Edge Of Darkness - The Complete Series on DVD (1985)

Andrew Shore from Southsea, England , 13/01/2004

Hugely enjoyable political thriller that is as relevant today as it was in the 1980s - if not more so, given the nuclear ambitions of the current US government (it's interesting to note that there's a film version of this currently at the planning stage [I believe]). Great performance by the late (and great) Bob Peck, ably supported by a fantastic cast.

Sadness perhaps at the realisation that the BBC don't appear capable of producing drama of this quality anymore.

All in all - completely and utterly unmissable!

  10 out of 10 people found this review helpful

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Jester from Tyne and Wear , 14/10/2003

This is without a doubt one of the best productions for TV that I have ever seen. It handles important issues like politics, nuclear plants and environmental questions in a unique way: with a preference but without preaching. The story unfolds steadily and quietly, the characters are allowed to develop fully, thereby giving the story an amazing depth and force. The actors are some of Britain's best and brightest, but Bob Peck is truly the shining star even in this devastatingly skilled cast. Furthermore, this is a TV-series with a mission. But oddly enough, you will not feel you're being lectured to - instead it leaves you with a feeling that you want to take responsibility, a rare emotion whenever nuclear power is discussed! I will never forget the scene between the very American Joe Don Baker and the very British Bob Peck drinking whisky and singing. Baker then tells him a long story in his drawling Texan accent. Peck just looks at him, raises his eyebrow one millimeter and says: "Is this relevant?" When you've seen this quiet masterpiece, you too will answer: "Yes".

  9 out of 9 people found this review helpful

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Kramer from Yorkshire , 14/02/2005

I remember watching this as child with my dad and not really understanding all of the implications but being enthralled nonetheless. Its even better when it all makes sense! Even though the 80s setting is evident, the acting, story and production is timeless - ahead of most on TV now - Bob Peck is tremendous and the haunting Eric Clapton score is perfect. Remember that the beeb repeated this series only a matter of weeks after it was first transmitted due to demand.

Disc 2 is at the top of my wish list!

  8 out of 8 people found this review helpful

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JacoPastorius from London , 22/01/2004

It's pure pleasure to watch a TV drama that can only be described as escapist realism, well, actually it can be described as lots of other things but that's how I like to say it. Bob Pecks droll Yorkshire policeman trying to come to terms with the mysterious world of his recently murdered daughter. He makes Morse look like Jim Carrey, so understated is his performance. It damn rocks.

  8 out of 9 people found this review helpful

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Simon Roberts from England , 11/10/2005

If you want a near perfect example of the dumbing down of modern TV, watch this.

It's difficult to put your finger on why this drama is so special. Perhaps the writing, with just enough left unexplained. Maybe the quirkiness of it, not to the Twin Peaks extreme, but far more subtle. Then again, it might be the stunning performances from the cast, especially Bob Peck.

Yes it is dated, and the picture quality on the DVD varies from poor to abysmal.

It is still engrossing though, without the need to spell everythig out to the audience. This one assumes you have enough intelligence to figure it out yourself.

Eric Clapton's haunting soundtrack is just the icing on the cake.

Rent it.

  4 out of 4 people found this review helpful

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A customer from manchester , 30/01/2005

this was the first dvd i bought, not only is the story line dark, with so many twists and turns, but you question the motives of all the charactors that our hero(if hero he is) comes across, a very dark portrayal of power corruption and abuse, on both sides of the 'pond'! this is a long story to watch, but treat yourself, it's worth it....

  2 out of 2 people found this review helpful

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