Alibi

I will abstain from rating this 3 part movie because after watching part one I was so annoyed by the fatal plot flaw that I lost interest in watching the rest. The acting was good, the premise intriguing, but, from the beginning, the story revolves around the unlikely assumption that Marcey, the caterer, would put herself at risk by assisting a possible murderer, lying to the police and essentially becoming an accomplice. As the plot unfolds she gets in deeper and deeper ... why??? Why would any reasonable person do that? Sorry, I just couldn't buy it.

Michael Kitchen stars as a struggling businessman who throws a surprise party for his wife on their 19th wedding anniversary. Sophie Okeado is a benefits clerk who moonlights as a waitress and is on duty at the said party. On the way home she realises that her handbag has been left behind, so she returns to collect it and finds Kitchen dragging the body of his dead business partner across the hallway. The weak Kitchen falls apart and breaks down, but Sophie, who is made of much stronger stuff, decides to support him and provide an alibi for the 'accidental death' and subsequent events which unfold. The two main characters are superb and ably supported by Phylis Logan who plays Kitchen's wife. This was originally a three part series, but I watched it one sitting and it was well worth the time. Recommended.

Would you ever imagine Sophie Okonedo doing farce laugh out loud comedy with Michael Kitchen? See Alibi and I dare you not to guffaw. It's dark and slow burning and actually turns into a romance. My only gripe is that there wasn't a sequel. Best thing Paul Abbott has written. He's a genius helped by Hal Lindes understated score, and Catherine Creed's editing. Brilliant!

Ms. Okonedo is amazing and it is always a pleasure to watch Mr. Kitchen perform.

STAR RATING:*****Unmissable****Very Good***Okay**You Could Go Out For A Meal Instead*Avoid At All Costs

Alibi is a gripping and thoroughly engaging TV movie thriller,with believable characters in believable situations.This is given extra credence thanks to the realistic,down-to-earth performances from the two leads,Michael Kitchen and Sophie Okelondo.They are given no sassy dialogue or outlandish situations to perform with,which,in this instance,has been for the better.The story manages to keep you gripped over it's two part duration,with it's clever and entertaining twists and turns.Be warned,though,as it's not all great.The director allows the pace to drag a bit in parts,there is an unwelcome comedy element spewing over things and the ending is the very definition of anti climatic.Still,it's a very audacious and well made effort for ITV1 to herald,and is well worth catching if you haven't seen it already.***