Series 9 Episode 5 Discussion

[HarryPearceSpy]

I enjoyed this episode, especially the twist with Anna at the end. I also thought that Max Brown's acting was really good. He brings much depth to Dmitri's character. (And I think Dmitri's character is cool too).

Lucas did great as section chief. However, it seems like he's losing his cool, especially with all that has been going on in his 'personal'/'old' life.

As for Beth, I loved seeing her speak Spanish (sounded good to me, but then again I don't know that much Spanish haha) and escape. Man, her thigh muscles are strong!

And oh yeah, Ruth was pretty awesome too- as always. One of the smartest on the show and always has good insight (e.g. with finding out how that sniper was going to take that difficult shot).

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(21-10-2010 01:50 PM)A Cousin Wrote:  I never feel pandered to with Spooks. That's part of the reason I like it so much. I like the criticism.

If it was meant to pander to an American audience, my question is what American audience? We may seem more plentiful than ever before, but we matter not at all in ratings that would determine the ongoing status of the show much less over all share of DVD sales. The stations that runs it in the US, PBS, only holds about 15% of the US TV viewing population. Even if every PBS viewing American is watching MI5/Spooks on a regular basis, most stations have only made through S6, if they are lucky. Nothing panders to US viewers in that series! The rest of us have to scurry around like "mice" (pun intended ) snatching at it where we can get it.

That's one of the reasons why I find Spooks unique (when compared to other shows I watch in the US)- it has its own perspective and feel. I don't always agree with its portrayal of Americans, but I find that it adds to the show's uniqueness overall.

You're right that U.S. viewership for Spooks makes up very small amount of total viewership. I don't think there is a large viewing pop. (when compared to shows like CSI, Criminal Minds, NCIS, etc) for Spooks in the U.S. Yes, there are quite a few American fans like you and I, but I agree that its not large enough to make a significant impact on how the show is/its status. Plus, I also agree that this show doesn't pander to American viewers. Its portrayal of American characters has been very negative. I think the only American character in the show that has had a somewhat (though still not very) positive portrayal is Christine Dale...but now I'm getting off topic, so I'll stop here.