There will always be movies to stream or cinemas to visit, but TV will always have its place in the world of entertainment. TV has been and will always be around, but now with the new way of indulging it, ergo binge-watching, the choices are almost endless. Thankfully WOW is here to help with suggestions, and this time around the show of choice is the smash hit BBC One series The Bodyguard that made the cut.
Many will know him from Game of Thrones as Robb Stark, but with The Bodyguard Richard Madden was able to show his prestige as a leading man which is sure to set him on the path of super stardom. Madden plays David Budd, a war veteran who presently works for the London Metro Police service. The first episode sets this seven episode season up in epic fashion, where the beginning finds Budd on a train home only to then stumble upon a woman in the bathroom with a bomb strapped to herself and armed to blow. What happens from there is both textbook directing along with acting that can only be described as ‘riveting’, as Budd talks down the would be terrorist and resolves the situation without bloodshed. His act of heroism earns him a head position on the Home Secretary’s private security detail, setting the show on its course.
The Bodyguard is very well shot and directors John Strickland and Thomas Vincent ensure that there’s a healthy balance of detail, expression, action, and plenty of depth.
This show isn’t typical in its action or its storytelling. Both are present and are incorporated with substance, but the most fascinating part of it all is how the writers have deeply humanized the chief character. On the job, Budd is incredibly professional and by the book. Yet he’s not without his own faults, beliefs, or personal history, all of which the writing wisely addresses for the audience. It’s more than implied that Budd has an alcohol problem, which may have something to do with his split from his partner. He also seems to disagree with politically with the stance of his Home Secretary, which on the surface, could make things difficult, especially when charged with protecting her. These things are what create friction between his personal life and his professional life, which is relatable to almost everyone. Above all else, these layers are what makes the show worth the time.
The dynamic between Budd and Secretary Julia Montague makes for an interesting relationship. Though the Secretary is technically of higher authority, Budd’s overbearing personality and will to protect her with the upmost determination often leaves viewers wondering “who is really in charge?” as he is often making decisions regarding her safety which then overrules her way of doing things.
The Bodyguard is very well shot and directors John Strickland and Thomas Vincent ensure that there’s a healthy balance of detail, expression, action, and plenty of depth. Each episode compliments the other and the plot structure is just simple enough to move things along without cramming too much together. Though the first season is only seven episodes, the time allotted for character development, especially where it regards David Budd, was more than sufficient and leaves the door open for a potential follow up should the BBC One deem it so.
If all should go well, it would be a shame not see at least one more season of The Bodyguard. It certainly drew out an audience and the numbers and critical recognition are not in dispute. The only reason a show like this should NOT continue is if the production staff feels there’s nowhere to go from here. Either way, the first season is available on Netflix and in the event a second season isn’t in the cards, it’s good to know that the first season is available for perusal for as many times as desired.
