A classic BBC crime drama from the 1980s is experiencing a remarkable resurgence in popularity, with viewers declaring it remains as gripping today as it was nearly four decades ago. Edge of Darkness, the six-part political thriller, has become a firm favourite for repeated viewing, with dedicated fans returning to its complex narrative time and again.
Audience Acclaim on Social Media
The series recently sparked fervent discussion on platforms like Reddit, where television enthusiasts debated the finest BBC dramas. While modern hits such as Line of Duty were frequently mentioned, Edge of Darkness consistently emerged as a standout. One viewer declared it "fantastic," noting they had watched it "a number of times." Another echoed this sentiment, calling the show "superb" and highly recommending the Blu-ray release.
Further praise flooded in, with one fan labelling it a "top tier drama" featuring an "outstanding lead performance," and cementing its status as "one of the true greats of British TV." The consensus is clear: the series has aged brilliantly. As one devotee put it, the show is "still just as gripping as it was," a sentiment confirmed by those who have rewatched it with family years later and found it lost none of its power.
What Makes Edge of Darkness So Compelling?
For the uninitiated, Edge of Darkness is a landmark British television drama. The original six episodes, each between 50 and 55 minutes long, first aired on BBC2 in late 1985. Its impact was immediate, leading to a swift rebroadcast on BBC1. The series masterfully blends a personal crime story with high-stakes political intrigue.
The plot follows Ronald Craven, a widowed police detective portrayed by the late Bob Peck. His world is shattered when his activist daughter, Emma (Joanne Whalley), is brutally murdered. What begins as a personal quest for justice rapidly descends into a labyrinthine investigation of governmental and corporate corruption, centred on nuclear espionage. Set against the backdrop of Yorkshire, Craven's journey pits him against sinister forces that threaten global security.
A Lasting Television Legacy
The show's enduring appeal is a testament to its quality. It swept numerous awards following its original broadcast and has maintained a prestigious reputation ever since. Its availability for streaming on BBC iPlayer has introduced this classic to new generations, while its thematic relevance concerning power, conspiracy, and paternal grief continues to resonate deeply.
This persistent acclaim explains why, almost 40 years on, viewers are still discovering and revisiting Edge of Darkness. It stands not merely as a relic of its time but as a powerfully crafted drama that continues to captivate, proving that truly superb storytelling is indeed timeless.
