The_Critical_Eye Reviews

First Born (1988)

The Only TV/Film I've Seen That Made Me Burst Into Tears

[9/10 · 11 July 2023]

That says it all I think. I was old enough to watch it and I felt fine. Then afterwards I went to see my parents in another room and wow, was just overcome with emotion. Was a bit sad that not many people spoke about it the next day at School.

This was pretty disturbing/sad stuff and pretty tense. A great BBC drama of the 80s. ITV brought out Chimera a couple of years later which was in a similar vein.

Anyway, I haven't seen it in 35 years so don't expect me to add anything further here because I can't remember! I've got the DVD but haven't brought myself to watch it again yet!

If you want another recommendation for the era, go and watch Maelstrom (1985).

Murder in Successville (2015–2017)

Original, funny, clever, simple, well produced.

[9/10 · 2 June 2015]

This show is all about the concept - putting an unsuspecting TV celeb in the position of solving a murder mystery. Throw in exaggerated character impersonations, a bit of humour, a touch of awkwardness, a bit of improv (this is where it really comes to life), and great end credit songs, and you've got a gem.

Rarely do I feel the need to watch something twice when it comes out, but this programme has that affect as it is full of nuances and little bits of information that are good for a second viewing.

DI Sleet, the chief (Gordon Ramsay) and Ciarad Lloyd deserve special mention, though the celebs each play their part.

It's nice to see something different from the usual panel show/sitcom based comedy. Hopefully there's more to come.