Code of Silence Review: Rose Ayling-Ellis Shines in this Fun and Fascinating Show
Rose Ayling-Ellis, the talented actress known for her roles in EastEnders and Doctor Who, has once again proven her versatility in the new ITV thriller, Code of Silence. According to a review by The Guardian, Ayling-Ellis’s performance as Alison, a deaf woman who becomes embroiled in a police investigation, is a "triumph" in this "fun and fascinating show".
In the series, Alison works in a police canteen and becomes increasingly involved in an investigation into a violent criminal gang. As she works closely with the investigation team, she begins to accumulate valuable information, despite not being an official part of the team. Her character, and Ayling-Ellis’s performance, brings a fresh perspective to the conventional plot.
The review, published on The Guardian website, praises Ayling-Ellis’s portrayal of Alison, stating that she "carries things convincingly". The show’s attention to detail regarding the experiences of deaf people is also commended, with the review noting that "there are plentiful details, grace notes really, that evoke the reality of life as a deaf person".
One notable example of this attention to detail is the way in which Alison lip-reads from feeds in the office. Initially, only partial subtitles appear, lacking mostly consonants, and resolve into words as Alison works out via common sense and context what they must be saying. This portrayal highlights the effort and leaps involved in lip-reading, and demonstrates the show’s commitment to authenticity.
The review also notes that the show gently dismantles the assumptions of hearing people, with Alison’s character facing various barriers to employment and everyday communication. Her frustration with these challenges is palpable, as she sighs that she doesn’t want to be hearing; rather, "I just want them to be a little bit deaf. Really fed up with trying to prove myself."
The cast of Code of Silence, including Andrew Buchan and Charlotte Ritchie, also receive praise for their performances. The show’s plot, while not particularly innovative, is carried convincingly by the strength of the cast.
In conclusion, Code of Silence is a "fine and fun" ITV thriller that is elevated by Rose Ayling-Ellis’s "triumph" of a performance. The show’s attention to detail regarding the experiences of deaf people, and its commitment to authenticity, make it a standout in the genre.
As The Guardian notes, "You can watch and learn – or at least newly appreciate an underacknowledged world – without being shortchanged on your entertainment at all. That’s quite a triumph." With Code of Silence now available on ITVX, viewers can experience this fascinating and entertaining show for themselves.
The Guardian’s review of Code of Silence highlights the show’s potential to educate and entertain audiences, and it is clear that Rose Ayling-Ellis’s performance is a major factor in its success. As the show continues to air, it is likely that audiences will be drawn to its unique blend of entertainment and authenticity.
Code of Silence is a must-watch for fans of thrillers and those interested in stories about deaf culture. With its talented cast and attention to detail, it is sure to be a hit with audiences.
The show’s portrayal of the challenges faced by deaf people is both informative and thought-provoking, and it is clear that the show’s creators have made a concerted effort to represent deaf culture accurately.
Overall, Code of Silence is a compelling and entertaining show that is well worth watching. With its talented cast, attention to detail, and commitment to authenticity, it is a standout in the genre.
Code of Silence is now available on ITVX, and viewers can watch it for themselves.
