Lots of weak characters in this, especially the police. I felt the drama concentrated too much on the main actor who wasn't very good. The supporting cast, the mother, son and drug dealer saved it from totally bombing. This was a good idea but didn't quite gel for me. I watched all of the episodes but the ending was very predictable. There was just something missing from the start.
45 Reviews
Great idea for a series, the tone was a bit uneven but a strong drama
JRB-NorthernSoul18 July 2022
The premise is strong and Jodie's a character we can definitely root for but she was given too much to do on her own in the opener. The cop assigned to her wasn't convincing though.
I liked it for the most part and its good to see credible stories about life on the estate, so congrats for that. Production values were generally OK but soundtrack was a bit OTT.
It did enough to keep me watching all the way through, four episodes was just the right length and it had a satisfying ending. Better than most recent Channel 5 dramas.
I liked it for the most part and its good to see credible stories about life on the estate, so congrats for that. Production values were generally OK but soundtrack was a bit OTT.
It did enough to keep me watching all the way through, four episodes was just the right length and it had a satisfying ending. Better than most recent Channel 5 dramas.
Some big plot holes
nooky4725 July 2022
Warning: Spoilers
Ok so as a drama it's watchae, lead actress is very good, hampered if by the silly plot and glitches.
1/ I haven't got to episode 4 yet but the family liason officer is clearly in on it
2/all she witnessed was a guy in a grey hoodie with his back to her and a guy with a beard and a leather jacket kinda pushing him along, no knife in hand - SHE DID NOT WITNESS ANY CRIME
3/ why wouldnt the lads on the estate just stab her or kill her, the continued intimidation makes no sense and completely counter productive. In real life she would have been killed long ago
4/ the police do nothing in this, she is intimidated and threatened several times. Police procedure would be to secure the safety of the witness, not leave her alone on the estate. It's actually a massive issue and reality would have made this a very different series
I'm all for modern dramas like this but it's so annyong when the writing does not take into account how real life works.
1/ I haven't got to episode 4 yet but the family liason officer is clearly in on it
2/all she witnessed was a guy in a grey hoodie with his back to her and a guy with a beard and a leather jacket kinda pushing him along, no knife in hand - SHE DID NOT WITNESS ANY CRIME
3/ why wouldnt the lads on the estate just stab her or kill her, the continued intimidation makes no sense and completely counter productive. In real life she would have been killed long ago
4/ the police do nothing in this, she is intimidated and threatened several times. Police procedure would be to secure the safety of the witness, not leave her alone on the estate. It's actually a massive issue and reality would have made this a very different series
I'm all for modern dramas like this but it's so annyong when the writing does not take into account how real life works.
Disjointment Overshadows the Good
zorroaca10 August 2022
I gave it a 6 but it's more a 5.7. Too many moments where actions go against good or rational judgement. Overall the director was asleep at the wheel. Also... there are more "pie in the sky" situations than necessary. All this said... it is watchable.
Why is this showing as one episode
katythomason19 August 2023
So the brilliant Nina is showing as being in only one of the 4 episodes ?? I'm on episode three and she's been IN EVERY EPISODE????
Why then is she showing as just being in one episode?
I'm really enjoying this series, and I can't understand all the negative comments for it - so far I'm really gripped.
I think the ending is going to be fairly easy to guess - but I could be wrong !!
It's gripping, edge of your seat type of series, the main actress is outstanding as is the young policeman assigned to be Jodie's point of contact .
I'd definitely give this a much higher score than 1-2. It's very gripping.
Why then is she showing as just being in one episode?
I'm really enjoying this series, and I can't understand all the negative comments for it - so far I'm really gripped.
I think the ending is going to be fairly easy to guess - but I could be wrong !!
It's gripping, edge of your seat type of series, the main actress is outstanding as is the young policeman assigned to be Jodie's point of contact .
I'd definitely give this a much higher score than 1-2. It's very gripping.
Tosh but entertaining.
johnlett26 July 2022
Not realistic
juliebowlerr4 August 2022
The storyline is ok, but surely the police wouldn't leave their only witness (a single mother living on her own in the middle of the estate) without putting her into witness protection? She's still walking around as if everything is normal? Wide open to a drive by shooting or random stabbing maybe? Laughable 😂 I stopped watching at the beginning of episode 2 when they started the DIY on her flat! 🙄
A great series.
Sleepin_Dragon27 July 2022
Hairdresser Jodie is brave enough to give evidence when she sees a crime committed, however her life is made unbearable by gang members, she faces a campaign of intimidation and threats.
