The Invisibles

"The Invisibles" is a British television drama series produced by BBC One in 2008. The primary cast includes the likes of celebrated British actors Anthony Head, Warren Clarke, Jenny Agutter, and Dean Lennox Kelly.

The series provides a unique blend of crime, comedy and drama. "The Invisibles" follows the intriguing journey of Maurice Riley (played by Anthony Head) and Syd Woolsey (played by Warren Clarke). With a rich past in the criminal underworld, Maurice and Syd used to be the most prominent burglars of their time, but they have since turned a new leaf and retired to rural Cornwall in an attempt to lead a quiet, law-abiding lifestyle away from their notorious criminal history.

However, their old connections are not so easy to sever and the lure of their past activities prove difficult to ignore, forcing them to balance the mundane normality of their current life while being irresistibly drawn back into the world they have left behind. Maurice's wife Barbara, brought to life by Jenny Agutter, is unaware of her husband's infamous past, further contraposing the chasm between the ordinary and the clandestine aspects of their lives.

The story is served with generous doses of clever humor, dynamic relationships, and suspense, adding depth and an enticing edge to the narrative, all underpinned by the nostalgic undertones of missed old times and youthful misdemeanors. The series carries a unique narrative approach, not simply glorifying their past misdemeanors but engaging with the deeper aspects of their characters, their motives and the choices they've made.

Anthony Head, widely recognized for his role in 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer', embodies Maurice, who is an ingenious, charismatic leader with a knack for schemes and strategies. His character has certain depth and complexity, reflecting a battle between leaving behind his crime-filled past and succumbing to the thrill of criminal activities.

Warren Clarke, known for 'Dalziel and Pascoe', is Syd Woolsey, Maurice's loyal and talented sidekick. His nuanced performance highlights the underlying moral trepidity and the stark contrast between the 'right' and the 'wrong'. He is often seen grappling with his inner demons, thus, enhancing the real-life charm of his role and making his character relatable.

Jenny Agutter, who brought critical acclaim to films such as 'The Railway Children' and 'Logan's Run', plays the part of Barbara, Maurice’s unsuspecting wife. Her portrayal as the supportive wife unaware of her husband's activities adds an interesting subplot and enhances the overall narrative tension.

Meanwhile, Dean Lennox Kelly, recognized for his role in 'Shameless', plays Hedley Huthwaite, another character influenced by Maurice's past life. This characters adds further excitement and intrigue to the plot thus keeping the viewers hooked.

The show incorporates stunning landscapes and a beautiful rural setting to juxtapose the protagonists' turbulent past with the tranquil life they are attempting to lead. This striking contrast serves to accentuate their internal conflict between their old felonious habits and their current endeavors at leading a reformed lifestyle.

In essence, "The Invisibles" presents a compelling narrative that combines elements of crime, humour, engaging character arcs and scenic landscapes that make it a delight to watch. Although it carries a sense of nostalgia for a more lively past, it also navigates the emotional complexities and struggles of its characters in the present context. The captivating performances and nuanced dictation of the narrative make "The Invisibles" a true gem in the genre. If you are a fan of thrillers that offer more than just adrenaline surge, "The Invisibles" should definitely be on your list. The series is filled with twists and surprises throughout the storyline, making it an enticing journey into the depths of human desire, regret and redemption.