The Diplomat

I think the heavy "by the producers of The Bodyguard" advertising is a mistake, because this is nothing like The Bodyguard.

If you picture an enjoyable easy-watching six-part political spy drama, as might be made by the team behind Murder In Paradise, then you'd be much closer to what to expect.

There's one overarching plot that covers all six episodes, and while it's not exactly John Le Carre, it still kept me hooked throughout.

And then each episode contains a separate subplot exploring the day-to-day dramas of visitors to Barcelona. These can be a bit hit and miss. Some genuinely pull at your heartstrings, some are a bit silly.

The characters are all likeable, the two lead actresses are engaging, the locations look great, and there's a nice paired back contemporary feel to it. It does sometimes drift into "daytime TV" dialog, but not often enough to be a problem.

Overall, a fun night of binging and it kept me a lot more interested than I was expecting. I hope there's more to come!

Nothing that requires an on-screen warning with the exception of some random fruity dialogue that comes right out of the blue. It would suit an afternoon slot as much as a post-watershed placing. We watched all six episodes over 3 nights and thoroughly enjoyed the simple plot lines and great shots of Barcelona. The characters were straightforward and likeable and it wasn't difficult to spot the good guys from the bad guys. We found this a refreshing change from all of the complex stuff you get nowadays. We liked the lead characters and hope they all return for a second series. All-in-all this was a fun and easy watch.

The body of British boy Jay Sutherland is found floating in The Marina, his persistent father Colin refuses to accept the narrative given by The Police and powers that be, instead he looks for answers with the help of Laura Simmonds.

Every week The Consulate tackle a new case, all of which involve a British Citizen in Barcelona, but one case continues, The Sutherland case.

It is such an enjoyable series, it's one of those I'd class as a Sunday teatime show, I'd put it along with Mallorca Files and Father Brown, perfect viewing for Sunday teatime. It's light viewing, with a hint of grit thrown in.

It's a very well acted show, regulars Sophie Rundle, Steven Cree and Serena Manteghi are all great, and there are some fine guest performances too, Esther Hall and Lindsey Coulson stood out.

It looks great, with terrific location work, a City I would totally recommend visiting, it really is as gorgeous as it looks here.

Please let there be a second series.

8/10.

I feel pretty confident in saying that the writer's room for The Diplomat was a place of good humor - it shows in how they have deftly managed to avoid the trap of unrelenting drama. Instead we have a show quite deliberately punctuated with some great light touches and humorous exchanges - well executed and delivered with some subtlety.

It adds up to a watch that is quite compelling, easy to get invested in - all against the back-drop of the very photogenic Barcelona.

The comedic elements are not over played, but they do provide a perfect foil for the human dramas that the consulate has to navigate - and are well used to flesh out characterization and even minor plot points.

The end result is a show that is relaxing to watch and engaging - a great ensemble clearly enjoying their work. An easy 8.

... what are the odds.. two series, both released in 2023, both called 'The Diplomat'... one staring Keri Russell, other Sophie Rundel.. both well-done and VERY-entertaining

... English series produced by BBC Studios & World Productions released on Alibi Network of course to be overshadowed-dwarfed by the American production released on Netflix... actually think slightly-prefer the English offering over the American production... it's much less big-budget and cast & storlines more-interesting approachable-intimate-viewing

... yet they're equally looked forward to when awaiting next season series.. wishing both were just a little bit longer in episode number.