In The Flesh - Episode 1 Review

rating: 4.5

With the zombie genre getting ever so difficult to keep renewing and getting fresh, one's hopes for In The Flesh weren't massive. In many minds, it would be just another BBC Three drama with a lot more swearing and nudity as well as rampant teenagers as the main characters. But by the end of episode one, it looks like In The Flesh may in fact be the best thing BBC Three has ever produced in its eleven year history. In The Flesh focuses on a world in which zombies are being slowly integrated back into mainstream society. The only difference is that they aren't called zombies, as in this world, the preferred term is Partially Deceased Syndrome. The story focuses on teenager Kieren, who returns home to his family, and returns to a hostile community who pretty much want to rid the zombies out of the community, one way or another. The first episode shows Kieran re-adapting to life back home, as well as observing the traumatised world following the apocalyptic destruction left behind by his "syndrome". The first thing to say about this drama, is that expectations were low due to the fact that publicity and overall marketing was small compared to other BBC dramas across the board. But after this first episode, word of mouth may give this programme a much needed audience boost. This was a very strong opening to the series, that established a terrified world as well as introduced very interesting and well developed characters. The idea of the zombies being diagnosed with an illness is very creative. The idea of Partially Deceased Syndrome adds more layer and depth to the undead characters, and allows the writer to develop them and give them personalities very easy. Its an interesting new avenue to explore and lets us see things in the POV of the zombies. Another positive is the cinematography of the drama. Cinematography in television is overlooked most of the time compared to cinematography in film. In The Flesh has great visuals as well as a cinematic look to it. A major positive also of this episode is the writing. Dominic Mitchell has crafted a steller script, with strong characters, dialogue and mood. Add that with an excellent rich score and direction from Jonny Campbell, it captures the perfect tone for what is a grim and harrowing tale in a post apocalyptic world. The show also provides us with a lot of new acting talent across the board. A stand out of this episode comes from Harriet Cains who plays Jem, a conflicted rebel fighter who is torn between her fellow soldiers, and her zombie brother. For a first episode, In The Flesh delivers and sets up a unique original story with strong direction, writing, cinematography, score and performances. This is a show to watch this year.