State of Play (BBC Series - 2003)

The US movie version of this was very good and base on this, but this series is much, much better. Because it is done as a mini-series there is much more detail, more character development, more fun.

John Simm is brilliant as the character played very differently in the US version by Russel Crowe. Bill Nighy is the scheming editor and friend of Simm's character. Kelly Macdonald is outstanding as the young reporter written totally differently for the US audience. Much better here. And James McAvoy is delightful as the son with something to prove. These are the newspaper folks.

The politician and wife are played by David Morrissey and Polly Walker. He is stiff and she is sultry. Both as perfect in their roles.

If you like a political murder mystery thriller, this is one of the highest sort. Well written, perfectly acted, deliciously photographed, with a good mix of funny, sad, and thought-provoking material.

Watch this with someone who will enjoy each cliff-hanger episode ending.