'The English' Review: Emily Blunt's western drama is brutal, violent and a thrilling piece of television
It's been a while since we have seen Emily Blunt in a major TV role and if we go by the recent trends, every major actor or actress is really happy being on television because it expands their reach and gives them more chances to show their acting prowess. So, it doesn't come as a shock that Blunt also decided to join the bandwagon and star in a TV series. Titled 'The English', the western drama primarily focuses on the life of an Englishwoman named Cornelia Locke (Blunt) who arrives in the West in 1890 and is looking for a man who killed her son.
The western drama starts off with a narration from Blunt's character and a few moments later, we see her character getting off a stagecoach in a pretty pink and revenge on her mind. As the story progresses, her character gets to know that her journey is not going to be easy because people would do anything to kill her and take all her money. As a matter of fact, that's what happens in the first episode when Locke is abducted by a really bad man (Ciaran Hinds) which gives us an idea that he knows who killed Locke's son. He also suggests that she should return to her home because she won't be able to survive in the wild lands and she has no chance of getting to the man who killed her son. Luckily, she has earned an ally during her journey in the form of Eli Whipp, a US Army veteran.
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The best aspect of the first two episodes is that it beautifully captures the essence of the wild west and presents a story that's riveting and engaging in every way possible. Making a western drama is never easy, and that's why a lot of recently-made western dramas haven't been that good, but 'The English' manages to tell efficiently how these lawless lands can be so mortifying. The series takes a good few minutes to gather steam, but it never loses your attention. From the very first frame, you get to see the cruel side of the wild west, and it's not a sight that anyone would want to see.
As far as acting is concerned, Emily Blunt is at her very best and continues to show why she's one of the greatest actors of all time. Even when she has suffered a lot of trauma in her life, there's still a lot of hopefulness in her. On the other hand, Chaske Spencer as Eli Whipp stood toe-to-toe with Blunt and gave a phenomenal performance.
However, the first episode belongs to Ciaran Hinds and Toby Jones. Hinds is terrifying as the guy who abducts Cornelia and his impeccable performance would definitely keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
Overall, the first two episodes of 'The English' lay down a perfect foundation for the series, and they are absolutely magnificent. Although it's too early to judge the series, it's safe to say that things are only going to get better from here.
With good direction, a well-written script, and brilliant acting, 'The English' is definitely a treat for the eyes.
'The English' premieres exclusively on Amazon Prime Video on Friday, November 11.
(The first two episodes of 'The English' were shown at the 66th London Film Festival)
