Holliday Grainger Embraces Dystopian Future in The Capture's Third Series
Hit techno-conspiracy drama The Capture makes a chilling comeback with a gripping opening sequence at Heathrow Terminal 5. In the show's third series, a hostile Russian asset uses real-time image manipulation and deepfake avatars to bypass border controls, highlighting the terrifying potential of advanced technology. Star Holliday Grainger, who plays DCI Rachel Carey, describes the series as "a longform Black Mirror," emphasizing its relevance in an era dominated by AI.
AI and Real-World Parallels: A Terrifying Convergence
Grainger reveals that creator Ben Chanan's extensive research, involving advisers from the Met, counter-terrorism, and military consultants, grounds the show in reality. "The chill is the bluntness with which they say it," she notes, referring to off-the-record insights into day-to-day operations involving weapons of mass destruction and global threats. With the White House posting AI images on social media, fact and fiction blur, making the show's themes more timely than ever.
"Things are developing at such an astonishing speed that it surprises people," Grainger explains. She expresses concern over the rapid pace of AI progress and lack of regulation, citing platforms like TikTok and Instagram as examples of everyday tech with sinister potential. While AI could be brilliant if used correctly, she warns of the wealth of misinformation it could learn from and spread, fueling her nervousness about the future.
Firearms Training and Stuntwork: Preparing for Action
In the new series, Grainger's character, now acting commander of the Metropolitan police's Counter Terrorism Command, carries a gun for the first time. To prepare, Grainger undertook a two-day firearms training course, learning differences between military and police handling techniques. "I'm fully prepared for our dystopian future now!" she jokes, highlighting the physicality of action scenes that add energy to the cerebral show.
Grainger also discusses performing her own stunts, including a challenging one-shot sequence inside a van. "I only got one little injury from it," she says, emphasizing her love for the physical aspects of filming. These moments contrast with Carey's intellectual challenges, showcasing the character's multifaceted role.
Character Insights and Cultural Impact
DCI Rachel Carey, nicknamed "fast-track princess," is portrayed as spiky and plain-speaking, a departure from likable female leads. Grainger finds this refreshing, noting that Carey's lack of deep backstory and social struggles make her compelling. "She's sacrificed a lot for the job," Grainger observes, adding that the character's baller walk and tailor-made coat have become iconic, with real-life police officers even imitating TV cop styles.
The series also tackles topical issues like small boats, anti-immigration activists, and threats from Russia, with Grainger praising Chanan's uncanny knack for predicting real-world events. Conversations about "the establishment boys' club" resonate amid recent scandals, highlighting the slow pace of societal change.
Career Reflections and Future Projects
Beyond The Capture, Grainger is known for her role as Robin Ellacott in the BBC's Strike series, currently filming its seventh instalment. She reflects on her career stages, from northern parts to period princesses, and now her "detective era." With gunplay mastered, she jokes about moving into an action or romcom genre next, coining the term "romcomaction."
The Capture returns to BBC One on 8 March, with episodes available on BBC iPlayer from 6am, promising more adrenalized thrills and thought-provoking commentary on our tech-driven world.
