
(4 / 5)
The Guest is the latest drama to be set in Wales but, for once, it’s not made by a Welsh production company. Quay Street Productions, based in Manchester, are building a nice portfolio of original content with a UK focus. And after the success of Men Up, this four-part series underlines their serious intent towards authenticity. There are no stereotypes or caricatures here, though the class divide between protagonists Fran (Eve Myles) and Ria (Gabrielle Creevy) is clear. It feeds into what is a dark and mysterious thriller, full of intrigue and surprise twists, with their fascinating relationship at its centre.

Both Myles and Creevy come with a strong pedigree. Cast together as opposites here makes for a wonderfully dynamic relationship. Ria is both vulnerable yet strong-willed; Fran coercive yet sympathetic. Both actors bring their penchant for multilayered expression to present not only complex selves but a lively partnership that adds much to the emotional suspense. The discourse on power, particularly in relation to class and wealth, is cleverly woven into their respective characters which forgives a far more blatant set-up. The opening scenes, consisting of dichotomies as obvious as urban/rural, private/social, and new/old, contrasting sharply with the three-dimensional friendship that develops between the two.
This is perhaps why the ending feels unsatisfactory. Tying up the loose end a bit too neatly and nicely after a series of simmering and pulsating encounters. Not that the journey to this point isn’t worth it. It’s exciting and shocking enough to go along for the ride. The risk being that the more thrills the audience gets, the more expectation is placed on its final delivery. Hence the disappointment of a rather fairytale ending. Belying the enthralling nature of the moral conflicts and paradoxical actions that come before.
Despite the frayed bookends to this series, The Guest is a highly enjoyable watch. Made so by the enrapturing performances of its female leads. They carry a twisting and telling narrative successfully through to an albeit inferior conclusion. Nevertheless, it is gripping. Showcasing Wales in an implicit light, for which Quay Street should be commended.
Click here to watch the series on BBC iPlayer.



(3 / 5)




















