Press

I have just finished watching the first episode of this new BBC drama. As a former journalist who gave up the trade due to corporate media pressure (though I was never a scribbler for the "tabloids") I understand that -in addition to feeling such corporate media pressure- the writers employed by these outlets do or die by the entertainment appeal of their articles. So far, and judging by the first episode, I must say: "Well done!" For I found the writing quite compelling and the acting superb even by the minor characters. And because, as the episode ended, I felt it had reached a crescendo that has left me wanting for more. Hopefully, my expectations will be matched by future deliveries. Oh! On not such a surprising note, "Kudos to the Brits!"

There is so much drivel out there. So many tv series are poorly scripted, poorly acted and lack realistic plots. This was the exact opposite. The two central characters played by Charlotte Riley and Ben Chaplin are a master class in acting, perfectly matched and utterly believable. The story lines interesting and reflect what we see say to say in the British press. I can't understand why there is only one series??! Baffling. There is so much more scope for character and story development with the incredible ensemble cast of Al Weaver, Paapa Essiedu and Ellie Kendrick. What a waste!

I'm surprised by the negative reviews of this series. I've watched two episodes so far, I found it well written, well acted and very enjoyable. The contrasting motivations, of the two newspapers, cleverly provides extra depth to the characters who are both plausible and engaging. Charlotte Riley is outstanding as Holly Evans, an intelligent, hard working journalist with lofty principles but enough experience to know how to uncover the real story. Ben Chaplin is convincing as the world weary editor of the sleazier of the two papers with a set of pragmatic philosophies that give him an attractive earthy wisdom. I wonder if some of the IMDB reviewers are confusing an assessment of the series with an assessment of UK Journalists, whose shortcomings have been well publicised recently. For the sake of clarity, UK Journalists - not great, this series about UK Journalists - great. I hope that's clear.

It was a very interesting program, only wished it was longer. It ended just when it started getting similar to what is going on now here. Reminded me of Newsroom program. Hope some sharp Producers pick this idea up to monitor Our current Political battle in the U.S.

Riley and Chaplin were riveting in this wonderfully crafted, intelligent script about the dog-eat-dog business of the newspaper business. I think this story was a take on the British tabloid versus "good journalism" competitors in the UK, but it was also an interesting story about human nature.

The acting was superb. Chaplin and Riley should get awards for their terrific work in this series. They were the heart and soul of the story. I couldn't wait to see what happened from one episode to the next. The ending was a little soft, but the points were made about greed, ambition, and the counterweights of altruism and truth.