TV Review of The Fixer series 1 on ITV4
Hard Hitting Drama in the Vein of La Femme Nikita
Sep 18, 2008
The Fixer is a superlative drama, with a cracking cast. In some ways it's reminiscent of La Femme Nikita, the American TV series based on Luc Besson's film Nikita. The Fixer's theme is similar, concerning a state funded but morally dubious underground unit, and a capable but reluctant assassin. Where the series differ is in execution. The Fixer is very British in style, with an urban, gritty tone more in keeping with Get Carter. It is dark, brooding and immensely gripping, but thanks to Jody Latham's character Calum, there are genuine moments of good humoured fun thrown in the mix too.
First broadcast in March 2008 and currently available to buy on DVD, The Fixer is presently receiving a welcome repeat on ITV4. A second series has already been announced, slated for broadcast in 2009, so now is a good time to catch up with the gang...
Cast and Characters
- John Mercer
Andrew Buchan plays John Mercer. Mercer has been released from prison early for a crime he did commit – but one with which the audience can sympathise. As an intelligent, ex-special forces operative, his skills are in demand by a shady character called Lenny Douglas. Lenny cuts a deal to keep John out of prison. In return John is forced to become an assassin for Lenny.
- Lenny Douglas
Lenny Douglas is played by the eminently versatile actor Peter Mullan. He is an intriguing, elusive character. Mullan plays him as unremittingly tough, but there's something in his eyes which suggests inner turmoil, even if it isn't always apparent in his actions.
- Calum McKenzie
Jody Latham (a familiar face as cocky teen Lip from Shameless) plays ex-con Calum with a robust energy. Living in the halfway house with John, Calum quickly confirms that while he might be streetwise, he is far from being a hardened criminal. His simple charm and happy go lucky demeanor remind John that life isn't always so harsh and brutal.
- Rose Chamberlain
Tamzin Outhwaite plays ex-undercover cop Rose, a complex, ambiguous character. She seduces John in the first episode, but whether she does it in the line of duty or not is debatable. Rose shoulders the burden of her duplicitous life without complaint, but like Lenny, her eyes reveal a sadness behind the ice cold exterior.
- Jess Mercer
John's sister Jess is the only family he has. Jess, played by Liz White from Life on Mars, suffered years of abuse at the hands of her uncle and aunt. This acted as the catalyst for John's murderous revenge, the crime for which he went to prison. Now he's out again, Lenny has wasted no time in exploiting John's relationship with his sister in order to persuade him to co-operate.
Quality Homegrown Drama on ITV
The Fixer is a sophisticated crime drama, with thrilling twists and turns and an outstanding cast. It has the pace and composition of an American style show, but combined with the dirt and realism of quality British TV. Well written, expertly directed, watchable and exciting, The Fixer is not to be missed.
Further reading: Read an article about another quality British TV drama series Doctor Who.
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