Nightsleeper: A Mismatched Attempt at High-Speed Drama

The new BBC thriller series, “Nightsleeper,” presents an intriguing premise set on a sleeper train journeying from Glasgow to London. While this concept invites metaphoric jabs at the UK rail system, this show endeavors to merge various elements into a high-stakes narrative.

“Nightsleeper” opens on a seemingly routine overnight train journey which abruptly turns perilous when an unknown hacker seizes control, placing the train and its passengers in jeopardy. In true “Die Hard” fashion, off-duty police officer Joe Roag, portrayed by Joe Cole, becomes the reluctant hero. He attempts to liberate the hostages through the guidance of Abby Aysgarth, an operative from the National Cyber Security Centre, depicted by Alexandra Roach.

Alongside these protagonists is a roster of passengers who seem crafted to spark interpersonal conflicts: a disfavored government minister, an inquisitive journalist, a vocal anti-woke commentator, a spirited young liberal, and a woman with a complex past among others. The narrative explores whether they can find common purpose amidst crisis.

While the show possesses the potential to examine deeper societal issues, its execution often falls into trope-laden territory. It frequently resorts to clichéd dialogues and predictable plot sequences, detracting from its potential as a compelling thriller.

Technical discussions veer into predictable “technobabble,” only to be translated into layman’s terms by less tech-savvy characters—a narrative device that borders on repetitive. Furthermore, the frequent use of humor, ostensibly meant as comic relief, undermines the tension, shifting the tone closer to a comedic drama.

However, the performances, particularly by leads Cole and Roach, strive to elevate the material. Despite narrative shortcomings, their ability to depict a realistic connection, even when primarily communicating via phone, stands out. The ensemble cast, while not offering standout performances, contributes adequately to the unfolding drama.

In its attempt to straddle various themes—action, comedy, and social commentary—”Nightsleeper” often struggles to find a coherent tone. Though it aims for a sleek, modern presentation, with action scenes depicting the dim exterior of a high-speed train, it fails to deliver the adrenaline-fueled excitement typical of successful thrillers.

The complexity of its narrative, interwoven with social issues, may not resonate with all audiences, potentially offering ammunition to those critical of its execution. Despite being an ambitious project, “Nightsleeper” serves as a reminder of the challenges of blending genre elements cohesively.