The Minister

Ráðherrann aka The Minister This engrossing 8 part political drama from Iceland has all that one has come to expect from this country.

Ólafur Darri Ólafsson is quite superb as the eponymous character (Benedikt), the newly elected Prime Minister of Iceland.

The problem is that he is bipolar, a hereditary disease he has inherited from his mother who as a result committed suicide when he was young.

What unfolds is a thoughtful drama about not only the illness but also the was the way Benedikt sees through the politics and makes decisions which are more logical to his mind, despite being against his party's politics and in some cases law.

If it can't be done, make up a new law!

The viewer is behind Benedikt for the most part, but the last couple of episodes sees a shift in this view.

Behind the scenes, the party politics is as you would expect, all self serving manipulation towards personal gain, so nobody really has he countries' or Benedikt's interests at heart, just their own. No change there!

The supporting cast is very strong. Where do they find so many good actors in such a small country?

I'd definitely recommend this if you are trying to find the next bingeable show. I came to watch Ólafur Darri Ólafsson and stayed because it's a poignant portrait of mental illness blended with political intrigue. There were a few too much cringey over the top scenes, but that's my only criticism.

This started OK mainly because Olafur Darri Olafsson is always watchable. But it became disappointing and almost laughable especially the manoeuverings of the various members of parliament. Constantly double crossing each other and when the ploy is revealed they don't even change their facial expression. Then five minutes later, they'll be getting into bed with the person who just double crossed them. As for the wife, despicable! A terrible actor and repellent character. Exactly the same frozen expressionless face for two whole seasons! I almost turned it off every time she came on screen. Best scenes by far are those during the manic episode. These were enjoyable and give a compassionate insight into the disease. 3 stars out of 10.

Great story,great scenery,great great great!! Thank God mental illness is finally being shown on the big screen the way it is irl. bravo Iceland! please keep them coming!!!

9.5 stars. Outstanding at every level. Ólafur Darri Ólafsson delivers a brilliant absolute tour de force performance breathtaking in alacrity and range. Don't miss the opportunity to see this production.