Good news, Channel 5 continues its move into commissioning great original drama. Bad news, 'Intruder' doesn't come anywhere near meeting the requirements to satisfy the adjective,'great'.
This must have a detrimental effect on the broadcaster's reputation for providing quality programmes.
Having watched just the first two episodes, it's clear to me that the problem with the series comes down to 3 main things:
1. The budget is too low (or appears to be). Channel 5 has teamed with Irish Television for further funding and as a consequence the series has to be filmed in Ireland, doubling as England. The result gives the whole thing a strange look. It's a bit like seeing the Hollywood Hills in the distance on the outdoor London set in the Austin Powers movie.
2. The screenplays have not been rigorously vetted during development or pre-production; as a result there is a lack of structure, dialogue and characterisation.
3. The directing is below par. There are sequences where it is quite clear that there has been little or no blocking or rehearsal; as a consequence the actors appear as if they don't quite know where to stand or what is going on. This usually happens when there is an inadequate shooting day schedule; brought on because the budget is too low. There is no directorial 'flair' so the whole thing comes over as drab; no clever camera movements or inspirational lighting.
The overall effect of these problems has resulted, sadly, in an amateur feel to the whole thing.
To be fair , though, there are some very good scenes and story twists and turns, but these are overwhelmed by the bad ones. They have a very competent cast but they are under directed and, as a result, are susceptible to over act.
Let's hope the next drama series from Channel 5 brings about more positive reviews.
