The BBC drama The Cage, starring Sheridan Smith, has earned a rare perfect 100% Rotten Tomatoes score, with critics and fans alike praising it as a “TV triumph” and a “masterpiece.”
The series follows Leanne (Smith), a single mother working as a cashier running the cage at the Envoy Casino, and Matty (Michael Socha), a casino manager battling a crippling gambling addiction. Directed by Shameless’ Tony Schumacher, the show has made a quiet but significant splash with those who gave it a go.
The pair discover that each of them has been secretly taking cash from the establishment, landing them in hot water as they face off with gangsters, police and each other.
Critical and fan praise
The series has a rare perfect 100% Rotten Tomatoes score, and a number of fans have sung its praises. The Guardian’s Lucy Mangan called it a “TV triumph” that encapsulates the state of the nation in a deeply moving way.
One Rotten Tomatoes reviewer wrote: “Compulsive viewing. A cracking script that manages to be both amusing and disturbing and some fine performances, especially from the two leads. Will deserve to be in the BAFTA nominations when the time comes.”
Andrew Anthony wrote: “It’s rare today to see a portrayal of working people that isn’t patronising or freighted with tick-box political fashions, from beneath which the characters struggle to emerge. But this is British drama at its best.”
Viewer reactions
One IMDb reviewer added: “We absolutely loved this! Engaging believable characters that draw you in. I can't understand negative reviews here. The acting is superb and I was totally absorbed.”
“It's a dark world that is explored in this series. One of which I'd never want to experience but I became totally involved with and cared about most of the main characters. Also the child actors were also very good and believable. Well shot and really worth watching in my opinion,” another said.
Another added: “Ignore the one star reviews this was a well written show with some great acting from Sheridan smith and Michael socha. The series is intense from the get go and is not at all predictable there is enough humor to keep everyone engaged. Those who engaged Tonys other work the responder will love this.”
The series was not renewed for a second season. The Cage is now available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
