world. He is joined by Brooklyn Nine Nine actor Stephanie Beatriz, Thomas Haden Church and Neve Campbell.

Will Arnett provides the voice of villainous Sweet Tooth. Professional wrestler Samoa Joe provides the physical performance for the intimidating antagonist.

There have now been two seasons produced of the show, which are streaming on Paramount Plus, a service also available as an add-on via Prime Video. However, episodes from the first season are now also available for free on BBC iPlayer.

While the second season has been better received by critics, the series has an overall score of 79% on Rotten Tomatoes. Many fans have shared their opinion online, with those who loved the original games giving it their approval.

One admitted: "I discounted this show for a while because I didn't want it to tarnish the memories I had of playing Twisted Metal. I was wrong. This show is absolutely outstanding! Words cannot describe the joy it is to watch. They really paid attention to the details of the series. Twisted Metal isn't some shoddy slapped together production, you can tell that put a lot of effort and thought into making it."

Another went so far as to label it "a thrilling and explosive masterpiece." They continued: "Twisted Metal (the game) was an all time classic and I was surprised to find they had created a TV adaption of it.

"From the very first episode, it's evident that the creative team behind Twisted Metal spared no expense in crafting a visually stunning and action-packed world. The show flawlessly captures the dark and twisted atmosphere of the video game series, immersing viewers in a post-apocalyptic landscape where chaos reigns supreme.

"The attention to detail in the production design, the gritty visuals, and the breathtaking special effects all contribute to an immersive experience that truly captivates the audience."

Someone else added: "Now this series is absolutely perfect! For fans of the insanely popular Twisted Metal franchise that spanned so many games for PlayStation, Sony has hit the nail on the head with this live action adaptation.

"Ridiculously hilarious, insane bloody kill counts and a phenomenal cast all around, this is one show that you must not miss! Did I mention Will Arnett as the voice of Sweet Tooth is pure perfection as well?"

Twisted Metal is streaming on BBC iPlayer and Paramount+