JackDuckworthsTechnoPigeon

To begin with, both Ruth Wilson and Daryl McCormack deserve an award for absolutely outstanding performances in this.

For anyone not aware of the background, the story - although fictional - is rooted in truth. A quick online search for topics such as Irish Mother & Baby homes, Magdalene Laundries or the Tuam babies mass grave scandal will give an insight into the corruption, illegality and abuses committed by the Catholic church in Ireland spanning decades. Not that this experience is unique to Ireland, they have also carried out similar activities in Spain, France, Canada, and elsewhere around the globe. All in the name of being "good Catholics" helping people (sic).

So, as you might have gathered, the plot is not for the faint-hearted. If you are expecting an easy watch or some light entertainment, this is not it. What it is, however, is a unique look into the long-term human effects of such abuses. The story is hard-hitting and is not afraid to speak the truth. The series, created by Joe Murtagh and directed by Harry Wootliff and Rachna Suri, offers a rare glimpse into the suffering and widespread destruction of lives resulting from the actions of the Catholic church.

At times, the plot can seem a little slow-paced, however, this is in keeping with the subject matter and it does pick up in pace in the final episodes. Cinematography is very well carried out and the locations are in keeping with the story and the times. The music, created by David Holmes and Brian Irvine, fits perfectly and is at times haunting.

The series was filmed in Northern Ireland and originally aired on BBC (UK state TV). It will be interesting to see if it will be picked up by RTE (the Irish state TV) or if, even in this age of streaming, they would prefer to sweep it under the carpet and pretend it doesn't exist.

This is a breath of fresh air for both UK and Irish television and I would say it is recommended viewing. A truly unique series. Well done to everyone involved.

As a murder mystery, this series is very average, even below average. It's slow and drawn-out with a lot of time spent of characters who are not relevant to the main plot. The acting is average, nobody really stands out.

But that is not the worst thing about this show. That has to go to the unnecessary, gratuitous and blatant police brutality which really makes the show hard to watch in places. This is normal behaviour for police in the Punjab? Really? And everybody just accepts it? They are unable to even speak to someone without resorting to violence! This show certainly does not paint Punjabi police in a good light.

Another issue with the show is an abundance of toxic masculity, often violent in nature and often coming from the police, as noticed by other reviewers. Then add it a few other themes like arranged (forced?) marriages. Is this the image the Punjab wants to display to the rest of the world?

Barun Sobti is a good actor? Really? His character is absolutely vile in this and I would be quite happy to never see his face again.

Suvinder Vicky's character comes across as some kind of bully-boy creepy stalker.

This show is six episodes long and I was trying to force myself to watch the last two just to get it finished. Was it worth it? No. I will watch murder/mystery shows from all over the world without any issue but this was dire.

Do yourself a favour. Leave the toxic, violent Punjabi police to wallow in their own issues and misery and simply avoid this excuse for a show.

Wow, I really don't get a lot of reviewers on here. Although reading through them, I am seeing a lot of similaries, almost copy and paste with a few telltale phrases appearing constantly. Now it's not like anyone would create multiple accounts just to give bad ratings to one particular show now, is it? Is it??! Well, it certainly looks that way from here.

However, fake reviewers are not my problem so I will leave them to their own misery.

The show itself is stunning. It's an absolute gem and easily the best thing to come out of the BBC for years. Shane Meadows is perfect in this, absolutely flawless. A special mention also to Stevie Binns (Mand) and Sophie McShera (Grace) who both deliver excellent performances.

The intro is really well done - cinematography, lighting, dialogue, everything and the inclusion of the Stag Men gives the show a darker, slightly supernatural twist which is very welcome.

The dialogue is appropriate for the area, people and period. At times, it was hilariously funny. I guess some people think a period drama must involve living in a mansion with a maid serving you tea and scones. Well, most people did not live like that and this series reflects this perfectly.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed it and it kept my attention throughout.

My only complaint is that it was too short. Only 3 episodes? The story was just getting started properly! So hopefully, there will either be a continuation of this season or a second season.