Coma, review: Jason Watkins makes Channel 5's latest far-fetched thriller worth watching
The show Coma on Channel 5 is a thriller where an average individual makes a quick decision with grave outcomes. To make these dramas impactful, we need to relate and think to ourselves - yes, if in that same circumstance, I would have acted in the same way. The authenticity of the character played by Jason Watkins, a skilled actor who portrays an unassuming person pushed to their boundaries, aids in creating that connect with the viewers.
In this blog section, it is discussed how Watkins portrays the character of Simon Henderson, who is a devoted husband and father residing in a neighborhood that is troubled by constant disorderly conduct from a group of misbehaving individuals. This posse of individuals frequently cause havoc by intimidating shoppers in the supermarket, leaving empty beer bottles scattered in the kids' playground, and generally causing discomfort for anyone who adheres to the law. Simon has reached his breaking point as he recently lost his job and is anxious about how this situation may affect his family. The main cause of his distress is a member of the group, who seems to be specifically targeting him.
During an incident described as self-defence by a defence lawyer and red mist by a prosecutor, Simon hit someone and their head made a cracking sound upon hitting the pavement. The first police officer to arrive asks Simon if he witnessed what occurred. Simon had two options: either speak the truth and face the repercussions or fabricate a falsehood. He picked the latter.
Kayla Meikle, the detective in charge of the case, has a laid-back demeanor but senses that there's an issue. Then, Paul Franklin, the victim's father, is introduced to the scene and is portrayed by Jonas Armstrong in the likeness of a more irritable Roy Keane. Simon, in a nervous tone, asks Paul what he does for a living and he responds by saying he's a full-time gangster, followed by a laughter that may or may not be sarcastic.
Simon's risk of being exposed increases as he continues to fib. Watkins nails the role of someone who's anxious about getting involved with Franklin. Ben Edwards portrays Simon's and his wife's middle-class existence as precarious, with wine glasses and a narrow buffer between them and financial instability. The tale will unfold over four consecutive evenings.
I tend to be lenient when it comes to Channel 5 dramas since they are produced with significantly less money than BBC or Netflix shows. This particular one was filmed outside the UK due to budget constraints, but at least they don't have unrealistic expectations. These dramas are straightforward and deliver on their promise of providing suspenseful thrills. It's best not to focus too much on the minor details (like whether a blow to the head can lead to a heart attack or if the actors are too old to be playing young gang members).
The final episode, which will be shown on Thursday, could be absurd as it is often the case. Nonetheless, Watkins' acting is impressive and it could make you continue to watch.
