Hunted

I've only see the pilot but it was a slick, fast-paced piece of work. They wasted no time getting into the story (stories) and to cover that amount of info in an hour without confusing or tiring the viewer was impressive.

The story centers around a gal who was special forces and is now part of a private sector (counter)espionage team. I won't get into any more details than to say she's hardcore.

I also have to say that I've always liked Melissa George, she can act and she does a believable job in action sequences too. She perfectly suited to this type of show, and the show works because of her.

The rest of the main cast, though largely unfamiliar to me (which means nothing), are clearly pros as well. They carved out their niches in the short time allotted to them and it's always a treat to have a strong supporting cast.

The show is definitely worth a watch.

Why, oh why, did this programme end after only one series? It has to be one of the best British productions I have seen in a long time. It's never too late to bring the concept back

I've just discovered via third party info online that BBC execs have decided not to renew their involvement in Hunted for a second season. Given the quality of the program, the strength of the production, cast, acting, not to mention reflecting the darker side of our zeitgeist, the decision is perplexing from a purist TV point of view. BBC have had recent form, a bit of a track record over recent years really, of canceling programs ahead of their time, often claiming poor ratings as an excuse, that were technically, thematically and stylistically rich, with ideas and characters that should have been allowed to be explored and developed: Outcasts, Zen, the cancellation of Whitechapel, Identity, The Body Farm, amongst others. The question is Why? What will happen with The Fall? Will it be allowed to reach it's final conclusion on it's own terms or be cut off. If not it would be interesting to know why some programs are given life and others not?

This would have been pretty much your average UK spy-thriller drama, but for one main exception.. and her name is Melissa George. Not hugely recognized in the US, she's the real reason this production is a couple notches above ordinary. The story-line and dialogue does not help her one bit.. as a result, it's near impossible for her to get away from the sad-sack frown she displays throughout most of the entire film. But without question she brings the only rays of enjoyment in what would have been otherwise a 2-3 episode-then quit watching enterprise. Had more effort been allotted to writing longer sentences of meaningful dialogue, and improved character development, this had potential to be one of the better examples of the genre. Casting her was the best decision the powers that be made.

This show is addictive, mysterious, and thrilling. It has it's faults just like any TV show. The choreography and cinematography for the fight scenes are a bit awkward at times. There might be a couple clichés here or there. However, I think the strong points in the show overshadow the small faults. And if the writers/directors work on those small flaws, this show would definitely become a 10 in my book! If you enjoyed the espionage and paranoia that existed in Alias/Nikita, you will enjoy this. Who do you trust? Will the lead character get caught in her lies? Who else is lying? It gets quite addictive.

The plot line is very continuous, which is another plus. There are no standalone episodes. Everything sticks close to the main plot.