Extremely Dangerous

Extremely Dangerous is a gripping British television series from itv that first aired in 1999. The show features Sean Bean, a renowned British actor celebrated for his multi-dimensional performances in both television and film. Known for his roles in "Game of Thrones", “Troy”, and “Lord of the Rings”, Bean brings his trademark intensity to this suspenseful four-part miniseries.

At the center of Extremely Dangerous is Neil Byrne, a hardened criminal portrayed by Sean Bean. The narrative begins with Byrne's daring escape from a high-speed train barrelling through the English countryside. On the run from the authorities, both local and international, Byrne is determined to find the truth behind allegations that plunged him into a whirlpool of crime and danger.

The central hook propelling the narrative forward is Byrne's quest to clear his name. Wrongly accused of the brutal murder of his wife and child, our protagonist is haunted by this personal tragedy and embarks on a journey of redemption. Bean's portrayal of Byrne is certainly one of the show's highlights. He masterfully projects a mix of intense determination with a deep, haunting sorrow, piquing the viewers' interest and investing them in his quest.

The series takes us on the run along with Byrne. The settings vary as the protagonist moves from Manchester's violent underworld to the bustling streets of London and beyond. Realistic and dark, the show delves into the often-misrepresented realities of the criminal world. The series doesn't flinch from presenting unpleasant details and hard-hitting narratives about crime and its consequences. It offers a rather gritty, realistic portrayal of the underbelly of society and captures the grim nuances effectively.

Joining Bean in the series is a supporting cast of accomplished British actors, including Juliet Aubrey, Ralph Brown, and Tony Booth, each bringing a unique flavor to the story. Their performances serve to ground the narrative, ensuring viewers remain engaged on multiple levels beyond the central plot.

As with any good thriller, the storyline is filled with tension. There's the overarching ambiguity of Byrne's guilt or innocence, and the mystery surrounding who framed him. It uses this uncertainty effectively to deliver punchy, tension-filled sequences. In the world of Extremely Dangerous, the line between friends and foes is often blurred, causing viewers to question motives and second guess each character's actions.

Woven into this are ample doses of action. Chase sequences, stunts, and combat scenes are well choreographed to liven up the pace. Seamlessly integrated into the narrative, they add an extra dimension to the storytelling without overshadowing the plot. Dramatic and thrilling, the action scenes do an excellent job of showcasing Byrne's desperation and resolve.

Extremely Dangerous is also a character study. It painstakingly lays bare the complexities of Byrne's character, demonstrating how a series of unfortunate events could turn an ordinary man's life upside down. This creates an emotional connection with the viewers, adding more depth to the story.

The series boasts a well-written script by Murray Smith. Smith is well known for his previous works such as "The Sweeney" and "The Paradise Club". He infuses Extremely Dangerous with a pulsating plot, sharp dialogue, and well-developed characters. His storytelling prowess is clearly on display as the story unfolds expertly, keeping viewers hooked from beginning to end.

Nominated for the Best Drama Serial BAFTA Cymru in 2000, Extremely Dangerous is a riveting series, deftly balancing action elements with a thrilling storyline and emotional depth. It offers a cinematic viewing experience on the small screen, which makes it a great watch for even the most discerning viewers.

Coming in at four episodes, this mini-series delivers a tightly-woven narrative and high-stakes drama without overstaying its welcome. Ending each episode on a cliffhanger, the creators ensure viewers will be eager to watch the next installment.

In conclusion, Extremely Dangerous starring Sean Bean is a captivating thriller series that leaves viewers on the edge of their seats. Its blend of suspense, action, and character development makes it a must-watch for fans of crime dramas. From its engaging storyline to its well-crafted characters, Extremely Dangerous is a testament to the quality and depth of storytelling in the realm of British television.