First published in 2006, James Chapman’s book has recently been updated. Drawing heavily on the BBC’s written archives, it is able to provide a deeper insight than most while looking at the Doctor Who’s development along with its wider cultural evolution and impact. Beginning in the early 1960s, Chapman reveals the research which laid the … >
Having drawn us in with both the characters and drama of the show, The Smoke’s third episode feels a lot more confident. This week’s instalment manages to weave more of the characters into the episode and, through a clever narrative structure, pushes their stories forward in a really interesting way. The episode features the characters … >
It can be a risky business, actors making up plays about actors. There’s every chance of so-called “civilians” being left cold by all the in-jokes and references to uniquely theatrical devices in the pursuit of a self-pleasuring gag. Thankfully, that doesn’t happen in tonight’s episode, although it could have been a very close call: this … >
Lately, among newspaper columnists and keyboard jockeys in the Fourth Estate gallop, there’s a tendency to shoehorn in a mention of a popular show that they’re also totes into too, honest, in an attempt to let you know they’re relevant. Popular namedrops include True Detective, Borgen, House of Cards and, yes, they’re good shows. But … >
And so BBC One’s award-winning and much-loved sitcom Outnumbered comes to an end, but does the finale do justice to the show’s seven year run? In essence, no. Sadly. It certainly doesn’t go out with a bang (though it does go out with a song; more of that later), the show leaves as humbly and … >
Last week dealt with the murky underbelly of the police; this week it was the beautiful game. Martha’s compassion for her clients continued as she came to the defence of gay footballer Jordan Sinclair (a stellar Ukweli Roach), who was facing prison for breaking the jaw of a fellow player. The smear-campaign against Jordan by … >
A baby is kidnapped, Robert the Bruce homaged, and the King’s mother turns up.
Despite the programme being called Mr Selfridge, in a rather bold move by the makers of the ITV drama, the latest episode has the titular character removed from proceedings. (Don’t worry, he’s back next week!)
‘What’s that about the torch being passed to the new generation? I think I may just be getting very old…’ Jonathan creaks during his newest investigation.
Tonight’s second instalment of The Smoke had to decide which route to go down to establish itself as something different from the usual fire-and-rescue drama.
Less visual effects and significant focus on the characters seems to have been the right way to go, as Episode 2 potentially trumps last week’s debut for watchability and development.