Katherine Kelly is quickly becoming one of the most versatile and sought-after actresses in the UK. From her critically acclaimed role as DI Jodie Shackleton in Happy Valley to her captivating portrayal of Anne Lister in Gentleman Jack, Kelly has proven time and time again that she is a force to be reckoned with on the small screen.
And now, she is back with a bang in the new Channel 4 drama In Flight. Created by the renowned director Adam Randall, who also helmed the fourth season of the hit spy series, Slow Horses, In Flight is a gripping drama that has already piqued the interest of fans.
The three-part series premiered on Tuesday night, with the remaining episodes airing on Wednesday and Thursday. In the first episode, viewers were introduced to a young man who is accused of murder while on holiday in Bulgaria. This leads to his air hostess mother, Jo (played by Katherine Kelly), desperately turning to drug trafficking in an attempt to save her son from prison.
Given the success of Slow Horses, many fans are curious to know how this latest drama fares. And so far, it has received rave reviews, although some critics have noted that it may be a bit too bleak for some viewers.
Digital Spy praises Kelly’s powerful performance as Jo, stating that she brings real grit and desperation to the character. The writing is also highly praised for its tightness and ability to build tension that leaves viewers on the edge of their seats.
The Times gives the series a solid 4 out of 5, with a special mention to Katherine Kelly’s impeccable acting skills. They note that she carries the whole show from the very first scene and continues to deliver a hauntingly powerful performance throughout.
However, The Guardian gives a slightly more critical review, rating the series 3 out of 5. They describe the series as “bleak, bleak suffering,” and note that it may be a bit too suffocating for some viewers. But they do acknowledge Kelly’s magnetic performance as the saving grace of the show.
The Standard also gives the series a 3 out of 5, pointing out that while some elements may not make sense, the show is still enjoyable for a lazy Tuesday night viewing. They praise Kelly’s performance, which keeps things on track, and acknowledge that the plot may not be perfect, but it still makes for a gripping watch.
The Daily Mail, on the other hand, gives the series a 3 out of 5, stating that while Kelly’s performance is outstanding, the intense and exhausting scenes may take a toll on her. However, The Telegraph gives the show a solid 4 out of 5, commending Kelly’s great performance and noting that the series could easily fit into primetime viewing on Netflix or ITV.
Even with some mixed reviews, it is clear that Kelly’s performance is a standout in In Flight. The official Channel 4 Instagram account also shared a photo of Kelly with a caption that reads, “Kelly shines in the lead role, playing an ordinary person caught in an extraordinary situation.” High praise indeed.
Radio Times commends Kelly for her exceptional work in the series but does note that the show may fall into the trap of being too dark and miserable. Esquire also acknowledges the intense and anxiety-inducing nature of the show but still rates it highly and encourages viewers to tune in for the finale.
In Flight continues to air on Wednesday and Thursday at 9pm on Channel 4, and if the reviews are anything to go by, it’s definitely a series worth tuning in for. With Kelly’s gripping performance at the helm, viewers are in for a thrilling and emotional ride. So, buckle up and get ready for an unforgettable drama in the skies.
