Next of Kin

Next of Kin is a gripping six-part British thriller that originally aired on ITV in the beginning of 2018 before becoming available on Sundance Now later in the same year. The intricate storyline immerses the viewer right from the first episode and continues to deliver riveting content throughout all its episodes. The careful crafting of the story is such that it has the ability to put the viewer on the edge of their seat while also provoking contemplation on the state of world affairs.

At its core, Next of Kin is a powerfully intense drama revolving around the complexities and ambiguities of affiliations – familial, cultural and national, as it dissects the intricate ties between a loving family caught up in the tumultuous world of international terrorism.

Esteemed actress Archie Panjabi, known from her role on The Good Wife, leads the talented cast in Next of Kin. She plays the role of Dr. Mona Harcourt, a successful general practitioner working in London whose life is turned upside down when traumatic news hit her family. Mona is an exemplary figure of cross-cultural success, navigating between her life in London and her Pakistani roots, something which helps her otherness stand out and create a very effective angle for the narrative, particularly when it delves into issues of identity and belonging.

Despite the multicultural harmony within the family, the outside world imposes threats. The story takes a deep dive into darkness triggered by unforeseeable and horrifying events. This family thriller grasps the viewer's interest by displaying the raw reality of a family trapped between their loyalty to each other and the force of disturbing world events.

Acting alongside Archie Panjabi in this highly acclaimed series is English actor Jack Davenport, known for his performances in Pirates of the Caribbean and Smash. Davenport plays the role of Guy Harcourt, Mona's politically connected husband. Well-crafted narrative explores the strain their relationship undergoes in face of the crisis, and themes of loyalty, obligation, and the thin line that separates both.

Each episode carries the narrative forward while feeding suspense, suspense enough that you can't help yourself but to watch the next episode. The series articulately deploys suspense as a tool to keep its audiences intrigued, effectively exploring the choices the characters must make under duress.

A major strength of the series is its intricate character development; whether it's exploring the multi-dimensional facets of a role or the subtle transformation a character undergoes as a reaction to their circumstances, Next of Kin does a phenomenal job in not just building its characters but also portraying them realistically in the face of dire circumstances.

Next to the inexorable plot and the remarkable performances, Next of Kin also impresses on a technical level. Cinematography blends seamlessly the bustling London city with scenic rural Pakistan, functioning almost as a quiet, yet poignant commentary on cultural differences.

Furthermore, the show employs a fast-paced narrative structure along with a visually effective technique of storytelling, which not only enhances the viewing experience but also ensures the audiences’ rapt engagement throughout. The music score is expertly woven into the narrative, adding an extra layer of suspense and intrigue to the mix.

Next of Kin, while essentially being a family drama, transcends the conventions of its genre to venture into a reflection of the harrowing reality of terrorism, highlighting the struggle of individual and collective identities, and the societal prejudices and preconceived ideas that surround us today.

In a larger context, Next of Kin is a profound exploration of the contradictions of a globalized world where old traditional norms fiercely clash with modernity and societal pressures. It is a compelling, sophisticated, and thought-provoking series, promising to captivate audiences till the very end.

This show offers a unique blend of family drama coupled with political realities, making it a series that has not just entertainment value, but also relevance and significance in the world of today. If you appreciate intricately plotted narratives, strong performances, and shows that make you think, Next of Kin is certainly worth the watch.