Small Axe: What the Must Watch reviewers think
Every week, the Must Watch podcasters review the biggest TV and streaming shows.
This week, Scott Bryan and Hayley Campbell share their thoughts on Small Axe on BBC One.
Oscar winning Steve McQueen directs a series of five films about the real life experiences of London’s West Indian community between 1969 and 1982.
The first, Mangrove, tells the story of the Mangrove Nine who clashed with London police in 1970. The trial that followed was the first judicial acknowledgment of behaviour motivated by racial hatred within the Metropolitan Police.
Have you been watching it? What did you think? Leave your comments below...
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Photo: BBC/ McQueen Limited/ Des Willie
Scott says: “I didn’t even realise two hours had passed”
“I’d say this is probably one of the best TV dramas of the year. I was initially anxious because this is the longest show that me and Hayley have ever had to review on Must Watch. However, I think every single scene is necessary and every single character is brilliant.
“The story of the Mangrove Nine happened 50 years ago but it feels utterly relevant to now. I felt embarrassed for not knowing the story beforehand and it really showcases the role of TV to bring a spotlight to these stories and be an educator. This is the first time where I’ve let something play and didn’t even realise that two hours had passed.”
Photo: BBC/ McQueen Limited/ Des Willie
Hayley says: “A great, powerful piece of work”
“It’s a treat to get a new Steve McQueen movie in any year, but to get five that we can all watch at home in the middle of lockdown? We’re spoiled.
“I love it. It’s great. And I love that McQueen wanted to make these accessible by not putting them on streaming services. He’s put it on the BBC because he wants as many people to see it as possible. I thought it was a great, powerful piece of work.”
Photo: BBC/ McQueen Limited/ Des Willie
Small Axe starts on BBC One 14th November 2020. You can catch up on BBC iPlayer.
Must Watch is released as a podcast every Monday evening and is available on the free BBC Sounds app.
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