Movies

Is James Norton’s ITV drama Playing Nice worth watching?

BBG News

As an avid gamer of the emotional rollercoaster rides that are British dramas, I can confidently say that Playing Nice has taken my obsession to new heights (or depths, depending on how you look at it). This show is a masterclass in tension-building and character development.

The series titled “Playing Nice” has a knack for getting stuck in your thoughts in a maddening, utterly captivating manner, making it hard to resist.

James Norton’s gripping drama unfolds around two sets of parents – Pete Riley (played by Norton himself) and his partner Maddie Wilson (portrayed by Niamh Algar), as well as Miles (James McArdle) and Lucy Lambert (Jessica Brown Findlay). The story revolves around the devastating realization these couples face, which no parent would wish upon anyone: their 3-year-old sons, Theo and David, were unknowingly swapped at birth.

Initially, the arrangement between Maddie and Pete seemed friendly regarding their shared upbringing of the boys. However, as time passed, they grew increasingly suspicious that the Lambert’s actions were underhanded, eventually discovering that they had been secretly manipulating events to seize custody of both sons.

From the moment the Lambert family intertwined with Pete, Maddie, and Theo, a sly game filled with deception and control has been in play. However, the innocent nature of the Lamberts, particularly Pete who is more inclined to kindness than Maddie’s suspicion, poses a risk – it could strip them not only of their son but also the lives they have carefully constructed.

The production delves into the characteristics of being overly accommodating, pondering at what point being agreeable turns harmful.

It can be quite intriguing that the audience figures out the ‘when’ well ahead of Pete’s realization, which adds to the enjoyable nature of “Playing Nice“, making it a drama that leaves you wanting to yell at the screen.

Screenwriter Grace Ofori-Attah’s script is cleverly penned and tight, with no words wasted.

The story effectively draws viewers in with its personal look into their lives, but it’s the exceptional performances by the main actors that make us truly feel the characters’ suffering, as they deliver powerful and convincing portrayals.

Moving from the energetic yet pliable boys situated behind Theo and David, whose personalities resemble shy and spirited youngsters, to their conflict-ridden parents, there’s no character lacking depth.

Norton’s Pete and Algar’s Maddie exhibit intense feelings and fervor, constantly displaying their emotions openly.

I find myself marveling at the striking juxtaposition between the chilly, disciplined, and calculated demeanor of the Lambert team, led by the commanding figure of Miles.

His penchant for presenting as the good guy while deception is at play beneath the surface is the basis for the tension and McArdle is disturbingly good at it.

In a simpler and more conversational style: Downton Abbey’s character, Brown Findlay, seems to embody the ‘stand by your man’ attitude, but there’s a depth to her that isn’t immediately apparent. The subtle ways she communicates with just a few words and tiny facial expressions are truly remarkable.

The four-episode limited series seems extraordinarily immersive, stretching out like a prolonged experience rather than its actual length. This is due to the poignant emotional journey it presents, which unfolds at an engaging pace. The trials faced by the families are so intense they seem almost unbearable, drawing viewers in and increasing their interest.

In a different phrasing, the story titled “Playing Nice” may not introduce novel concepts, but its unique creative elements (like Maddie’s bond with water) and the ensemble cast assembled for this fresh retelling of an age-old tale offer a refreshing, original experience. For characters like Maddie, Pete, Miles, and Lucy, it truly is unexplored terrain, raw and untouched.

The performance takes you by surprise, as it skillfully weaves an unexpected twist into its plot, which only becomes clear at the end.

In the end, anticipate a captivating, frustratingly thrilling viewing experience where the suspense never ceases, consistently delivering one tense moment after another, keeping you fully engrossed and emotionally involved.

The new series “Playing Nice” premieres this coming Sunday, January 5th, at 9 PM, both on ITV and ITVX. From then on, episodes will be shown every Sunday and Monday at 9 PM on ITV. Additionally, the entire series will be available to stream on ITVX starting January 5th.

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2024-12-27 10:51

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