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Lisa McGee’s ‘How to Get to Heaven From Belfast’ Debuts to Strong Reviews on Netflix

Early reviews emphasize genre-bending ambition, with a few noting pacing concerns toward the finale.

Overview

  • Now streaming globally since February 12, the eight-episode series marks the Derry Girls creator’s shift to an hour-long, mystery-driven format.
  • The story follows three longtime friends who reunite after an estranged classmate’s death and set off on a darkly comic investigation rooted in a shared past.
  • Critics highlight the leads’ chemistry and vivid production, with multiple four- and five-star write-ups and a reported 93% Rotten Tomatoes score.
  • Reviews describe a deliberate mix of caper, dark comedy, and thriller, supported by striking design, Irish locations spanning Belfast to Donegal, and a 2000s-leaning soundtrack.
  • While praised for its energy and character focus, several outlets say the plot grows dense late in the season, though viewers report high engagement and rapid bingeing.