Fancy a trip back to the groovy 1970s, but with a healthy dose of crime and dodgy perms? ITV has just the ticket! Get ready to be transported to a world of flares, dodgy wallpaper, and police investigations with their latest crime drama, which is proving to be a proper blast from the past.
Life on Mars, but make it Yorkshire
Think *Life on Mars*, but swap Manchester for the rolling hills (and slightly less glamorous urban sprawl) of Yorkshire. We're not talking about a sci-fi twist this time, though. Instead, it's straight-up, no-nonsense police work with a distinctly 70s flavour.
The show, set in the mid-70s, follows a team of detectives grappling with everything from bank robberies to, well, let's just say the crimes are as colourful as the decade itself. Prepare for some serious shoulder pads and questionable moustaches!
Why it's more than just a nostalgia trip
Okay, yes, the 70s setting is a huge part of the appeal. But what makes this crime drama stand out is its clever blend of gritty realism and unexpected humour. It's not afraid to poke fun at the era's, ahem, *unique* fashion choices and social attitudes.
You'll find yourself chuckling at the archaic technology (rotary phones, anyone?), the blatant sexism (thankfully called out by some strong female characters), and the sheer absurdity of some of the situations. The actors clearly relish playing with the historical setting!
However, beneath the retro veneer, lies a compelling crime story with characters you genuinely care about. The cases are intriguing, the plot twists keep you guessing, and you'll find yourself invested in the personal lives of the detectives. It's about proper detecting, good old-fashioned police work, and the occasional dodgy pub brawl.
Heartwarming moments in a world of crime
Believe it or not, amid the criminal investigations and questionable fashion choices, there are some surprisingly heartwarming moments. The camaraderie between the police officers is palpable. You can see they really look out for each other.
The relationships, though often complicated, are built on a foundation of loyalty and respect. There are instances where you'll find yourself tearing up unexpectedly. The drama knows how to get you emotionally invested.
The storylines often touch on social issues prevalent in the 1970s. It gives the show an extra layer of depth and relevance. The past, it turns out, can teach us a lot about the present, too.
It's a great reminder that some struggles never really go away.
Don't expect high-tech wizardry (or reliable cars)
Forget forensic science and DNA analysis. This is police work the old-fashioned way. Expect lots of legwork, interviewing witnesses in smoky pubs, and relying on gut instincts (and the occasional lucky break). The cars are as temperamental as the suspects!
There's a definite charm to watching detectives piece together clues without the aid of modern technology. The slower pace allows for more character development and a greater sense of suspense. The show reminds us that you don't need fancy gadgets to solve a crime.
So, if you're looking for a crime drama that's both entertaining and thought-provoking, with a healthy dose of 70s nostalgia thrown in for good measure, then this ITV offering is definitely worth a watch. Just be prepared for some serious fashion envy (or perhaps horror) and a soundtrack that will have you dusting off your old vinyl. It's proper good, as they say in Yorkshire.
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