The Good, the Bad, and the What Could Have Been - "Line of Duty" Season 1

Hi everyone, it's me again for another takeaway in one of the most popular TV series in British television. I mentioned in my previous post that I became interested in watching Alex Ryder upon seeing Vicky McClure as one of the casts, having seen her performance in the TV series Line of Duty. In saying that, I think it is fitting to feature Line of Duty in my The Good, The Bad, and the What Could Have Been series.

Introduction
"Line of Duty," a British police procedural series created by Jed Mercurio, first aired in 2012 and quickly established itself as a gripping exploration of corruption within the police force. Season 1 introduces viewers to AC-12, a controversial police anti-corruption unit, as they investigate Detective Chief Inspector Tony Gates, played by Lennie James, who is initially celebrated as a model officer but soon becomes embroiled in a complex case that tests the boundaries between legality and morality.

The People Behind
Jed Mercurio, known for his knack for creating intense, character-driven dramas such as "Bodies" and "Cardiac Arrest," serves as the mastermind behind "Line of Duty." His expertise in weaving intricate narratives with unexpected twists has made the series one of the most critically acclaimed British TV shows of the past decade. The series is produced by World Productions for the BBC, with Mercurio also contributing as a writer and occasionally directing episodes, ensuring a consistent vision and tone throughout the series.

The Cast

• Lennie James as DCI Tony Gates, whose stellar crime-solving record comes under scrutiny due to his potentially unethical methods.
• Martin Compston plays Detective Sergeant Steve Arnott, a transfer to AC-12 following a controversial incident in his previous assignment, who becomes a key figure in the investigation into Gates.
• Vicky McClure is Detective Constable Kate Fleming, an undercover specialist with AC-12 who plays a crucial role in the case against Gates.
• Adrian Dunbar portrays Superintendent Ted Hastings, the head of AC-12, whose moral compass guides the unit's pursuit of justice within the force.

The Plot
Season 1 focuses on the investigation into DCI Tony Gates by AC-12. Gates is initially investigated for "laddering" - the practice of adding charges to increase conviction rates - but the case quickly spirals into a more complex web of corruption involving murder, drug trafficking, and personal betrayal. The season adeptly balances the procedural aspects of the investigation with the personal dramas of the characters involved, creating a multifaceted narrative that keeps viewers engaged from start to finish.

The Good
"Line of Duty" is celebrated for its realistic portrayal of police work and its unflinching examination of corruption. The series stands out for its complex characters, moral ambiguity, and the tension between personal loyalty and professional duty. The performances, particularly by Lennie James and Martin Compston, are widely praised for their depth and authenticity. Additionally, the series' ability to deliver shocking twists and maintain a high level of suspense has made it a standout in the crime genre.

The Bad
Critics of the series have occasionally pointed out that the intricate plot can sometimes lead to confusion, with the numerous twists and turns requiring viewers' full attention to follow. Additionally, the heavy reliance on police jargon and procedural detail, while adding to the realism, may be off-putting for some viewers unfamiliar with the terminology.

The What Could Have Been
While Season 1 is widely regarded as a strong start to the series, some argue that further exploration of the personal lives and motivations of the AC-12 team members could have added even more depth to the narrative. Additionally, a more gradual reveal of Tony Gates' complexities might have provided a richer character study.

Conclusion
Season 1 of "Line of Duty" sets a high bar for police procedurals, offering a compelling look at the ethical dilemmas faced by those in law enforcement. With its strong writing, complex characters, and gripping plot, it's a must-watch for fans of the genre. Despite some minor criticisms, the series' ability to engage and surprise its audience makes it a standout show that has only grown in popularity with each subsequent season.

That's all folks, thank you for taking time to read my piece and I hope you got something from it.