Marriage

When Marriage was advertised on the BBC I said to my wife "That doesn't look very interesting " but. I like Sean Bean so we gave it a go.

What's it about ... well nothing really, a bit of jealousy, a difficult parent, a death and redundancy all mixed in to create a fly on the wall drama of a marriage.

The director was quite brave to show someone stacking a dishwasher in real time. Yet it is hypnotising, you get sucked into their world and want to know what happens next.

I understand a lot of people will get bored but I really enjoyed it.

It starts with a minor 'thing' that turns into a full blown public row about a baked potato. Turns out Sean's character is just scared of flying, but he won't say so, so the potato is the problem. This sets the stage for some wonderfully observed characteristics of a long term relationship. Some of you, although apparently very few based on current reviews, will recognise those moments that define real love and friendship.

There's a very telling scene in a graveyard where not a word is spoken, but both are broken, sob on a bench, yet contain their grief, no touching or hugs. A dead child? We don't know.

Stolen kisses are a thing, just a quick peck in passing, but say so much.

The stilted conversation until one says what they really think opens up some otherwise guarded emotions. The daughter's awful, controlling and totally selfish boyfriend is going to be a factor. These characters don't want to hurt each other, but I think they will.

Ignore the haters, this is clever and really well observed.

I can only imagine the poor reviews are from people who haven't been in a long term relationship and can't understand the dynamic.

From the word go I was amazed by the subtlety of the acting and the reality of the writing. The argument on the plane was perfect and only made better when they held hands on takeoff.

Beautifully written and perfectly acted.

I don't think it's as bad as everyone says. If you're of a certain age and have been in the same relationship for years you will absolutely "get it" but if you're younger than say 40 you probably think it's just a bit banal and slow. The one part I really hated (apart from the music what the blazes was that about?) was the totally unconvincing relationship they had with their step daughter they apparently adopted when she was about 5 I recollect. Every conversation was stilted like they were talking to a total stranger at a bus stop... weird.

I can understand the initial negative reviews for this show. I've never seen a show like it. Nothing happens and there are long periods where there's no dialogue. Anyone expecting car chases will be disappointed.

It's the most realistic portrayal of marriage Ive ever seen.

Sean Bean and Nicola Walker are absolutely stunning, the best in their field. I join others in hating the theme. I thought it was appalling. You grow to like the characters and their flaws. Sean Bean plays a somewhat pathetic character.

This show deserves kudos for the brilliant acting and the fact that it's so different. For those who wanted action it was like watching paint dry. For those who appreciate brilliant acting it was a Masterclass.