Apple TV+’s hit spy drama Slow Horse is back for its fourth season, emerging not just as a top-notch series but also as a cultural touchstone reflecting contemporary British life. Based on the novels by Mick Herron, the show has captivated viewers with its unique portrayal of MI5’s rejects and their harsh, hopeless existence. With its latest season premiering today, it’s a good time to explore what makes Slow Horse a great series and why it connects deeply with viewers.
The Anti-Bond: Jackson Lamb and his team of misfits
At the heart of Slow Horse is Jackson Lamb, a character who breaks the mold of a suave, sophisticated spy. Played brilliantly by Gary Oldman, Lamb is a far cry from the polished James Bond or the brainy George Smiley. Instead, Lamb is a disheveled, unabashedly unkempt man whose personal hygiene and general appearance leave much to be desired. His unkempt appearance, which is characterised by a lack of grooming and a disdain for conventional norms, is a far cry from the glamorous image of spies in popular culture.
Lamb’s character is a deliberate inversion of the ideal spy. He embodies the anti-hero trope, proving to be incredibly skilled and quick-witted, despite his rough exterior and boorish behaviour. This complexity adds depth to the character, making him both compelling and relatable. As Herron says, Lamb is a man who has seen the glitz of the spy world and rejected it, becoming a weary but effective operative in the process.
A harsher view on the spy world
The setting of Slow Horse is a far cry from the sleek, high-tech environments usually associated with espionage. Slough House, the place where failed MI5 agents are rehired, is portrayed as a grim, shabby office space. The setting is not just a physical location, but a powerful metaphor for the show’s commentary on modern Britain. The dilapidated office and the low status of the characters highlight the contrast between the idealized world of the detective and the often depressing reality faced by those left behind.
The show’s portrayal of Slough House and its residents reflects a broader critique of bureaucracy and institutional failure. The “Slow Horses” are portrayed as victims of a system that has failed them, and their daily struggles become a lens through which the show explores themes of incompetence and disillusionment. This portrayal resonates with viewers who see parallels in their own experiences with bureaucratic systems.
Humor and Drama: Balance of Tones
Slow Horse excels at balancing dark humor with intense drama. The show’s writing is sharp, and its dialogue is filled with sharp humor and sarcasm. Lamb’s sharp comments and the incongruous conversations among the Slow Horses create moments of dark comedy that lighten the show’s otherwise serious tone. This blend of humor and drama is one of the series’ strengths, allowing it to address serious topics while maintaining an engaging and entertaining narrative.
The comedic elements are not simply for relief, but serve to deepen characterization and enhance the show’s thematic exploration. The absurdity of the situations in which the characters find themselves underscores the larger commentary on the nature of failure and redemption. The humor also makes the characters more relatable, as their flaws and misfortunes are portrayed with a sense of humanity and vulnerability.
Adaptations of Mick Herron’s Novels
The transition from Mick Herron’s novels to the screen has been handled carefully, preserving the essence of the source material while adapting it for television. Herron’s writing, known for its complex plotlines and richly developed characters, translates well to the visual medium. The series remains faithful to the tone and themes of the novels, showcasing a darkly humorous and often depressing portrayal of the detective and his discontents.
Herron’s novels have been compared to the works of Evelyn Waugh and Raymond Chandler, reflecting their sharp social commentary and narrative complexity. Slow Horse’s success is a testament to the strength of Herron’s writing and the effective adaptation by the show’s producers. The series has not only brought Herron’s work to a wider audience, but has also furthered it through high-quality production and a talented cast.
A reflection on contemporary Britain
One of the most compelling aspects of Slow Horse is its critique of contemporary Britain. The show presents a vision of a nation struggling with its own dysfunctions and failures. The grim portrayal of London and the bureaucratic mishaps experienced by the characters serve as a critique of the state of the nation. The show’s portrayal of Britain is both realistic and satirical, offering commentary on the gap between the country’s aspirations and its reality.
Writer Amanda Craig’s observation that Herron’s work reflects a “Bleak House vibe” of modern Britain is particularly apt. The show’s setting and characters reflect