Key Highlights
- Rod Liddle praises “Silent Witness” for its relatable characters and engaging plot.
- The show stands out from other contemporary crime dramas with its setting in Birmingham.
- Liddle criticizes the predictable nature of modern TV shows, citing examples like “Bangers and Cash.”
- He expresses concern over the lack of foreign-language documentaries, which he believes could lead to insularity.
- Rod Liddle discusses “Panorama: Our Man in Moscow,” highlighting its insightful reporting despite a lack of deeper analysis.
Silent Witness: A Relatable Crime Drama
Alright, I’ll admit it — “Silent Witness” is a guilty pleasure. The show, now into its 29th series, manages to break the mold set by many contemporary crime dramas. Unlike its counterparts that often depict characters as tortured souls lost in existential crises, the forensic team members of Silent Witness behave like ordinary human beings.
The characters are far from perfect; some, especially the assassin Gary Booth played by Adam Rayner, can be unbelievable.
But despite these flaws, the plotting is tight and the narrative doesn’t drag on endlessly with philosophical musings about life’s meaning. I found myself invested in what happens next, a rarity in such shows.
The Insipid World of Modern TV
Modern crime dramas are often set against bleak backdrops of grey skies, rain, and conifer trees. They follow tropes that have become so clichéd they’ve almost lost their power to shock. “Bangers and Cash,” for instance, is a pun on bangers and mash but features classic cars in what Liddle calls “amiably dull” episodes.
The show’s opening recaps are as predictable as the plot twists. The producers seem to think we need to be told what’s coming before it happens.
This is like reading the end of a book first — you lose some of the enjoyment. Similarly, every Gumby programme and Bargain Hunt do the same, offering no surprises.
The Curious Case of Lost Grail
Alice Roberts’ three-part series “Lost Grail” explores the legends surrounding Britain’s Holy Grail. While she is knowledgeable and speaks well, Roberts doesn’t delve deeply into whether the Grail ever existed. Instead, she leaves it to the viewer to decide if such a legendary object could have been real.
It’s a refreshing change from more dramatic presentations but lacks the depth of analysis that would make for truly compelling viewing. The show is dependable in its historical accuracy and Roberts’ presentation style, but the subject matter deserves more than a cursory exploration.
Panorama: Our Man in Moscow
Steve Rosenberg’s “Panorama: Our Man in Moscow” offers a fascinating glimpse into journalism from within Russia. Reporting under constant surveillance and facing hostile reactions, Rosenberg provides an honest account of the challenges faced by foreign correspondents there. However, he falls short in providing deeper insights into why Russia has become increasingly insular.
Rosenberg’s work is exemplary, but his analysis could benefit from a broader perspective on how economic factors led to Russia turning towards Asia for allies. The West’s mismanagement of its relations with Russia played a significant role, yet this nuance is missing in the show’s narrative.
The Future of TV
Despite the many flaws and predictability of modern TV shows, there are still moments that capture our attention. Silent Witness stands out as one such example. However, we must ensure that our entertainment doesn’t become too predictable or mundane.
Shows like “Panorama” offer valuable insights but need a more nuanced approach to storytelling.
Finally, let’s hope that foreign-language documentaries continue to make their way onto our screens. They provide a much-needed break from the insularity of domestic content and broaden our cultural horizons. Until then, we’re left with shows like “Beckham: Family at War” — a prime example of mindless entertainment.
