Over on MSN today: I've reviewed the feature-length opener of Stephen Poliakoff's five-part miniseries DANCING ON THE EDGE, about a black jazz band trying to breakthrough in 1930s London; starring Chiwetel Ejiofor, Matthew Goode, Janet Montgomery, John Goodman, Anthony Head & Angel Coulby.
The best period dramas reveal something to the modern-day viewer, often involving cultural differences. I must admit the idea of a mini-series about the fortunes of a London jazz band isn't something with inherent appeal, but Stephen Poliakoff's script was more entertaining and involving than expected. What's more, who could fail to be impressed by the cast assembled for this production? In addition to Chiwetel Ejiofor, there's Matthew Goode, the aforementioned John Goodman, screen veterans Jacqueline Bisset and Jane Asher, comedian Mel Smith, Buffy and Merlin star Anthony Head, Merlin's Angel Coulby and Doctor Who's Jenna-Louise Coleman. I liked how the story was very straightforward at heart, as this allowed for interesting character moments and a narrative with time to breathe.
Continue reading at MSN TV...
