Collateral

Collateral is a gripping British television series, which originally aired on BBC Two and was subsequently made available on Netflix. The series was created by David Hare, a renowned playwright, and it encompasses genres such as drama, crime, and detective fiction. Esteemed British actress Carey Mulligan leads a talented ensemble cast that includes John Simm, Billie Piper, and Nicola Walker.

Collateral primarily takes place in London, setting a gritty and realistic backdrop that feeds into its moody atmosphere. Its plot unfolds over four episodes, each of which offers in-depth character examinations and intricate narrative threads that eventually weave together. The story begins with a pizza delivery man shot to death in a London suburb. At first glance, one might assume this murder to be a random act of violence; however, the complexities and implications of the incident soon come to light.

Carey Mulligan plays the role of Detective Inspector Kip Glaspie, an astute and tenacious policewoman embroiled in the confusing events. She refuses to accept the prevailing theory that the delivery man's death was a random act of violence and is determined to dig deeper. Despite pressure from her superiors, she pursues her unproven assumption that this senseless death is not as straightforward as it initially appears. Glaspie's determination to uncover the truth serves as the driving force behind the story, bringing dynamism and intensity to the character.

John Simm portrays David Mars, a troubled but likable politician grappling with the intricate web of his public and private life. Mars adds another layer of complexity to the story because the murder victim had delivered a pizza to his estranged wife immediately before his death. Through his involvement, the series subtly explores political dynamics and the struggles and personal costs often associated with a life in politics.

Billie Piper, known for her role in Doctor Who, portrays the character of Karen Mars, the estranged wife of David Mars. Karen is a complex yet relatable character who is stuck navigating the seemingly insurmountable challenges posed by life. Piper's nuanced performance adds a raw and visceral energy to the series.

Rounding out the lead cast is Nicola Walker, who plays Jane Oliver, a compassionate vicar facing her own moral dilemmas. Walker’s character provides an interesting contrast to the cutthroat world of crime and policing with her sympathetic portrayal of a member of the clergy struggling with her own internal conflicts.

‘Collateral’ is not simply a murder mystery. It is, instead, an exploration of the wider societal issues in contemporary Britain. The show discusses important topics such as immigration, human trafficking, and the plight of refugees, shedding light on various complex issues. These subjects, combined with the intriguing and mysterious nature of the investigation, give the show depth, ensuring that it is not just a typical crime drama.

The series stands out for its masterful storytelling, brilliant performances, and the way it tackles complicated and often unexplored topics. The smart, snappy dialogue and the intricacies of the characters’ personal lives enhance the viewing experience. Furthermore, the series benefits from Hare's experience as a playwright, providing a sense of theatricality and tension that is quite uncommon in the landscape of television crime dramas.

Underpinning the series is Hare's strong narrative control and the cast's powerful performances, with Carey Mulligan's dynamic showing being particularly memorable. The character development and multi-layered narrative blend into a compelling whole that ensures viewers remain riveted throughout each episode.

‘Collateral’ is a thought-provoking mini-series that delivers on many levels—be it as a thrilling, investigative quest for truth or a socioeconomic account of modern British society. It provides valuable insights into real-world issues and paints a portrait of the human condition from multiple perspectives. It is a skillfully crafted, atmospheric, and compelling drama series that will appeal to viewers who enjoy intuitive detective stories and audience members who appreciate a layered narrative with rich character development.

Overall, 'Collateral' is a smart, tightly plotted, and socially conscious Britain-centric drama, led by a compelling and complex ensemble cast. It's a memorable watch for anyone who loves crime dramas mixed with deeper societal themes.