Sally Wainwright’s new drama ‘Riot Women’ promises a punk-rock revolution
A fresh take on middle-aged rebellion
Sally Wainwright, the creative mind behind “Happy Valley,” is back with a new BBC drama titled “Riot Women”. This six-part series dives into the lives of a group of middle-aged women who decide to shake things up by forming a punk-rock band. What starts as a whimsical entry into a talent contest quickly evolves into a powerful outlet for their voices and frustrations.
Stellar cast brings characters to life
The series boasts an impressive cast, with Joanna Scanlan and Tamsin Greig leading the charge. Scanlan, known for her roles in “Slow Horses” and “A Very Royal Scandal,” will portray Beth. Greig, celebrated for her performances in “Black Books” and “Sexy Beast,” takes on the role of Holly. They are joined by Rosalie Craig as Kitty, Lorraine Ashbourne as Jess, and Amelia Bullmore as Yvonne.
A deeper look at the characters
As the women juggle demanding jobs, grown-up children, complicated parents, and tumultuous relationships, their band becomes a catalyst for change. The synopsis hints at a deeply buried secret that begins to surface, entangling Kitty and Beth in a complex triangle that threatens to unravel everything.
Original music and on-location filming
The series, produced by Drama Republic for the BBC and BritBox, was initially announced under the working title “Hot Flush.” It features original songs from the band ARXX and is currently being filmed on location in West Yorkshire.
A rich ensemble cast
The ensemble cast includes notable names such as Anne Reid, Sue Johnston, Peter Davison, Claire Skinner, Angel Coulby, Taj Atwal, Chandeep Uppal, Jonny Green, Ellise Chappell, Macy Jacob Seelochan, Tony Hirst, Shannon Lavelle, Amit Shah, Rick Warden, Ben Batt, Natalia Tena, Melanie La Barrie, Oliver Huntingdon, Richard Fleeshman, Olwen May, Kevin Doyle, and Nicholas Gleaves.
Wainwright’s excitement and creative vision
Wainwright, who creates, writes, and executive produces the show, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “I think I am more excited about this than anything else I have ever written. Ever. Oh my God. We have five of the most fabulous actresses on the planet playing the Riot Women. It’s scarily exciting.”
Behind the scenes
Amanda Brotchie, known for “Gentleman Jack,” will direct the second block of episodes. Jessica Taylor serves as the producer, with Roanna Benn executive producing for Drama Republic, Tanya Qureshi for the BBC, and Robert Schildhouse and Jess O’Riordan for BritBox International.
Where to watch
The series is set to premiere in the U.K. on BBC iPlayer and BBC One. In the U.S. and Canada, it will be available on BritBox International. Mediawan Rights and Entourage Ventures are handling international rights.
Personal reflections for enthusiasts
For fans of cinema and TV series, “Riot Women” offers a refreshing narrative that blends humor, drama, and music. The show’s exploration of middle-aged women’s lives through the lens of punk rock is both innovative and relatable. The characters’ journey from forming a band to uncovering long-buried secrets promises to be a compelling watch.
In-depth analysis
The decision to feature original music by ARXX adds an authentic touch to the series, making the band’s journey feel real and immersive. The on-location filming in West Yorkshire further grounds the story in a tangible setting, enhancing the overall viewing experience.
Distinctive comments
Wainwright’s ability to create complex, multi-dimensional characters is evident in “Riot Women.” The show’s premise of middle-aged women finding their voice through punk rock is not only entertaining but also empowering. It challenges societal norms and highlights the importance of self-expression at any age.
Additional details and context
The inclusion of a diverse and talented cast ensures that each character is brought to life with depth and nuance. The show’s exploration of themes such as family dynamics, personal growth, and the power of music adds layers to the narrative, making it a must-watch for fans of character-driven dramas.
Links to trailers and information pages
For more information and to watch the trailer, visit the following links:
Final thoughts
“Riot Women” is set to be a groundbreaking series that combines humor, drama, and music to tell a story of self-discovery and empowerment. With a stellar cast, original music, and Wainwright’s creative vision, it promises to be a standout addition to the world of television drama.