A review by Rangan

August 10, 2017

**Get in and get him. It's not that simple!** SEASON 01: The British television series has a special status in me. Usually they won't disappoint me, particularly one under the banner of the BBC. I was expecting it, and also it took time for me to give it a try. After so many months delay, I finally saw and liked it. One of the best secret intelligence-thriller. When it comes to the basic narrative, there's nothing new. You know it's a man was sent to get close to the international criminal and pass all the details to the security agency. Yeah, it's that simple, yet a bit differently done in here. It is a mini-series with six episodes and each one was like an individual film in a spy film franchise. Yeah, that would have not been a bad idea. Surely it would have been one of the best films of its kind. Anyway, the narration shifts its locations all over the world in each episode. There's no preserved secret in the tale, everything was told in a straightforward narration. But comes to the point whenever it needed. Then what makes it so powerful is the performances, especially all the lead ones, including, Tom Hiddleton, Hugh Laurie, Elizabeth Debicki, Olivian Colman and a few others. The night manager in one of the leading hotels in Cairo unexpectedly gets into an international criminal affair. But he escapes unhurt, except hurt in the heart. Following that, a few years later on the different part of the world, again he meets the same gang and this time he tries to do the right thing. The plan is to infiltrate and collect all the information. He succeeds in getting in, but what are the challenges he is going to face are the remaining suspense parts told. Liked the casting, locations, the making was awesome. Looks very carefully carved product. Highest budget television product from the BBC till date and it all paid off back with the great recognition all around. The details are good, it took time to get everything right, otherwise it would have been 3-4 episode series. It won three Golden Globes, three BAFTA and two Emmies. Almost recognised in all the important sections as it deserved for awards. If you love television series, then this one is not to be missed. The same old theme, concept, but brilliantly reshaped with fine actors and in locations with music and all. Recommended! _8/10_

In spite of the fact this series falls under the auspices of BBC, an organisation I have little regard for these days, "The Night Manager" is a winner. Derived from the novel by John le Carré, the first season was simply excellent. A great espionage thriller, with a reserved, sophisticated performance from Tom Hiddleston in the lead role. All backed by a supporting cast of capable actors and top-notch production values. There's really very little to dislike here, save perhaps the message, that British three letter intelligence agencies, are somehow a benign presence, on the world stage. Season two is shaping up promisingly too. I just hope it doesn't end up being a reiteration, of the first season with new faces, in a new setting. In summary, "The Night Manager" is the BBC the way I wish it was all the time. Quality storytelling, an excellent cast and stellar production values. A must watch, if you like espionage thrillers.