At Number 56 we give the thumbs down to any TV series that has too many episodes (dispensation granted to The Crown) and is too shaggy dog, so it is seldom you will read a recommendation here.
An adaptation of a novel by Graham Norton you’d not expect to float our boat. Actually you mightn’t expect him to write a novel. The TV version of Holding on ITV opens slowly like a bottle of vintage port and then can be savoured. Set in rural west Cork it is a quirky crime drama. Excellent cast, including Mrs Doyle from Father Ted, it’s a brilliant exposition of 21st century Ireland; mustn’t say more cos it’d spoil it. The plot doesn’t matter, the characters are central; it is an Irish Fargo, sort of. OK, I will chuck you a spoiler: the sex scene in episode two is not to be missed. Best of all, there are only four episodes but the ITV ads are a nuisance.
It’s a gem although I haven’t a clue why it’s called Holding but we have two more episodes to savour.
Otherwise, I am re-reading Patrick O’Brian, re-watching Toast of London and taking Bertie for walks occasionally.
We are watching the first episode and are fascinated that you not only enjoyed it but thought it a gem. Actually 45 minutes in the boss has switched it off. The only saving grace was that it was television as it had all the qualities of trendy theatre where we would have been stuck until the interval.