A new television series featuring Keeley Hawes and Paapa Essiedu is met with largely negative reviews, with multiple outlets focusing on concerns about the show’s script and overall execution. Critics describe the series as failing to deliver on its premise and leaving viewers “praying for a better script.”

All three sources single out the writing and storytelling approach, despite acknowledging that the drama carries notable talent. The reviews credit acclaimed screenwriter Jack Thorne, but argue that the material he delivers does not fully translate into an engaging story. While the articles reference the leads by name, the main thrust across outlets is that strong casting is not enough to overcome perceived shortcomings in dialogue, development, or pacing.

Taken together, the coverage is consistent in its assessment: the series is framed as a disappointing offering, and the critique concentrates more on the creative choices than on acting. The differing headlines use similar wording to convey the same overall conclusion, without presenting contrasting facts about the production’s plot specifics or reception.