The Affair, the Showtime drama starring  Dominic West, Ruth Wilson and Joshua Jackson, has received stunning reviews following its premiere in the UK this week. The series won the Golden Globe Award for Best Television Series - Drama and Ruth Wilson won the award for Best Actress - Television Series Drama at the 72nd Golden Globe Awards in 2015.

Dominic WestDominic West excels in Showtime's critically acclaimed drama The Affair

It tells the story of a Hamptons waitress (Wilson) who tries to recover from a personal tragedy while her husband Cole (Jackson) struggles to keep the family ranch and their marriage together. The consequences of Alison's affair with Noah (West), a New York City teacher, is explored from each character's perspective. 

More: On Borrowed Time: BBC Two axes Dominic West starrer The Hour

"As much as the script, Reiner's direction makes both stories seem oxymoronically unique and distinct at the same time. The performances are extraordinary, as they must be to complete the process of retelling a seemingly similar story," said David Wiegand of the San Francisco Chronicle.

"The pilot (the only episode made available to critics at press time) has some difficult scenes, including an act of marital rape (or something like it), yet the acting is strong and the story is compulsively intriguing. The first thing you want from The Affair is to see where it leads," said Hank Stuever of the Washington Post.

More: With 100%, Pride is probably the best movie of 2014

"The Affair looks to be a bit more cerebral than some of Showtime's other star shows. That makes it no less compelling," wrote Dave Hinckley of New York Daily News.

Showtime has officially picked up The Affair for a second season.