Was this perhaps the most accomplished standalone drama from Channel five so far? They've been a bit hit and miss, this truly was a hit.
A cracking four part series, well paced, dramatic, ultimately satisfying. It's a mix of thriller, mystery and horror, the earlier episodes really do unnerve you, you wonder if they'd put people off coming forward.
Part three is the highlight I thought, an incredible, powerful two hander for the most part, showcasing some true acting talent.
I thought the acting was terrific, great to see Nina Touasaint-White having a lead role, well deserved, real talent, I first remember her from an episode of Doctor Who. Ruaridh Mollica, who played Po, I thought was a revelation.
I always find it interesting with these dramas to see where they were filmed, it's assumed it's London, but this was filmed in Ireland.
Cracking series, 9/10.
Was this perhaps the most accomplished standalone drama from Channel five so far? They've been a bit hit and miss, this truly was a hit.
A cracking four part series, well paced, dramatic, ultimately satisfying. It's a mix of thriller, mystery and horror, the earlier episodes really do unnerve you, you wonder if they'd put people off coming forward.
Part three is the highlight I thought, an incredible, powerful two hander for the most part, showcasing some true acting talent.
I thought the acting was terrific, great to see Nina Touasaint-White having a lead role, well deserved, real talent, I first remember her from an episode of Doctor Who. Ruaridh Mollica, who played Po, I thought was a revelation.
I always find it interesting with these dramas to see where they were filmed, it's assumed it's London, but this was filmed in Ireland.
Cracking series, 9/10.
A lot better than expected
craig-snell-151-14942729 July 2022
Unfortunately most channel 5 dramas are no where the quality of what you find on other 'terrestrial' stations. Witness Number 3 really changes that, it was very well acted, and contained quite a few surprises when you were certain you knew what was going to happen plot wise.
Yes there were plot holes, yes the main character acted incredibly stupid at times and made some poor life choices, but don't we all sometimes.
If this was on the BBC or ITV, I probably would not have scored it so highly but for channel 5 it was definitely one of their best deliveries
Well done channel 5, one more thing, just before 'endgame' you will be totally certain that you have seen this trope before and you know how it will end, it's been done countless times in big budget Hollywood movies and series.
Nope, is all I will say.
Yes there were plot holes, yes the main character acted incredibly stupid at times and made some poor life choices, but don't we all sometimes.
If this was on the BBC or ITV, I probably would not have scored it so highly but for channel 5 it was definitely one of their best deliveries
Well done channel 5, one more thing, just before 'endgame' you will be totally certain that you have seen this trope before and you know how it will end, it's been done countless times in big budget Hollywood movies and series.
Nope, is all I will say.
Watchable
cthetrancedone31 July 2022
The first episode was tense especially the ending.
The remaining 3 episodes just plod on with some good scenes. It's the lead character that completely ruins the show, she's not convincing at all and there's just nothing about her.
A rarity for these series is that there's a satisfactory ending.
The wooden police cast were terrible and i couldn't have cared less about their role in the story towards the end. So what?
No shocks or twists here, it's just watchable for the tense scenes when this woman is up against the gang.
The remaining 3 episodes just plod on with some good scenes. It's the lead character that completely ruins the show, she's not convincing at all and there's just nothing about her.
A rarity for these series is that there's a satisfactory ending.
The wooden police cast were terrible and i couldn't have cared less about their role in the story towards the end. So what?
No shocks or twists here, it's just watchable for the tense scenes when this woman is up against the gang.
Intense!
jennyjwoodward-8977922 July 2022
I can't understand the low reviews at all! I wasn't expecting much from Channel 5 to be honest, but thought I'd give this one a go. Was drawn in from the first episode and slowly, the fear sets in! This series was intense... and very well acted by Nina especially.
First episode excellent.. then..meh..
neilos_131 July 2023
Warning: Spoilers
I caught up with this on Netflix, The first episode was really good, the acting was superb and you genuinely got a tingle down your spine.
However from there on in, it had genuine plot holes and a twist you could spot from a mile off.
The lead detective was probably the worst acting I've seen for a while. Little to no emotion at all.
It could have been so much better than it was, I mean I get what the writer was trying to portray, but Po wasn't believable from episode 3 onwards.
The lead actress carried the show on her shoulders. There were good scenes in all episodes, but overall I just found it a bit predictable and unbelievable in the end.
However from there on in, it had genuine plot holes and a twist you could spot from a mile off.
The lead detective was probably the worst acting I've seen for a while. Little to no emotion at all.
It could have been so much better than it was, I mean I get what the writer was trying to portray, but Po wasn't believable from episode 3 onwards.
