British dramas are often seen as moments of quality amidst the generally more flamboyant American counterparts, however, they too can be as outrageous as productions from the US. Just think of the likes of ‘Line of Duty’, that in place of a credible plot, had Adrian Dunbar constantly prattling about tiny donkeys; or ‘Peaky Blinders’, with Cillian Murphy’s flat cap delivering some of the most memorable performances.
The latest addition to this roster of absurdity is ‘Nightsleeper’ (BBC One, Sunday, 9pm), a thriller with a pendulum swing between fantasy and pure disillusionment, that mirrors the fluctuating schedule of an Irish Rail timetable. It kicks off with the commencement of a night train journey from Glasgow to London, where Joe Roag (Joe Cole), a former police officer, exploits a minor commotion to flaunt his law enforcement abilities by apprehending a thief. However, this is just the start of Joe’s thrilling escapade as a cyber-attack is launched on the train – a ploy which eventually escalates to a complete takeover of Britain’s entire railway system.
This overblown plot induces mere boredom when compared to spending 40 minutes at Limerick Junction. Concurrently in London, Abby (Alexandra Roach), a cyber-security genius, is prepping for a holiday getaway to Marrakesh. On learning about the hijacking of the Glasgow night train, she gets in touch with Joe via a satellite phone.
Things get cringe-worthy as they sing Kate Nash’s ‘Foundations’ over the call, inciting second-hand embarrassment for the viewers. But there’s a plot twist. Joe, it seems, is tangled up in this train takeover, and ends up as one of the few passengers remaining on board as the train departs from the station in Motherwell.
In short, according to reviews, ‘Nightsleeper’ is a new BBC train thriller with a whimsical plot as unpredictable as an Irish Rail timetable.
Nightsleeper is hardly an inexplicable phenomenon. It joins the recent wave of dramas inspired by the timeless action favourite, Die Hard. Vigil, a BBC endeavour, had already attempted to replicate the Die Hard style in the unique setting of a submarine. Similarly, Apple TV’s Hijack slotted Idris Elba in the quintessential everyman hero role, synonymous with Bruce Willis. Fortunately, Elba’s charm was impactful in embodying the character. Conversely, Cole seems too understated and lacklustre to take on an explosive thriller.
Another drawback is the apparent lack of thrill and excitement in the high-energy antics of Nightsleeper. The programme consistently fails to establish any element of danger, and any surge in tension is instantly deflated by the subsequent corny scene, such as the ghastly exchange involving Kate Nash.
One consolation for Irish spectators might be the fact that the malicious plot outlined in Nightsleeper would be rendered unfeasible on Irish rails. The plotters’ plans would undoubtedly be confounded by the habitual lateness of the train, which would likely be substituted by a bus at the last moment. Still, the ensuing five episodes might see Nightsleeper gather momentum. Until then, BBC’s fanciful train thriller seems to be meandering aimlessly.