Is Joe Cole’s new BBC mystery thriller worth a watch?

As a seasoned viewer of thrillers and action-packed dramas, I must say that “Nightsleeper” has certainly piqued my interest. Having lived through countless late night train journeys myself, the setting immediately resonated with me, adding an extra layer of realism to this high-stakes tale.


In simpler terms, navigating London’s train system can be quite tense due to frequent delays and cancellations, along with the crowded conditions. Add a ‘hackjacking’ incident into the mix, and it sets the stage for a high-stress, action-packed thriller.

In the forthcoming BBC drama, “Nightsleeper“, the ordinary overnight train service, known as the “Heart of Britain”, becomes a high-stakes weapon when it’s hijacked by hackers, turning it into an unstoppable projectile.

In a praiseworthy manner, the watch stands out. The character Joe Cole portrays, Joe Roag, finds himself among the scant remaining travelers as the train departs, with its final destination controlled by cyber-terrorists in the gripping series Gangs of London.

The show effectively sets the tone right from the start by using a deliberate pace, as a single piano note echoes ominously throughout the expansive train station in Glasgow, adding to the overall sense of disquiet.

Is Joe Cole's new BBC mystery thriller worth a watch?

The fascinating beginning leads to a series of hints, suggesting a significant event is imminent. Not much time passes before these predicted occurrences unfold, creating an increasing sense of anticipation that races ahead before eventually finding a steady pace.

Oh dear, it seems like the Nightsleepers are skillfully playing a game of distraction, keeping us engaged with action, when in reality, the main storyline lies hidden just below the surface.

The initial episode concludes with an unexpected turn of events that leaves you leaning forward in amazement, questioning why you didn’t see it coming earlier. In hindsight, the hints were evident right from the start.

Again, misdirection.

Throughout the show, there’s a constant stream of events that quickly grab your focus and then just as swiftly draw it away to another happening, only to bring it back again. This isn’t haphazard; instead, it mirrors the deliberate pacing of the storyline. The rapid shifting mimics the chaotic atmosphere of the ‘hackjacking’ scenario, keeping you on your toes just like a real cyberattack would. You can never predict what will occur next, much like an actual cyberattack.

It is Abigail ‘Abby’ Aysgarth’s role as the Acting Technical Director at the National Cyber Security Centre to identify potential issues and prevent them from escalating into bigger problems.

Is Joe Cole's new BBC mystery thriller worth a watch?

Actress Alexandra Roach, who stars alongside Men Behaving Badly’s Martin Freeman in Bodies and Peaky Blinders, delivers an almost flawless dual performance with her co-star.

In comparable roles, they find themselves compelled to demonstrate their skills and worth to their respective companies due to various reasons. They need to collaborate effectively, both off the desk and on the rails, to tackle the issues at hand.

Despite Nightsleeper attempting to establish a rapport based on their shared experiences, there seems to be a need for adjustment in their interaction, as it lacks genuine authenticity.

In a different context than their professional bond, Cole’s portrayal of Joe makes you instinctively cheer for him, yet he harbors many secrets. His performance exudes a sense of reluctant heroism, suggesting a character whose noble actions are tainted by past transgressions.

Roach exhibits an equal level of excellence. Despite Abby publicly asserting her value, her inner uncertainties chip away at this claim. It’s fascinating to watch how she manages these feelings during a critical situation.

Is Joe Cole's new BBC mystery thriller worth a watch?

The collection of actors fits perfectly, with James Cosmo and Leah MacRae from “Game of Thrones” receiving special recognition. They exhibit a harsh, intense chemistry in their complex role as a strained father and daughter-in-law.

There were some instances that seemed a bit awkward, such as saying “hijacking is so 20th century,” yet these minor flaws can easily be dismissed due to the captivating speed of the storyline.

This work offers a captivating, yet not excessively profound, examination of human behavior and the decisions we take during stressful situations.

In simple terms, “Nightsleeper” is a captivating series that steadily escalates the suspense by presenting one surprising development after another, keeping the audience guessing who committed the crime in a classic whodunit style.

Is Joe Cole's new BBC mystery thriller worth a watch?

Nightsleeper will premiere on Sunday, September 15 at 6am on BBC iPlayer and 9pm on BBC One.

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2024-09-09 14:19

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