Honest

Honest is a captivating British comedy-drama series which aired on ITV in 2008. The show provides viewers with an intriguing glimpse into the lives and struggles of a family trying to break free from its criminal past and step onto the path of honest living. This unique show, created by the Green brothers, artfully balances drama, comedy, and family dynamics against a backdrop of crime and redemption.

The main focus of the series is the Carter family. The head of the family, Mack Carter, played by Danny Webb, is a career criminal who finds himself in jail as the series begins. His wife, Lindsay Carter, portrayed by Amanda Redman, is left to raise their four children and keep the family afloat. The Carters, who would politely be called ‘scamps’ in the past, are trying to distance themselves from their checkered history and make something of their lives. Each member of the family has to deal with their own unique trials and tribulations in their pursuit of a straightforward, simple life.

Redman’s character, Lindsay Carter, is the heart and soul of the series. She is a fiercely determined woman who steadfastly leads her family towards their new life, facing numerous obstacles along the way with resilience and strength. Every episode sees Lindsay navigating a variety of challenges – from keeping her financially strained family together, to dealing with nosy neighbors, to keeping their old criminal lifestyle at arm's length. It is this balance of humor and grit, embodied in Lindsay's character, that gives Honest its unique appeal.

The Carter children also bring their own flavor to the show with their distinctive personalities. The two elder kids, twins Taylor and Vin, both find their own ways to deal with their father’s absence and the family's new direction. Taylor, portrayed by Matthew McNulty, is intelligent and tries to follow his mother's lead in following the straight and narrow. Vin, the charming rogue played by Elijah Baker, often struggles to break free from his criminal inclinations.

Meanwhile, the two younger siblings, Kacie and Little Mo, navigate the tumultuous seas of adolescence while dealing with their family’s circumstances.

The show also gives us an interesting look at the unique challenges of living on the fringes of the law. They have to deal with law enforcement, their dubious past and the temptation to fall back into old habits when things get tough. The dual nature of their lives creates a milieu of comedy, tragedy, and gripping drama for the viewers.

The show’s setting plays a significant role too. Taking place in suburban London, the environment teems with familiar neighborhood characters, lending authenticity to the narrative and situating the family in a real, vibrant community. It's a place where everyone knows everyone, and while this offers comfort, it also means that the Carter family's past is widely known, putting more pressure on their goals of reform.

A truly unique aspect of Honest is the tonality that mixes gritty reality with quirky humor. The comedy doesn’t come from traditional gags or set pieces, but from the naturalistic, often ironic situations the characters find themselves in. This is combined with well-drawn, multi-dimensional characters who viewers can empathize with despite, or perhaps because of, their flaws. The mix of humor and human fallibility makes the show both amusing and touching.

Furthermore, the storyline touches on more profound aspects of life, such as family values, love and trust, sacrifice, perseverance, and most importantly, honesty. The recurring theme of the series, reflected in its very name, is truthfulness – not just to others but also to oneself.

Honest, in conclusion, is a show that perfectly encapsulates the trials, tribulations, and transformation of a family entrenched in a criminal past, striving for honesty and integrity. Backed by a terrific cast, engaging storylines, well-blended humor, and profound themes, this British comedy-drama promises to keep viewers invested in the Carter family's journey from the very first scene.