lowerorchard

Utterly spellbinding and tragic. What an excellent series of historical lessons. Gut wrenching insight into some of the most appalling acts of human savagery that have occurred over the past few decades. Insight from a US-only perspective doesn't taint this documentary series, instead it gives clarity into why decisions were made, even though they may now (and then) be considered wrong.

In today's inward looking, dictator led, foreigner hating, nationalistic fuelled world, this series illuminates more "how did it come to this" on a macro scale. The horrors being suffered by too many people, leading to displacement at best, or death at worst, clearly illustrates why so many refugees are seeking salvation and hope, driven to dangerous and difficult bids for freedom.

What an appalling species we can be. Or perhaps more accurately, there are some truly terrible men who have no consideration for many of their fellow human beings.

Luther the TV series were brilliant, dark, dangerous stories that had great depth and took time and thought to evolve. Elba was fabulous in the lead as a tortured good guy struggling against the system and the horrors put in his way. It was often gut wrenching and brilliantly sadistic without being gratuitous... gritty TV at its best. So when this movie arrived I was surprised and hopeful. More of the same? Well Idris is still a wearing the same clothes and looking tortured but this is a superficial pastiche which races through a somewhat chaotic and increasingly bizarre storyline. There is minimal character build up and the tale collapses into a final 45 minute sequence where I was left wondering how we got here and why? It was ok, I didn't hate it, but it's certainly NOT up to the very high standard of the REAL Luther. Lightweight and rather unbelievable.

The finalé was such a tremendous conclusion to a brilliantly written and acted series. Thought provoking and humbling, it was a perfect way to end. I have watched 2 seasons now and absolutely and unequivocally recommend this as top drawer British police drama of the highest quality. What a story!