Press

I discovered this on a plane ride and devoured the whole series then and there. It's well written and the two main characters are extremely well played.

I have just finished watching the first episode of this new BBC drama. As a former journalist who gave up the trade due to corporate media pressure (though I was never a scribbler for the "tabloids") I understand that -in addition to feeling such corporate media pressure- the writers employed by these outlets do or die by the entertainment appeal of their articles. So far, and judging by the first episode, I must say: "Well done!" For I found the writing quite compelling and the acting superb even by the minor characters. And because, as the episode ended, I felt it had reached a crescendo that has left me wanting for more. Hopefully, my expectations will be matched by future deliveries. Oh! On not such a surprising note, "Kudos to the Brits!"

I am enjoying this series no end; compelling storylines, great characters, great script, great acting, excellent comparative plots with current affairs - when I watch I'm completely absorbed. Why are there not at LEAST 3 series? Only 6 episodes in total? What is wrong with this industry? I don't get it. Bloomin line of duty has loads of episodes and was like watching angry amateur night compared to this; all of them stomping around, shouting at each other with grumpy faces - you'd be forgiven for thinking that being mind bendingly jilted (for whatever reason) is a prerequisite for being on the force! The only nonsense is the flat share situation - in reality no person in their right mind would let that happen - big error on the writers part.

Riley and Chaplin were riveting in this wonderfully crafted, intelligent script about the dog-eat-dog business of the newspaper business. I think this story was a take on the British tabloid versus "good journalism" competitors in the UK, but it was also an interesting story about human nature.

The acting was superb. Chaplin and Riley should get awards for their terrific work in this series. They were the heart and soul of the story. I couldn't wait to see what happened from one episode to the next. The ending was a little soft, but the points were made about greed, ambition, and the counterweights of altruism and truth.

This is clearly a take on Guardian vs The Sun (or Mail) and it is entertaining and the characters are believable. A very entertaining show. Ben Chaplin really can play a ruthless man very well, and I thin Charlotte Riley is just fabulous and very versatile. I hope they will renew this.