Saddlebags

While only in the first episode, it's pretty obvious that the novel's binary system of protagonists eventually colliding and transforming has been reduced to yet another glorification of maverick American Dreamers completely detached from reality. Nice touch to have Daniels take the shitheel role within waking memory of his performance as James Comey refusing to be cowed by Brendan Gleeson's chilling take on Mango Mussolini in The Comey Rule.

Translating the story of Conrad Hensley's journey through the Dantean furnace of California's penal system thanks to Coker's desperation and refusal to take responsibility for the excess, instead of being just another human impacted by decisions of the powerful, makes this series a completely different animal than the novel. I just hope that Wolfe was happy to cash the cheque.

Business mogul Charlie Croker sits comfortably at the top of his business empire, but after a lavish birthday party, it seems his empire is under threat, the vultures circle as his vast debts are called in.

It's definitely an interesting start, as a Brit I'm somewhat detached from American politics, but as an outsider it felt like a bit of a reflection of America's recent years.

It's a good start, it takes a little time to settle, and to work out, who's who and what's what, but it held my attention, and I'm keen to learn where they take it.

Jeff Daniels puts in a terrific, charismatic performance as Coker, and it is always good to see and hear the wonderful Shania Twain.

7/10.

I stopped counting when I heard the F word forty times. Do people really talk this way consistently. It is an interesting beginning as Jeff Daniels plays a blowhard billionaire who has used funds for his pleasure and now has the bank wanting 800 million bucks repaid. Daniels is furious that he isn't just granted a reprieve. He goes head to head with the representative from the bank. Like a certain politician, he decides the best way to get out of this is with threats. It gets really ugly. This guy is a rather mythical figure. I'm wondering if we are supposed to be pulling for this guy. Right now, I have trouble liking him.