Who Are the Stars of Netflix's Irish Comedy How to Get to Heaven from Belfast?

The new Netflix series, How to Get to Heaven from Belfast, marks a significant return for Derry Girls creator Lisa McGee. This eight-part thriller focuses on a group of adult female friends confronting the shocking death of a former member of their tight-knit group. Set against the backdrop of Northern Ireland, the show blends dark humour with poignant reflections on friendship and the complexities of growing up.

Last updated: 16 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

How to Get to Heaven from Belfast has officially premiered on Netflix, bringing fresh narratives to audiences that are both familiar and new. The series delves into the lives of three friends—Saoirse, Robyn, and Dara—who reunite following a tragic event, only to uncover secrets that could change their lives forever. This show is creating waves in the streaming world, especially among fans of McGee's previous work, as it continues to explore the complexities of friendship through a distinctly Irish lens.

Key takeaways

How to Get to Heaven from Belfast explores the dynamics of female friendship against a backdrop of dark comedy.
The show is set in Northern Ireland and weaves in cultural references and historical context.
Lisa McGee aims to highlight platonic love, celebrating enduring friendships from adolescence into adulthood.

Timeline: how we got here

Lisa McGee announced her new project in 2021, two years after the conclusion of Derry Girls. The show was developed with a focus on female friendships, and casting began shortly after, with filming taking place throughout 2022. The series premiered on Netflix in October 2023, marking the end of a long wait for fans eager to see McGee's next venture.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The latest details about How to Get to Heaven from Belfast highlight its unique plot twist—the death of a character that is later revealed to be untrue, setting off a series of events that challenge the friendships of the main characters. This narrative turn adds layers of intrigue and tension that differentiate it from McGee's previous work.

What was already established

Prior to this release, McGee was best known for Derry Girls, which gained international acclaim for its witty representation of life in Northern Ireland during the Troubles. Fans have been anticipating her next project, hoping for a continuation of her exploration into the lives of women in a contemporary context.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

How to Get to Heaven from Belfast not only offers entertainment but also invites viewers to reflect on the complexities of female relationships. The show presents a relatable mix of humour and drama, making it a potential talking point among friends and families as they engage with the themes of friendship and loss.

Businesses and jobs

The production of this series has contributed to local economies in Northern Ireland, generating jobs in the film and television sector. With increased interest in Northern Irish stories, there may be further opportunities for local talent and productions.

Policy and regulation

As the series touches upon themes related to the historical context of Northern Ireland, it may reignite discussions about representation and the portrayal of complex social issues in media, prompting responses from cultural commentators and policymakers alike.

Numbers that matter

Eight episodes in total, each delving deep into the characters’ past and present.
Set against the backdrop of Northern Ireland, an area with a rich cultural and historical narrative.
Features a cast of three lead actresses, all of whom have previously collaborated with McGee.
Released on Netflix, a platform with over 230 million subscribers worldwide, increasing potential viewership.

Definitions and jargon buster

Derry Girls: A comedy series created by Lisa McGee, focusing on the lives of teenage girls in Northern Ireland during the 1990s.
The Troubles: A conflict in Northern Ireland from the late 1960s to 1998, marked by violent clashes and political strife.
Streaming: The delivery of content over the internet in real-time, allowing viewers to watch shows without downloading them.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Viewers are encouraged to watch the series and engage in discussions about its themes. Following its release, expect social media buzz and potential reviews from critics and audiences alike.

Medium term (1–6 months)

With the cliffhanger ending, interest in a second season may prompt McGee and Netflix to consider the show's future. Fans will likely speculate on potential plot developments and character arcs.

Signals to watch

Ratings and viewership numbers on Netflix.
Feedback from audiences on social media platforms.
Announcements regarding a potential season two or spin-off projects.

Practical guidance

Do

Watch the series to fully engage with its narrative and themes.
Discuss the show with friends to explore the depth of its storytelling.
Follow the cast and creators on social media for updates and insights.

Don’t

Assume the show only focuses on comedy; be prepared for its darker themes.
Overlook the cultural references that enrich the viewing experience.
Miss out on engaging with the broader conversations it may spark.

Checklist

Have you watched all episodes?
Have you discussed the themes with friends?
Have you followed the show’s social media accounts?
Have you explored the cultural references mentioned in the show?
Have you considered how friendship shapes your own life?

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the series has garnered positive attention, there are uncertainties about how audiences will respond to its darker themes compared to the lightheartedness of Derry Girls. Additionally, the handling of sensitive historical contexts may draw mixed reactions, depending on individual perspectives about the portrayal of Northern Irish life.

Bottom line

How to Get to Heaven from Belfast promises to resonate deeply with viewers, combining humour with serious themes of friendship and loss. As audiences watch the series unfold, they may find themselves reflecting on their own connections and the impact of shared history in shaping relationships. Expect discussions around its cultural significance and potential for future seasons to continue long after the finale.

FAQs

What is How to Get to Heaven from Belfast about?

How to Get to Heaven from Belfast follows three friends as they navigate the aftermath of a former friend's death, revealing secrets and testing their bonds.

Who created the series?

The series was created by Lisa McGee, known for her previous work on Derry Girls, which gained acclaim for its portrayal of life in Northern Ireland.

Is the show available for streaming?

Yes, How to Get to Heaven from Belfast is available to stream on Netflix, making it accessible to a global audience.