The Reckoning (TV Series) Episode #1.3 (2023) User Reviews

Another compelling episode.

[Sleepin_Dragon · 9/10 · 18 October 2023]

Just when you think Savile is at the height of his powers and fame, he goes one higher, close to the new Prime Minister, and hosting Jim'll Fix it, a massive show going out to millions, and allowing him access to young children.

It continues along the same form, incredibly watchable, but sickening and uncomfortable viewing once again, with the increase in his popularity came a larger pool of victims, more access and a greater protective ring around him.

Did Savile honestly think that he'd be able to atone for his disgusting crimes by doing more charity work? An interesting point to consider, personally I think he knew full well what he was doing.

I've learned one thing, I always thought his victims were female, that was a sickening revelation.

How good was Fenella Woolgar, that was a terrific performance as Margaret Thatcher, she absolutely nailed it, the voice, the walk, the facial gestures, that's a role I'd be interested to see her return to one day.

I detested Jim'll Fix it, even as a young child I thought he was creepy.

9/10.

Episode 3

[Prismark10 · 5/10 · 1 November 2023]

Once again as with The Long Shadow I cannot get over the dramatisation parts from the Reckoning.

Maybe these two events deal with in this case a high profile character I saw on television from childhood. In the case of the Yorkshire Ripper, a prolific serial killer from childhood. My mileage varies with other real life dramatisations such as Steeltown Murders because I was unaware of the original killings as I was too young at the time.

Episode 3 goes against Dame Janet Smith report into Jimmy Savile and the BBC, which the BBC had commissioned. One of its findings were: There is no evidence any senior member of staff was aware of Savile's conduct.

So here have Billy Cotton, head of light entertainment disregarding doubts over Savile and giving him a show aimed at children. That famous clip of scouts going on the Big Dipper from Jim'll Fix It will never be repeated. As Savile abused one of the kids. In real life another man joined in but this was airbrushed from the dramatisation.

The third episode extends his relationship with the Tory government and especially Mrs Thatcher over his fundraising activities. Trying to charm the royal family for the same reason. He definitely wanted that knighthood.

Also like Bill Cosby, when awarded a honorary doctorate from a university. He regarded himself as a doctor. You have that scene in Broadmoor where Savile thinks he knows more about treating the mentally ill more than the professionals puts his honorary doctorate in play.