Kitchen Sink Realism or Why British TV is So Damned Depressing
Published March 15, 2018

Kitchen Sink Realism or Why British TV is So Damned Depressing

The world of American TV and film is very different to its British counterpart. Popular American soaps revolve around the glamour of the rich and powerful. Even dramas geared for the teen and pre-teen crowd are awash in affluent kids with deep pockets…and seemingly deeper wardrobes. Based on the never ending parade of expensive outfits dressing stunningly gorgeous girls, these wardrobes must surely have, a Narnia-style hidden door in the back that leads into a department store. If, on the other hand, you’ve spent any time with British TV you will be familiar with the fact that it can be…

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Brenda Blethyn drama humor humour Jean-Marian Baptiste Jim Broadbent Ken Loach Mike Leigh Timothy Spall

Three Gritty British TV Shows
Published January 9, 2018

Three Gritty British TV Shows

~Happy Valley If it’s grit you’re after, it’s grit you’ll get with this show. This series plumbs the depths of human nature with its heartbreak, despair and just sheer stupidity. More than that, it takes a look at the many times a few words or an action can set people off in directions they really had no intention of going. The ripple effects from these decisions leave you squirming in your seat, because…well…you can just see the disaster that’s looming on the horizon. Catherine, played by the incredible Sarah Lancashire, is a cut-through-the-bullshit, hard-as-nails cop. Her teenage daughter committed suicide after…

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WATCHING

Brenda Blethyn crime drama Idris Elba Sarah Lancashire