Two thirds of the way through the series, BBC One’s River is holding its own in the drama stakes, as it strikes a near perfect balance between the conflicted mental state of our main protagonist and the investigation into his police partner’s death. Unlike previous instalments, where there has been a third police related plot … >

With the main plot points of BBC One’s River explained and explored over the first couple of episodes, the object of focus becomes the life (and death) of the title character’s ex police partner, Stevie (Nicola Walker) and the secrets that she left behind, that River is slowly beginning to uncover. With last week’s revelations … >

The second episode of BBC One’s River, having established the main plots in last week’s debut, focuses this week on redemption and relationships, as we see John River (Stellan Skarsgard) say sorry, say goodbye and speak some necessary truths. Thor star Skarsgard continues to be brilliant as the emotionally fragile policeman, haunted by ghosts and … >

BBC One’s River had a lot going for it before it aired, given that it boasted Hollywood star Stellan Skarsgard in its lead role. However, was this just stunt casting? Another example of film stars quietly commuting to television for more character-based work between big superhero movies? Or does the new six-part crime drama offer … >