Undercover

Undercover is an intriguing TV drama that premiered on BBC One in 2016, expertly combining the genres of thriller and mystery into a captivating six-part series. With a suspenseful plot and superb performances, the show draws in viewers quickly and holds their attention throughout.

The show centres on the character of Maya Cobbina, a barrister who is poised to become the first woman of color to assume the position of Director of Public Prosecutions in England. Maya is played by the talented actress Sophie Okonedo, who delivers an emotional yet restrained performance, championing justice while also battling her personal struggles.

Expertly weaving a narrative through different timelines, Undercover takes viewers on a journey of past and present. Memories of 1996 intermingle with events from the present-day, including a case about a man, Rudy Jones, falsely accused of murder during the anti-racist protests in the U.S.

Adrian Lester, an equally formidable co-lead, stars as Nick Johnson, Maya's husband. However, underneath the façade of being a loving spouse and stellar father, Nick hides a secret. As viewers, we are drawn to his internal struggle as he battles against a past that threatens to shatter his idyllic life.

The creator of the show, Peter Moffat, seamlessly uses the dynamic between Maya and Nick to delve into universal themes of truth, trust, and loyalty, while successfully maintaining suspense. The narrative grapples with the idea that those closest to us, could have the most to hide. The writing imbues depth into each aspect of their relationship, which is a testament to Moffat’s storytelling prowess.

A sense of social justice is a persistent backdrop throughout Undercover, as it deals with prominent issues such as racism and wrongful conviction. Yet, these serious themes are fluently integrated into the narrative and never overwhelm the primary storyline. Moffat makes it evident that these elements are not mere accessories but integral to the plot, thus enabling a broader dialogue on social injustices.

Furthermore, the show exhibits a stellar supporting cast. Dennis Haysbert plays Rudy Jones with a magnetic presence, while Vincent Regan brings life to the corrupt cop, Dominic Carter. There are believable antagonists too, bringing darkness to the story and constantly challenging the righteousness of the protagonists, creating an engaging dynamic.

The cinematography also elevates the heart-gripping drama making each frame visually appealing. Scenes are often shrouded in shadow or cast in warm lighting, offering a visual contrast that echoes the balance of the narrative tone. The production team's excellent work in this aspect enhances the experience by various degrees, making it more immersive and overall an aesthetic treat.

In terms of writing, the show's dialogues are sharp and poetic. Moffat's background in law is apparent in his precise, yet empathetic rendering of legal proceedings. Each episode is a clever exploration of human nature across a rich tableau, where motivations are complex and the line between right and wrong is constantly blurred.

The soundtrack is another major strength of Undercover. The score enhances the suspense of the series with each note rhythmically tuned to the pulse of the series, intensifying the atmosphere of the scenes.

Another important factor behind the success of the show lies in Moffat's ability to plot each episode so that it ends on a high note. These cliff-hangers make it impossible for viewers to not continue with the next episode, ensuring the series is engaging as well as addictive.

In conclusion, Undercover strikes a fine balance between a complex narrative, character development, and careful exploration of sociopolitical issues, thus making it a standout piece of television. The performances are top-notch from a brilliant cast, and the story maintains a suspenseful pressure, while continually touching upon real and serious themes relevant in contemporary society. As a BBC One production, this series reflects the high quality of British drama and is surely a must-watch for those who enjoy a good, suspense-filled drama with a social message.