The Trouble with Maggie Cole

I suppose I have different standards than many other IMDB users. I simply want to be quietly entertained. No politics, no violence, no trying to sway my opinion on one subject or another. Therefore, I find the series pleasant and thoughtful. I never saw ads for it and I am not hampered by recognizing any of the actors. I am currently viewing episode 3 through On Demand PBS in the US and today is Election Day. This is the ticket for me.

In isolation at home and flicking through ITV hub I came across a Dawn French show I wasn't aware of, wasn't initially sure why this had passed me by.

However, halfway through the first episode I realised why none of my friends and the media had been talking about this show. Extremely poor writing. Are there no good writers out there anymore?

I struggled to get to episode 4 and then just had to give up.

Sorry Dawn I love you, but most certainly don't love this! This is truly another failure for ITV.

I have no idea what the negative reviewers watched, but it wasn't this show! I found none of their reviews accurate or relevant. This is a very well made show telling a great story with beautiful scenery and great acting. See it for yourself - it's short and I watched it all this morning.

Words have a powerful impact, as Maggie Cole finds out when she gives a frank and explicit interview on the local radio, where she discusses the locals. Maggie quickly falls out with everyone, and must spend her time building bridges.

It's a bit of a slow burner, but as it develops it really does come to life, the first episode is great, and you're left with no idea the direction it's going to take. Stick with it, as the last few episodes are incredibly rewarding, and very dramatic.

There is a definite Doc Martin vibe running through this, the setting and tone etc, but it is different.

French and Heap are very good throughout, showing they can do drama on the more serious side, the laughs are supplied by Vicki Pepperdine, who is just a joy as Secretary Karen.

If you need to know how harmful gossip can be, just watch this.

Very enjoyable, 8/10.

I imagine there are a few towns across UK (and the world) where situations like this would/could happen. While some of the storylines a questionable, the cast are very well placed and enjoyable to watch - with Gwyneth Keyworth stealing the show with her dry delivery. Pleasantly surprised by the number of days of sunshine this town receives. ;)