Ashes to Ashes

Ashes to Ashes is a captivating British television series produced by Kudos Film & Television for BBC One, which aired between 2008 and 2010. The show, which became a cultural phenomenon, has a star-studded cast including Philip Glenister, Keeley Hawes, Dean Andrews, Marshall Lancaster, Montserrat Lombard, and Daniel Mays. Specifically, it follows the lead characters, Alexandra Drake (Hawes) and Gene Hunt (Glenister), in an exhilarating blend of mystery, crime, and drama.

Set in the 1980s, the narrative picks up where its predecessor, Life on Mars, left off. However, viewers new to the franchise can dive into Ashes to Ashes without prior knowledge of its predecessor and appreciate the intriguing narrative and compelling performances.

The plot kick-starts with DCI Alexandra Drake, a skilled modern-day detective and police psychologist being caught in an explosion and subsequently finding herself in the past, the year 1981, to be precise. The era switch brings up a distinct challenge as she has to navigate being a forward-thinking, professional woman in a predominantly male and frequently misogynistic police service.

Glenister is back, reprising his character, Detective Chief Inspector Gene Hunt from Life on Mars. This time he has swapped the Ford Cortina for an Audi Quattro and moved from the Manchester Police to the Metropolitan Police in London. His character, brash, tough-talking yet undeniably effective, is sure to keep the audience entertained and on-edge.

Other characters include DS Ray Carling (Andrews) and DC Chris Skelton (Lancaster) who add substantial depth to the ensemble. Their transition from Manchester in the 1970s to London in the 1980s enhances the narrative tension and helps to maintain the viewers' interest. WPC Sharon 'Shaz' Granger (Lombard) and DCI Jim Keats (Mays) further round out the main cast, each bringing unique personalities and perspectives to the storyline.

One of the series' strengths lies in its ability to balance drama, humor, and real heart-wrenching moments. Throughout the series, viewers are bound to find themselves laughing at the squad's archaic police methods, gasping at intriguing cliffhangers, or moved by the touching character moments. It also provides a fascinating snapshot of the ERA, complete with historically accurate set designs, costumes, and an iconic '80s soundtrack, which forms a vibrant backdrop to the compelling drama.

Ashes to Ashes consistently pushes the narrative envelope, offering unexpected twists and turns alongside deep-seated conspiracy theories. This show is packed full of mysteries and moral dilemmas, punctuated by action-packed sequences and mind-boggling investigations that keep the viewer glued to their seat until the very end.

Yet, beneath the immediate detective storyline, lies a deeper mystery about Alex's predicament. She finds herself grappling to understand her circumstances and decipher strange messages that hint she is in a coma in 2008. The question of how to return to the present runs parallel to the crime-solving narrative.

Furthermore, Ashes to Ashes intelligently tackles timely social issues of that period. Although primarily a police procedural, the series never shies away from addressing the social issues of the 1980s - from sexism in the workplace to the challenges of balancing work and family life for women.

The chemistry between Hawes and Glenister is palpable throughout the series. Their camaraderie significantly contributes to the show's charm and forms the heart of the series. While both fundamentally different in their approach to solving crime, they must find a way to work together effectively, creating an interesting dynamic.

In summary, Ashes to Ashes is BBC One's formidable blend of a gripping crime drama, imbued with mystifying time-travel elements. This series features a riveting plotline and unforgettable characters that draw viewers into a richly recreated 1980s London. It's a must-watch for those seeking a mix of mystery, action, humor, and nostalgia. Whether or not Alex can maneuver her way back to modern times adds an interesting layer to keep audiences tuning in week after week.