I'll start by saying that the production of this series is excellent, the acting is great, and the overall story is gripping. As someone from Northern Ireland it's always great to see anything from here portrayed in T. V or film, but there is usually a sense that it's a "B rate" production at best. I am thrilled to say that is not the case with 'Say Nothing', this series was so we'll done that I imagine it will be viewed and praised by people the world over. Things like this are usually only interesting to people from the island, people that were directly involved, or history buffs. But I think this will appeal to a broader audience as it is portrayed as a drama series with characters at it's heart.
I can't tell you how many times I have been watching something and have heard the Nortern Ireland accent butchered to the point where I cringe. I have always thought to myself 'if only we had some top actors (that aren't Liam Neeson) who could star in these roles'. We'll im not sure where they've been hiding, but they finally found them! The acting was excellent throughout the entire show, and it's great to see some home grown talent getting some much needed and deserved recognition. I was unfamiliar with most of the cast in this show, but if at least one or two don't go on to be house hold names in the UK I will be surprised (particularly the actors who played the Price sisters).
I haven't read the book, though I would imagine it's more historical and focused on the facts of what happened during the troubles. The show definitely keeps this in mind the historical and cultural impact throughout, although it is mostly character driven. It does a great job of developing the characters and portraying all sides of characters involved and showing a multitude of emotions for people we'd probably rather see as one dimensional in real life.
My only reservation with this show is that I felt the narrative of the troubles was slightly one sided. The focus is of course on the IRA/ republican movement, as such, it's no real surprise that they are viewed as the protagonist. However, there are two sides to the story with the Belfast conflict and it feels as thought the protestant/ unionist side was left out completely.
That being said, I think they done a good job of showing how nasty things got and how the lines got blurred between what is right and wrong, even in war times and even when you are convinced that the only right opinion is yours.
I expect this will be a hard watch for many people, especially those directly effected and those who may still be grieving the loss of loved ones. My hope is that people can enjoy it for what it is, an excellent piece of television on a topic that most of the world may have forgotten or never even heard of, and I hope prejudice doesn't get in the way of enjoying a good show.
