... and I hate to slate their productions, especially the more contemporary work that often challenges the viewer in all the right ways. Unfortunately, with 'One Child', it seems the story's flight to reaching full potential was undermined by the writers trying to fit too much into such a short series.
In setting the story against a backdrop - or, really, a foreground - of serious political, social, and human issues (adoption, corruption, death penalty, etc.), it seems the writers were aiming to make the characters' journeys all the more powerful and poignant. However, the inclusion of multiple big topics and the limited screen-time meant that none of the core elements of the story, ranging from the characters' emotional lives to the socio-political challenges of present-day China, were done much justice. Mainly, the emotionally-charged subject of adoption and a belated family reunion was undercut by the political elements that are thrust a little too obtrusively in the viewer's face.
BBC dramas are usually so unique and powerful because of their nuanced handling of both personal and political subjects. Sadly, 'One Child' came across as a Westerner's idea of China, where all the typical things we "know" about the country (one child policy, government corruption, economic inequality, etc.) are lumped together in a clumsy caricaturing that makes Mei's own story seem strangely outlandish and improbable.
Simply put, there was too much going on in what was only three episodes. The writers should have either explored all the above themes in a longer series, or simply focused on one. As it is, the emotional storyline was underwhelming and the political elements overdone. It really is a pity, as the story had the potential to be an enthralling drama...
In setting the story against a backdrop - or, really, a foreground - of serious political, social, and human issues (adoption, corruption, death penalty, etc.), it seems the writers were aiming to make the characters' journeys all the more powerful and poignant. However, the inclusion of multiple big topics and the limited screen-time meant that none of the core elements of the story, ranging from the characters' emotional lives to the socio-political challenges of present-day China, were done much justice. Mainly, the emotionally-charged subject of adoption and a belated family reunion was undercut by the political elements that are thrust a little too obtrusively in the viewer's face.
BBC dramas are usually so unique and powerful because of their nuanced handling of both personal and political subjects. Sadly, 'One Child' came across as a Westerner's idea of China, where all the typical things we "know" about the country (one child policy, government corruption, economic inequality, etc.) are lumped together in a clumsy caricaturing that makes Mei's own story seem strangely outlandish and improbable.
Simply put, there was too much going on in what was only three episodes. The writers should have either explored all the above themes in a longer series, or simply focused on one. As it is, the emotional storyline was underwhelming and the political elements overdone. It really is a pity, as the story had the potential to be an enthralling drama...