The BBC’s latest five-part series, *The Rapture*, attempts to blend the heavy themes of climate change with a dash of dark humour and thrilling twists. While the show features an engaging premise and a cast led by Ruth Madeley, it ultimately navigates the complex waters of climate anxiety with a tone that oscillates between absurdity and earnestness.
A Compelling Yet Quirky Premise
At the heart of *The Rapture* is Gabrielle “Gabs” Fox, portrayed by Ruth Madeley, who returns to her role as a psychologist following a tragic car accident that took her husband and left her with a disability. Her first case is nothing short of extraordinary: she is tasked with assessing Bethany Krall (India Amarteifio), a young woman imprisoned for her mother’s murder, who claims to experience visions of the apocalypse. “Work always made me feel alive,” Gabs reveals to her therapist, Mel (Ruth Jones), as she attempts to reclaim her life and her profession.
As Gabs delves deeper into Bethany’s case, she uncovers a murky world filled with cult-like influences and a conspiracy linked to her father, Leonard (Sam Hazeldine), the enigmatic leader of a controversial church. The narrative quickly spirals into a complex web involving a shady fossil fuel company, a determined journalist named Dick Carwyn (Iwan Rheon), and an activist group reminiscent of Extinction Rebellion, led by the mysterious Anika Drake (Siena Kelly).
A Thrilling Yet Silly Exploration of Climate Anxiety
*The Rapture* boldly takes on issues related to climate change, corporate greed, and societal indifference. However, it does so with a tone that often veers into the realm of the ludicrous. The series draws inspiration from classic thrillers like *Edge of Darkness*, but instead of crafting a grim narrative, it opts for a lighter, almost campy approach to its subject matter.
The show presents a mantra from Leonard’s church: “Every generation deserves hope,” which contrasts sharply with the overwhelming sense of doom perpetuated by the current climate crisis. This silliness, while detracting from the series’ tension, also serves to make it more accessible. Rather than being a heavy-handed critique, *The Rapture* presents itself as an entertaining ride brimming with plot twists and turns.
Performances and Dialogue: A Mixed Bag
While Madeley and Amarteifio gradually deepen their portrayals throughout the series, the performances overall are hampered by dialogue that swings between clunky exposition and overly dramatic lines. Moments such as Gabs’ confession, “I’ve been more focused on saving myself than the planet,” encapsulate the show’s tone—a mix of self-awareness and melodrama.
Rheon’s character attempts to inject energy into the proceedings, but he often finds himself delivering lines that feel more like necessary plot points than genuine dialogue. Ruth Jones, despite her talent, is notably underutilised, leaving audiences wishing for more of her presence.
An Ambitious Yet Lighthearted Entertainment Piece
While *The Rapture* ambitiously intertwines the climate crisis, corporate malfeasance, and the influence of modern faiths, it ultimately prioritises entertainment over deep introspection. The series wraps up its narrative in a way that, while perhaps lacking in substantive conclusions, ensures an enjoyable viewing experience.
The show may be dismissed by some as “disposable,” akin to single-use plastic, yet its ability to engage with pressing issues through a whimsical lens makes it worth a watch.
Why it Matters
In a world increasingly grappling with climate change, *The Rapture* serves as a reminder that narratives surrounding such serious topics need not be grave and somber. By infusing a sense of fun into its storytelling, the series encourages viewers to remain engaged with these critical issues while also finding moments of levity. As entertainment continues to evolve, shows like *The Rapture* highlight the importance of making complex themes accessible, ensuring that the conversation around climate anxiety remains vital and ongoing.
