Lord of the Flies

Synopsis

After a devastating plane crash leaves a group of schoolboys stranded on a remote tropical island without any adults, they initially attempt to establish order for the sake of their survival. Ralph emerges as a charismatic and practical leader, supported by the rational, albeit punctilious, Piggy. However, growing tensions surface when Jack, who had also wanted to be ‘Chief’, shirks his duties of maintaining the signal fire in favour of feral hunting and having fun. As the castaways divide into fractions, the boys’ fragile sense of civilisation begins to crumble, leading them down a dangerous path from cooperation to conflict. Set in the early 1950s and remaining faithful to the spirit of Golding’s original book, this BBC series adapted by Adolescence screenwriter Jack Thorne explores powerful themes including human nature, loss of innocence and the pressures of youthful masculinity. 

Each episode focuses on a different character, offering varied perspectives on their shared struggle for survival. 

Episode One: Piggy (57 mins)

Piggy finds something that proves useful to the group but is hurt when his new friend breaks a promise. 

Episode Two: Jack (57 mins)

Jack’s determination to kill a pig leads him to neglect other duties, with grave consequences. 

Episode Three: Simon (58 mins)

Simon tries to warn his friends as the latest beast sighting spreads terror across the camps. 

Episode Four: Ralph (59 mins)

Ralph jumps into action when violence escalates, then realises with horror that it is his turn to be hunted.