The Tower, a British crime drama streaming for free on ITVX, has garnered a perfect 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes and is being hailed as the ideal watch for viewers missing Line of Duty. The series, adapted from Kate London's Metropolitan Police novels by Patrick Harbinson, known for Homeland and 24, has captivated audiences with its gripping narrative and stellar performances.
Plot and Cast
The series centers on Detective Sarah Collins, played by Gemma Whelan, best known for her role as Yara Greyjoy in Game of Thrones. The official plot states: 'After a long-serving cop and a teenage girl fall to their deaths from a London tower block, Detective Sarah Collins investigates the dark heart of policing.' Whelan leads a supporting cast including Tahirah Sharif, Jimmy Akingbola, Emmett J. Scanlan, Lola Elsokari, Nick Holder, Karl Davies, and Nabil Elouahabi.
Critical and Audience Reception
Critics have praised the series, with one review noting: 'Polished in every way — the acting, dialogue and complicated ethical quandaries — this crackerjack series is super smart.' Another critic wrote: 'The show is very sobering and builds to its climaxes amazingly and fulfilling.' Audiences have also been effusive, with one IMDB user stating: 'Up there with the best of British crime drama... a mix of Unforgotten meets Line of Duty with quality storyline, depth of characters and a story thread that makes sense.' Another viewer added: 'This series is excellent. It is hard to stop watching and go to bed when I need to.'
Production and Availability
The Tower premiered in November 2021 and spans three seasons. Season one consists of three episodes directed by Jim Loach, season two has four episodes directed by Faye Gilbert, and season three has four episodes directed by Rene van Pannevis. Although set in southeast London, the series was primarily filmed in Manchester and Liverpool. The show is available to stream for free on ITVX or on Disney+ with a subscription.
