See-Saw Films for Apple TV
See-Saw Films’ espionage drama about a group of misfit spies and their misanthropic boss, played by Gary Oldman, returned for series five to widespread critical acclaim.
The show is based on a series of award-winning books by Mick Herron, which became word-of-mouth hits, much like the TV adaptation.
In this latest instalment, the team must figure out what’s behind a series of increasingly bizarre events sweeping London – and whether there’s anything suspicious about resident tech nerd Roddy Ho’s glamorous new girlfriend.
With layered ambitious storytelling and well-drawn characters that keep audiences coming back for more, the latest instalment a worthy winner for judges.
“Despite this being the show’s 5th series, it still delivered to an extremely high level which continues to draw you into the mayhem and madness of this world,” said one judge. “It’s a wonderfully characterful, uniquely-toned series which still feel engaging and joyful after multiple outings.”
Another agreed, adding: “Even after all this time it’s still a joy to join the adventures of this dysfunctional gang – the show stays at the top of its game through exceptional and compelling storytelling.”
One judge praised the show’s dark humour and the way that “each of these deeply flawed characters were depicted with an empathy and nuance which offered some hope of redemption”.
SHORTLISTED
All Creatures Great and Small
Playground Television for 5
Set in 1940s Yorkshire, Playground Television’s much-loved historical drama offers a blend of escapism and strong regional representation. Despite a Band 2 budget, the series delivers on production value, including the highly specialised training of farm and small animals to deliver action story on command.
Malpractice
World Productions for ITV1
World Production’s medical thriller shines a bold and timely light on postpartum psychosis. Director Anthony Philipson’s documentary background gives series two a visceral feel as it explores the world of psychiatry and obstetrics. On and off-screen advisors infuse the surgical scenes with authenticity and ground the drama in truth.
Showtrial
World Productions for BBC
Series two of World Production’s complex legal drama once again casts the audience as jury, raising questions around climate activism, mental health, ‘wokeness’, and the justice system. The editorial team worked alongside charity Mind to ensure depictions of grief and PTSD were sensitive and accurate, receiving positive feedback.
Wolf Hall: The Mirror and the Light
Playground & Company Pictures, Masterpiece in assoc Banijay Rights Limited for BBC
Ten years after the success of its series debut, Playgound & Company Pictures’ adaptation of Hilary Mantel’s trilogy set out to maintain an authentic depiction of the Tudor period. The show was shot entirely on location, often in National Trust properties, and features a returning cast of now-household names.
Y Golau: Dŵr
The Light, Y Golau Cyf, Triongl & Channel 4 for S4C
The second series of Y Golau: Dŵr continues to explore the complexities of justice, memory, and community. Beautiful cinematography and an evocative score create a high production value. The series tackles pertinent social issues whilst celebrating Welsh culture and language, providing a platform for Welsh talent and storytelling.
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