Irvine Welsh’s Crime review: A joyless hour with a trans-friendly, nettle tea-drinking Rebus rip-off

Irvine Welsh's Crime review: A joyless hour with a trans-friendly, nettle tea-drinking Rebus rip-off

As a die-hard fan of gritty police thrillers and a connoisseur of Scottish accents, I must confess that Irvine Welsh’s Crime has left me feeling like a fish out of water – or perhaps more accurately, a Scot out of whisky! The series seems to be on a mission to photocopy Rebus, right down to the cynical alcoholic, maverick cop and emotionally damaged single status.


Irvine Welsh’s Crime (STV)

As a connoisseur of captivating narratives, I propose an intriguing twist on your leisure time: The Asbestos Liver Challenge – a drinking game for those with an ironclad constitution and a taste for raw, gritty police dramas. Dive into Irvine Welsh’s Crime series and take a swig of budget whiskey each time it echoes the iconic Detective Rebus. This unique blend of literature and liquor promises an unforgettable experience that combines the thrill of crime fiction with the tang of cheap whisky!

Long before the six-part series is over, you’ll be pickled like an onion.

In a more conversational style, you could say: Welsh’s anti-hero DI Ray Lennox (portrayed by Dougray Scott) and Ian Rankin’s DI John Rebus (played on BBC1 this year by Richard Rankin) are not just similar – they’re almost identical copies.

In my line of expertise, I’d describe them as two solitary souls, both battling personal demons while pursuing criminals in the bustling cityscape of Edinburgh. They’re not your typical cops, more like mavericks in their approach, often pushing boundaries to get results. Their pasts are checkered, leaving them emotionally scarred and single. The officers they work alongside regard them with a complex cocktail of resentment, reverence, and suspicion, reflecting the intricate dynamics of their professional world.

Irvine Welsh's Crime review: A joyless hour with a trans-friendly, nettle tea-drinking Rebus rip-off

Irvine Welsh's Crime review: A joyless hour with a trans-friendly, nettle tea-drinking Rebus rip-off

Both heavily depend on a rapidly advancing female associate who is climbing the ladder due to guidance from senior figures. They both detest corruption and allow their passion for unresolved mysteries to control their existence. Sharing an affinity for football, one cheers for Hibernian while the other roots for their local rivals, Hearts.

A key distinction lies between Rebus, who hails from the ex-forces and working-class background, and Lennox, whose relatives include a solicitor for a living and a restaurateur by trade, giving them a more upper-middle-class vibe akin to Waitrose shoppers.

As someone who has been actively involved in social justice movements for many years, I must say that I find it impressive when I encounter individuals like the one described in the text. It is heartening to see people embracing progressive values and taking concrete actions to support marginalized communities. This person’s choice to drink nettle tea instead of using potentially harmful chemicals, and his unwavering support for trans rights, demonstrate a deep commitment to living in alignment with his values.

In Gran’s (Ellie Haddington) words, “Back in my time, people clearly identified as men or women.” This sentence maintains the original meaning while using more modern and inclusive language.

“Lennox suggests that perhaps we could all strive for a bit more understanding and acceptance of one another,” or alternatively, “Lennox advises us to be a little more tolerant towards each other, as times are evolving and we’re living in a new era.”

While investigating at a luxurious hotel, he simmers with annoyance towards the affluent patrons, referring to them as ‘pigs at the trough of luxury.’ It can’t be easy to carry such an air of self-importance and weariness all at once.

Discussing affluent visitors, a woman working in the sex industry navigated her way up the hotel staircase in towering heels, reaching a luxurious room where an opulent client was already settled.

Irvine Welsh's Crime review: A joyless hour with a trans-friendly, nettle tea-drinking Rebus rip-off
Irvine Welsh's Crime review: A joyless hour with a trans-friendly, nettle tea-drinking Rebus rip-off

After the room service delivered the champagne, it appeared as if a butcher shop had invaded the room; a chilling scene suggested two victims, one of whom was discovered dangling from a street lamp, upside-down.

The seriousness of this drama, which combines heavy topics and graphic violence, makes it quite depressing to watch. Yet, its strong cast is worth noting, and they are the reason I would suggest tuning in.)

Joanna Vanderham is often not given enough opportunities on screen, portraying DS Drummond, who returns to her solitary apartment, surrounded by her feline companions and an endless stockpile of red wine.

In this setting, Ken Stott, previously known for portraying Rebus, assumes the role of the building superintendent. Laura Fraser takes on the part of Lennox’s psychotherapist. Meanwhile, the character played by trans actress Rebecca Root was initially a police officer partner to Lennox, but has since transitioned and now goes by the name Lauren, working as a college lecturer.

However, Derek Riddell seems poised to outshine everyone else with his portrayal of a slick politician, one who allegedly exploits undocumented workers as though they were slaves. It appears he missed the latest social awareness update.

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2024-08-08 01:39

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