Emily Zemler
Updated on: October 7, 2024 1:17 am GMT
As television viewers, we are often inundated with a plethora of police dramas vying for our attention. Some grab us from the very start, featuring gripping narratives and unforgettable characters, while others might leave us feeling completely underwhelmed. “The Tower,” an ITV1 crime drama returning for its third series, falls somewhere in between—despite once bringing a fresh twist to the crowded genre, it now faces the specter of diminishing returns.
So what exactly has happened to a show that initially promised so much? How has it evolved—or devolved—over time? For those who have followed Detective Sergeant Sarah Collins (played brilliantly by Gemma Whelan) on her investigative journey, the latest installment offers a mix of intrigue and disappointment. Read on as we explore the highs and lows of this latest season, assessing how “The Tower” measures up against the growing stack of police procedurals on the small screen.
A New Season and Old Struggles
Three years ago, “The Tower” burst onto our screens, introducing DS Sarah Collins and a thrilling case involving two bodies found in the shadow of a dilapidated tower block. With an exciting combination of interpersonal drama—particularly involving Collins’s superior, DI Kieran Shaw, and rookie officer Lizzie Adama—and a gripping storyline, the show managed to captivate audiences eager for fresh narratives. However, as the series progressed, many viewers have begun to notice the once-enthusiastic spark has dimmed considerably.
The third series kicks off with a somber reminder of the real-world issues plaguing modern policing. The plight of knife crime in London becomes a central focus, but instead of offering new perspectives or gripping plot developments, the show seems to recycle old themes. Many find themselves wondering if they’re watching a rerun of the news rather than an engaging story. Yes, contemporary issues like gang warfare and the use of “zombie knives” warrant exploration, but can “The Tower” do so creatively, or will it become another tired rehash?
Collisions and Conflicts
At the heart of this season are the tumultuous relationships that have defined previous installments. Collins is now in a seemingly happier place with her girlfriend, Julie, yet her encounters with her former colleagues are fraught with tension. The love triangle involving DI Kieran Shaw, PC Lizzie Adama, and their personal struggles—complicated by the pressures of police work and single motherhood—should be a goldmine for drama. However, instead of captivating character arcs, viewers are met with an overwhelming sense of apathy. As the connections between characters fray, questions arise: Where is the emotional engagement? Why do these struggles feel stale?
In the opening episode, Collins and Shaw’s separate investigations make for interesting contrasts. Collins urges for more awareness and action regarding black-on-black crime, and Shaw is involved in a covert operation that ultimately aims at taking down a gang leader but lacks transparency. This layered approach could serve as a profound commentary on policing and community relations, yet it is muddled by insufficient exploration of how these narratives intertwine.
Reasons to Stay Tuned
Despite its shortcomings, “The Tower” does shine in certain areas, particularly with characters like undercover cop Steve Bradshaw, portrayed by Jimmy Akingbola. His comedic and relaxed demeanor brings much-needed levity to an often dark narrative. As he juggles the complexities of living life undercover, his character offers a glimpse of the fearlessness required of those in this treacherous line of work.
Whelan’s performance remains commendable, and her ability to convey nuanced emotions resonates with audiences looking for a strong lead. However, even her standout efforts cannot easily fill the gaps left by an inconsistent plotline and lackluster supporting roles.
The Realism Factor
One aspect that has always set “The Tower” apart is the grounding in realism brought forward by source author Kate London—who herself has extensive experience with the Metropolitan Police. This authenticity, drawn from her tenure within the force, has lent greater credibility to the procedural methods depicted on screen, offering viewers a sense of trust in the story. Yet, there’s only so much realism can do when the execution falters, leading viewers to feel like they’re witnessing a drawn-out study of mundane police work rather than an engaging drama.
A Double-Edged Sword
As “The Tower” continues to air its third series, watchers are left wondering how to reconcile their fond memories of its inception with the current reality of increasingly familiar themes. Are viewers simply craving the thrill of unpredictability? Or are they hoping for more compelling character development?
The series may still have its moments—thought-provoking questions about policing and society, some tongue-in-cheek humor from characters like Steve—yet the sparks of creativity that initially attracted audiences appear diminished.
Conclusion: A Call for Evolution
In every creative endeavor, evolution is key. To remain relevant in the competitive world of police dramas, “The Tower” must dynamically adapt its storytelling strategies and character arcs to pull viewers back in. Real-life issues are complex, and reducing them to simplistic narratives does little to engage an audience that thrives on depth and originality.
As we stand at an important juncture in the journey of “The Tower,” there’s hope that it can find ways to rediscover the energy that once set it apart from its peers. Much like the officers it portrays, the team behind the series must tackle its own challenges if it hopes to regain the hearts and minds of viewers. With the right approach, perhaps “The Tower” can rise once more from the ashes and regain its status as a compelling exploration of the intricate marionette threads that weave through societal issues and police work alike.
What do you think? Will “The Tower” get better in the next episodes, or are we seeing another series that started strong but is fading away? We’ll have to wait and see. But whether you’re a big fan or just curious, it’s interesting to watch how this season turns out!
