Sally Wainwright’s latest series, Riot Women, marks her return to terrestrial television following the impactful conclusion of Happy Valley in 2023. The new drama, centered on an all-female punk band in West Yorkshire, significantly surpasses expectations, showcasing Wainwright’s storytelling prowess, reports BritPanorama.
The protagonists, navigating the complexities of midlife, grapple with aging parents and adult children, all while experiencing the challenges of perimenopause. Wainwright escalates the tension from Happy Valley, channeling a sense of urgency and discontent as the characters confront societal norms and personal crises.
In a poignant scene, Beth (portrayed by Joanna Scanlan) prepares to take her own life when she receives a call from her friend Jess (Lorraine Ashbourne), who asks her if she wants to join a rock band. This unexpected invitation sparks a newfound desire within Beth to express herself through music.
Ashbourne delivers a compelling performance as the pub landlady and aspiring drummer who spearheads the band for a local talent contest. Despite her weariness, she embodies a simmering rebellion that resonates throughout the series.
As the band collectively assembles, Holly (Tamsin Greig), facing her final shift as a police officer, finds herself navigating chaos when called to resolve a disturbance in a supermarket. Kitty (Rosalie Craig), an unpredictable presence, adds complexity as she grapples with personal turmoil following a breakup.
The climactic moment comes when Beth hears Kitty singing karaoke in a pub, prompting her to realize the potential of adding Kitty to the band. This pivotal development raises the stakes: Kitty’s volatile nature could either elevate the band or jeopardize their ambitions.
Complementing this ensemble, seasoned actresses Sue Johnston and Anne Reid portray pivotal roles in depicting the aging experience, addressing issues of identity and memory loss.
Wainwright has drawn from her personal experiences as a caregiver to craft Riot Women. She adeptly captures the often-overlooked challenges faced by middle-aged women, portraying their struggles against the backdrop of broader societal expectations. The series urges viewers to consider the deep reservoirs of unexpressed emotion and energy that could be unleashed.
As the band deliberates their first performance, Beth makes a decisive choice by selecting a Rolling Stones cover, “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction,” a choice reflective of their aspiration to resonate with women everywhere.
Riot Women continues next Sunday at 9pm on BBC One
