djohnson-97143

I so wanted to like this. I'm a great fan of Mark Heap and Rebecca Humphries, and still regard Green Wing as an underrated masterpiece.

But, oh dear. The problem, as so often with comedies nowadays, is that it simply isn't funny because the material is so weak, lazy and uninspired.

Combine poorly written dialogue with an overabundance of second-rate actors and the result is an embarrassing mess. There's no other way of saying it.

I'm going to persevere because I refuse to believe that writers of this auspicious pedigree will not improve as the show progresses. But the signs are not good so far.

I'm five episodes into this the 10th season and am thoroughly enjoying the series once again - after a long hiatus.

Apparently, the show has finally moved on from the labyrinthine and impenetrable rabbit holes of the interminably boring Agent Keen odysee and the Russian connection, and the writers are now refocussing on its original qualities and strengths: Reddington and the Blacklist.

May it long continue.

As many unconvincing past episodes Illustrated, none of other characters are strong enough individually to carry the show, and the often predictable storylines meander along aimlessy in his absence.

But the show is back on track.

I'm surprised at the poor reviews.

I found the acting to be good (Cole) to very good (Holland), the script generally serviceable rather than clunky and expositional (as is the case in most British TV series, sadly) and, despite the inevitable anomalies, the makers have created a credible and plausible 60s ambience and setting.

And although it's not as good as the film, and is inevitably eager to burnish its woke credentials to a new audience, it is certainly a cut above the usual vacuous dross we have to endure on a Sunday evening.