The lead actress carried the show on her shoulders. There were good scenes in all episodes, but overall I just found it a bit predictable and unbelievable in the end.
Key witness?
ollster-9392724 July 2022
Warning: Spoilers
Trailer promised a show which was hardly original - key witness wants to do right thing and is subjected to evil intimidation- but the story fell apart quickly. We are expected to believe she is the key witness to a murder and the police desperately need her to get a prosecution.
The problem is she didn't really see much. She caught a brief glimpse of the suspect walking with a man whose face she never saw. She didn't see a weapon, she didn't see any actual crime being committed.
Why the police would think she was a key witness for the prosecution, in fact essential to getting a conviction is incredible. The most they could possibly say is that she caught a glimpse of the suspect walking past with an unidentified man wearing a hoodie similar to a man who subsequently turned up murdered. Hardly proof beyond reasonable doubt.
Once this became evident, there wasn't really any point continuing to watch it.
The problem is she didn't really see much. She caught a brief glimpse of the suspect walking with a man whose face she never saw. She didn't see a weapon, she didn't see any actual crime being committed.
Why the police would think she was a key witness for the prosecution, in fact essential to getting a conviction is incredible. The most they could possibly say is that she caught a glimpse of the suspect walking past with an unidentified man wearing a hoodie similar to a man who subsequently turned up murdered. Hardly proof beyond reasonable doubt.
Once this became evident, there wasn't really any point continuing to watch it.
It was good... but...
karateram2 September 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Honestly, I enjoyed this series. There were some good performances, and the background score was compelling. I just have a few questions:
1. When the police build a "STRONG ROOM" for Jodie anticipating risk, why didn't they keep a mobile phone in the room for emergency situation?
2. (More of an opinion) The guy who played "Po' was good but I felt he didn't have a solid foundation to what and how he had became what he became (except for one scene that was not satisfactory enough). Maybe they could have gone with one more episode focusing on him.
3. As much as Jodie's character seemed so perfect in the beginning with all those witness statements and wanting-to-do-the-right-thing attitude, how come she become so vulnerable in the forthcoming episodes, frightened and weak? Doesn't make sense!
Other than this, I think it was a well made thriller!
1. When the police build a "STRONG ROOM" for Jodie anticipating risk, why didn't they keep a mobile phone in the room for emergency situation?
2. (More of an opinion) The guy who played "Po' was good but I felt he didn't have a solid foundation to what and how he had became what he became (except for one scene that was not satisfactory enough). Maybe they could have gone with one more episode focusing on him.
3. As much as Jodie's character seemed so perfect in the beginning with all those witness statements and wanting-to-do-the-right-thing attitude, how come she become so vulnerable in the forthcoming episodes, frightened and weak? Doesn't make sense!
Other than this, I think it was a well made thriller!
Blimey mate!
trout30316 August 2023
This could have been good but the flight choreographer took the night off. We were heading for something special in episode three, something faintly reminiscent of the kitchen scene from 'A Perfect Murder'. The build up was good, but then the script writer decided to payout his own story, presenting a deep and meaningful conversation rather than ferocious realism as a fitting confrontational climax to a crafted suspense. Apparently deadly street hardened lost souls have second thoughts when their dear old mum gets a mention. Gosh, such easily conveyed sympathy saves the evening and what could have been the best scene.
Excellent Drama
tcrompton22 July 2022
Can't understand the poor ratings. Excellent drama. Took my breath away at times. A very thought provoking drama which left me feeling quite overwhelmed by what was happening to this family. Personally I thought the acting was great. After some of the appalling dramas we have been presented with, this for me was well worth watching.
Unconvincing
turbotrace-6022019 July 2022
Warning: Spoilers
Witness intimidation. A single mum who's been good to and for the estate she lives on, a chance glance out of the window and her life becomes a nightmare.
Police are powerless to help - we all know about witness protection. The premise seems to be she must fight on her own which is ridiculous! A shady policeman assigned as her liaison who knows her - conflict of interest anyone?!
Add to that, the gang intimidating her look like they've come straight from shooting The Purge and its sequels which were far more scary.
Nina Toussaint-White does her best, but the story lacks pace and you can see what's going to happen from a mile off!
I managed one episode.
Police are powerless to help - we all know about witness protection. The premise seems to be she must fight on her own which is ridiculous! A shady policeman assigned as her liaison who knows her - conflict of interest anyone?!
Add to that, the gang intimidating her look like they've come straight from shooting The Purge and its sequels which were far more scary.
Nina Toussaint-White does her best, but the story lacks pace and you can see what's going to happen from a mile off!
