The gloriously knowing adaptation of Jilly Cooper's novel returns for a tremendous second season, offering fabulous escapism that defies earthly praise. Rupert Campbell-Black, the bounder and braggart, is back with his reckless charm, as the alpha-cad thrusts jubilantly into view above Rutshire's sylvan glades.
The plot follows the shaggers as they prepare for the 1987 general election, with Rupert fighting to retain his seat against dastardly Tony Baddingham and monstrous tabloid hack Beattie. Meanwhile, the struggle for the Central South West television franchise rages on, providing a ridiculous yet thrilling backdrop to the antics.
The acting is superb, with everyone clearly having the time of their lives. Aidan Turner shines as broadcast hunk Declan O'Hara, while Rupert Everett's Malise Gordon hisses with delight. The dialogue is fabulous, with tremendous references to Frank Bough and winking jokes about outdated attitudes to homophobia and Aids.
Every frame is saturated with cigarette smoke and an affection for the 80s so intense it makes the era's casual bigotry look quaint. From a horse in pink legwarmers to an unexplained dancing sheepdog, the show revels in its preposterousness. Rivals walks its tonal tightrope in a flammable fuchsia tutu, perfectly balancing knowing escapism with audacity.
