Netflix fans are rediscovering a Welsh actor's 'excellent' crime drama, which has been hailed as the 'best British police series ever'. The eight-part series, originally broadcast on the BBC in 2015, is now streaming on Netflix, drawing comparisons to acclaimed shows like Broadchurch and Line of Duty.
An Underrated Gem on Netflix
Viewers are calling for a second series of what they describe as the 'best police show ever'. The series, titled Cuffs, offers a fresh and authentic portrayal of front-line policing. It originally aired on the BBC but is no longer available on iPlayer; it can only be found on Netflix, where all eight hour-long episodes are accessible.
Plot and Setting
Set in and around Brighton, Cuffs follows a fictional constabulary and its officers, exploring both their professional and personal lives. The programme distinguishes itself by showcasing a diverse array of cases, ranging from typical incidents encountered by modern front-line officers to more lighthearted scenarios, such as troublemakers bothering naturists at a nudist beach and allegations of 'dog-napping' in an affluent area.
Cast and Reception
The series features an impressive ensemble cast, including Ashley Walters (Top Boy, Adolescence), Amanda Abbington (Sherlock), and Shaun Dooley (Changing Ends, Grantchester, Vera). While the programme did not receive enough reviews at launch for an official rating on Rotten Tomatoes, it has garnered considerable acclaim from critics and viewers alike.
One critic described it as 'an excellent police drama that was way ahead of its time. It wasn't afraid to incorporate comedy in an era where bleak Scandi Noirs were dominating our screens. It's somewhere between Broadchurch and Line of Duty with its setting and challenging cases that go beyond the professional lives of the officers involved.'
Fan Reactions and Calls for Revival
Devotees continue to call for the programme's revival years later, with many left dismayed by the BBC's choice to cancel it after a single series. One viewer insists: 'Best cop show ever! This is a jewel of a show. It is certainly the best show in this genre we have seen. Never a dull moment. Just wish there were more seasons. Maybe the title misled viewers, but entertainment at its finest!'
Another concurred, stating: 'Possibly the best British police series. I came across this show by accident, not having even heard of it, and it took only a short time for it to be one of those not to be missed. The cast is magic and work so well together. The interplay between characters is excellent and never overdone. The characters are well developed and believable. I now hear that the show has been axed - what an insult!'
A viewer who stumbled across the show on Netflix remarked: 'I just binge watched Cuffs and it's far, far too good to be cancelled after one season. I think it was a BBC production originally but I really hope Netflix picks it up and continues it. Great characters, great mix of plot and character development and great setting in Brighton.'
Cuffs is streaming now on Netflix.
