Sleepin_Dragon

Purdue Pharma launches OxyContin to largely positive reviews, though many quickly point out that while it works, the effects don't actually last the full twelve hours. The solution? Simply double the dose.

It's jaw-dropping. I genuinely can't believe what's unfolding here - the decisions being made are appalling. There's no universe in which the people in charge didn't understand the consequences of dramatically increasing the dose.

There's a clear social commentary running through the episode, but it never feels forced. The mix of characters about to be affected by the drug works really well, and I'm particularly drawn to Dr Finnix. He's such a fundamentally decent man, and watching him be manipulated is grimly effective. Michael Keaton genuinely brings him to life.

And that label they managed to get onto the product... whoever approved it should be answering for it. Breakthrough pain??? Unbelievable.

Excellent episode.

9/10.

Richard Sackler goes hunting for the next big pain medication - the product that'll supposedly redefine the entire market - and after years of effort and millions spent, OxyContin finally lands, packaged with the bold promise that only 1% of users become addicted.

It's a cracking first episode. I never felt an urgent need to watch this, having seen and raved about 'Painkiller', but I should have jumped in much sooner. It's a very strong start. The characters they've chosen feel well-balanced, an interesting mix, and the ones operating at the top of Purdue Pharma are particularly compelling.

The narrative does hop around a little, so if you get up to refill your glass and return thinking the tone's shifted, you may be watching the beginning of the story... or the end. I'm curious whether the whole series will follow this structure or settle into something more linear. Either way, it's hooked me.

We do get the 'obligatory' social commentary as expected.

It does make you wonder what will happen the next time a "miracle" product is released onto the market.

For context, I stubbed my toe on the lounge door and opted for red wine instead of painkillers. Probably wise.

8/10.

Amanda, now divorced, has had to move away with her kids to South Harlesden. She quickly learns that life as a single mum can be tough-she needs a job, and has to find ways to sprinkle a little glitz and glamour over the area.

I'll admit it: I actually prefer Amandaland to Motherland. The spinoff is just a touch funnier, as Amanda is the perfect central character-easy to love, easy to hate, and sometimes I'm not sure which emotion I'm feeling while watching her scheme. Lucy Punch is terrific, and Amanda's antics are genuinely hilarious.

The supporting cast is excellent. Of course, we know Amanda's mum and best friend, but we're also introduced to Della, Fi, Mal, JJ, and more. Only Johannes feels like someone you'd want to throw... a poisonous adder at. Possibly while he's juggling champagne glasses.

It starts strong, but stick with it-it definitely gets funnier as the series progresses. The camping episode, in particular, is brilliant.

I'm delighted it's spawned a Christmas special and a second series. It's a BBC comedy that doesn't make you wince at every joke-finally, a series that knows when to be funny and when to be clever.

8/10.