Criminal Record aims to be a gritty crime drama but is let down by poor casting choices and overwrought storytelling. Steven Campbell and Cush Jumbo have little on-screen chemistry, undermining the central conflict. Supporting characters like Jumbo's on-screen mother (Zoe Wanamaker) feel superfluous. The plot builds tension adequately but the climax feels rushed and unsatisfying. Most episodes drag on too long, bogged down by heavy-handed dialogue. Attempts to tackle complex issues like racism come across as forced rather than nuanced.
I'm rating it only 5.75 out of 10 stars, because Criminal Record tries to punch above its weight class but ends up a middling, forgettable series. The cast was simply not good enough. Perhaps with a more judicious edit to tighten up pacing and more subtle handling of its themes, the show could have lived up to its potential. As is, it remains a lackluster viewing experience.
I'm rating it only 5.75 out of 10 stars, because Criminal Record tries to punch above its weight class but ends up a middling, forgettable series. The cast was simply not good enough. Perhaps with a more judicious edit to tighten up pacing and more subtle handling of its themes, the show could have lived up to its potential. As is, it remains a lackluster viewing experience.