Rain Dogs

I was so excited after watching the pilot: it felt like the freshest thing I'd seen in years. A novel and stimulating subject (the relationship between an upper class gay guy and an asbo single mother). It had enough 'trashiness' to keep things interesting despite the underlying sentimentality. The script was tight and punchy, the acting was mostly good (though I must say Daisy Cooper already lacked range).

Ep. 2 was not as good but I still had hopes. By Ep. 3 it was quite clear the writers first came up with the characters, and that the story was an afterthought. I've just watched Ep. 4 and it's only getting worse: or rather, getting nowhere. Bogged down with unnecessary sidekicks, the main characters fail to acquire complexity and are merely pushed further and further in the direction established in the pilot. Their relation is also rather flat and dialogues lack finesse. It's all around disappointing.

The series was marketed as a 'punk-rock romance' and I think it's quite an apposite description. There are two 'punk rock' areas in London: Camden and Hoxton. The first is full of has been tourists and a few crusties, the second is full of bankers and art school hipsters. Rain Dogs is 'punk rock' the Hoxton way: it's filled with intriguing and colourful character, but ultimately it's all navel-gazing passing itself as rebellion.

As "Rain Dogs" (2023 release from the UK; 5 episodes of about 26-28 minutes each) opens, we are introduced to Costello, a single mom, and her 9 yo daughter Iris. They are being evicted from their apartment for lack of paying rent. In a parallel story, a Simon, who s gay, is released from prison that same day. What is the relationship between Simon and Costello? More urgently, Costello needs to figure out where she and Iris can take shelter for the next night... At this point we are 10 minutes into Episode 1.

Couple of comments: this mini-series is the TV debut of British writer/creator Cash Carraway. Here she looks at the challenges facing many folks living at the margins in expensive cities like London (where this is set). Social and housing inequality is an actual problem that more and more people are encountering. This mini-series is billed as "black comedy" and for good reason. There are no "laugh out loud" moments, but quite a few scenes where I found myself chuckling, mostly at the quirky nature of this series. Daisy May Cooper (s Costello) takes the series on her shoulders in a frank yet moving performance. Bottom line: this is not for everyone, and certainly not for anyone looking for a "feel good" comedy.

"Rain Dogs" started airing on HBO in early March and is now available on HBO Max, where I caught it. I've seen 3 of the 5 episodes, with the last two remaining episodes to be released on the next 2 Mondays. If you are in the mood for something quirky and dark-ish that is most definitely also very British. I'd readily suggest you check this out, and draw your own conclusion.

I've given this a 10. Honestly, it's more an 8/9 but with only 783 reviews at time of writing, the 97 reviews who have given this 1 stars were not giving it anywhere near a fair appraisal. When so few vote overall, this brings the average down unfairly. I hope people don't get put off. This is a good well written gritty British drama comedy with strong performances from a great cast. It's shot well and the sound and soundtrack accompany the scenes well.

Yes, it's annoying how the narrative centres on Costello chasing a book deal; for some reason I find watching people chasing dreams unobtainable to most, tiring. But the relationships between the characters are interesting and relatable, Florian is an entertaining troubled soul. Len the pervert is also a good bit of eccentric fun. I loved the scene where Costello gifts one of his paintings and the recipient et al try to interpret it.

All in all a great British production. Thank you.

Not sure after 3 amazing episodes how this is floating in the 6-7 range.

I give it 10 out 19 hooked. C'mon episode 4!!!

I hope to see at least 4-5 seasons with this amAzing cast. It keeps you so intrigued you want to know the next move and can't wait for the next episode. I really wish I was able to binge watch it.

There is not a better British show on tv right now and the fact this is on Crave is unreal. Please do at least 5 seasons with this main cast you could go to Hogwarts and it would still be so interesting. We are so in the dark and can't wait for Ruton Rixton or whatever Mate. Keep it up!!! Here in Canada we love it !

The show is a dark comedy that does not shy away from the harsh realities of poverty, prejudice and social injustice. It also explores the themes of motherhood, friendship, sexuality and identity with honesty and humor. The show has a punky and energetic style that matches the personality of its protagonist, who is always ready to fight for what she believes in.

The show also benefits from the excellent performances of its cast, especially Cooper, who delivers a charismatic and nuanced portrayal of Costello. She makes us laugh, cry and root for her character, who is flawed but lovable. Tashjian is also impressive as Iris, who has a sharp wit and a big heart. Farthing adds some charm and contrast as Hugo, who has his own struggles with his family and his sexuality.

Rain Dogs is a refreshing and original series that offers a rare glimpse into the lives of people who are often ignored or marginalized by society. It is also a moving and inspiring story of love and survival that will make you laugh out loud one minute and tear up the next.