State of Play

NOTE:

The series "State of Play" was originally released in 2003 by the BBC network, not 2013. The following information is based on the British television drama serial "State of Play", released in 2003.

About State of Play

"State of Play" is a six-part British television drama serial, penned by Paul Abbott. It aired on BBC One from May to June, 2003. The plot revolves around the intricate relationship between the government, the police, and the press as presented by a murder mystery that unfolds over six hour-long episodes.

Making / Production

The series was written by Paul Abbott and directed by David Yates. Produced by Hilary Bevan Jones, it was a collaborative effort of BBC and the independent production company Endor Productions.

Actors

• John Simm plays the character of Cal McCaffrey, a relentless journalist. Cal is passionate and determined to uncover the truth and his mission unearths a complex web of political and personal deceit.
• David Morrissey portrays Stephen Collins, a Member of Parliament and Cal's former Campaign Manager. His personal tragedy rapidly escalates into a shocking political scandal.
• As Della Smith, Kelly Macdonald is another journalist who works alongside Cal. She brings her skilled investigative reporting to the team.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The series was later adapted into a 2009 feature film of the same name.
• Its writer, Paul Abbott, is also known for his work on other popular series like "Shameless" and "No Offence".

Awards

"State of Play" garnering critical acclaim, won a BAFTA Award for Best Drama Serial in 2004, and a Peabody Award in 2005. The star-studded cast was equally celebrated for their performances, particularly Bill Nighy who scooped a Best Actor award at the Royal Television Society Awards.

Quotes

• "You can't trust anyone who drinks coffee at this hour." - Cal McCaffrey
• "Politics is a game to these people, not a bloody vocation." - Cal
• "Faith is the reason their world stays as small as it does." - Stephen Collins

Music, Soundtrack

• The original music for the series was composed by Nicholas Hooper.
• Hoopers music became part of the identity of the show, providing the perfect eery backdrop to the investigative drama unfolding on screen.