I managed one episode.
Reasonable thriller
karenblade23 July 2022
Intellectual Gangrene
lmgswain019 January 2023
The synopsis is the most intriguing aspect of this story.
Interesting idea, a good insight into gang influence in the ghettos of London.
It's a two episode story crammed into four episodes of didactic, sluggish, and numbing dialogue while pretending to be a social commentary.
Quite predictable with the usual suspects of red herrings, including police, gang members, and family angst-all of which don't offer any surprises and new takes on old cliches.
The main character's actions are "Oh-my-God" events-how the Hell could she not see this or know that or be so naive?
Ending was just as predictable and mundane.
This tale moves along as fast as a herd of tutors headed to fest upon wilted lettuce.
Interesting idea, a good insight into gang influence in the ghettos of London.
It's a two episode story crammed into four episodes of didactic, sluggish, and numbing dialogue while pretending to be a social commentary.
Quite predictable with the usual suspects of red herrings, including police, gang members, and family angst-all of which don't offer any surprises and new takes on old cliches.
The main character's actions are "Oh-my-God" events-how the Hell could she not see this or know that or be so naive?
Ending was just as predictable and mundane.
This tale moves along as fast as a herd of tutors headed to fest upon wilted lettuce.
Something a bit different
bettyboopt22 July 2022
I really enjoyed this, the pacing was slow in parts but I thought it added to the suspense. It was definitely the best Channel 5 drama I've seen (appreciate this doesn't count for much!). It was very atmospheric and I thought the main antagonist was excellent and I liked how his motives were explored without giving anything away. Personally I was really happy with the ending!
Slow, boring, predictable and unbelievable.
philmacu13 December 2022
This show is a waste of Video storage space. It is so so so unrealistic that you are constantly going what! Also it is so obvious at the end of episode 1 who are in league with the villains!
It's interesting to see parts of Dublin pretending to be London but that's about the most positive thing that I can say about it.
By the start of episode 3 I was just waing for this rubbish to end.
The detective with the Dublin accent is awful, she was also terrible in a similar episodic series by the same director called Kin, avoid that also.
The portrayal of the gang members is hilarious this would have worked much better as a comedy.
It's interesting to see parts of Dublin pretending to be London but that's about the most positive thing that I can say about it.
By the start of episode 3 I was just waing for this rubbish to end.
The detective with the Dublin accent is awful, she was also terrible in a similar episodic series by the same director called Kin, avoid that also.
The portrayal of the gang members is hilarious this would have worked much better as a comedy.
Tense, gripping drama let down a little by the acting
camdentownie1322 July 2022
The soundtrack and production values, from locations to lighting to camera angles even the hoodie costumes, are all excellent. They build a modern horror atmosphere to mix with the thriller aspect. It's just that the acting is a little stilited. It's still one of the best series I've seen from C5 and very watchable. Try to catch it.
Witless 3
orkneyislander19 October 2022
Warning: Spoilers
The first episode started off well enough but by episodes 3 and 4 the deterioration had set in. So many plot holes and unrealistic scenarios. I'd hardly think the police would have been so totally inept at protecting their 'star witness'. Crowds of villains frequently standing staring at her shop to intimidate her - the police could have grabbed the lot in one fell swoop if they'd actually been 'protecting' her.
Then her would be killer wandering about unseen in the small apartment in an estate high rise block as if it were a many roomed mansion. And making absolutely no attempt at ever concealing fingerprints or DNA.
The unrealistic conversation between the intended victim and the would be killer was cringeworthy. I was almost hoping he'd get it over with and stab her before she bored him and any viewers to death.
Then she clocks him once with a small plastic torch that puts him out for the count. Hit men ain't what they used to be.
Very predictable ending with too much drawn out psycho-babble. Too much focus on the main actress. Not recommended.
Then her would be killer wandering about unseen in the small apartment in an estate high rise block as if it were a many roomed mansion. And making absolutely no attempt at ever concealing fingerprints or DNA.
The unrealistic conversation between the intended victim and the would be killer was cringeworthy. I was almost hoping he'd get it over with and stab her before she bored him and any viewers to death.
Then she clocks him once with a small plastic torch that puts him out for the count. Hit men ain't what they used to be.
Very predictable ending with too much drawn out psycho-babble. Too much focus on the main actress. Not recommended.
Just OK
the_nephilim7122 July 2022
It starts off really strong but it seems like a train wreck as the first episode winds down. The lead actress is good but some of the other acting is questionable. The tone is very uneven. I don't think I'll finish the show.
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