Despite its focus on “losers, misfits, and boozers,” as Mick Jagger’s theme song puts it, Apple TV+’s “Slow Horses” is an undeniable triumph. Premiering in April 2022, the series quickly established itself as a standout in the streaming world. Now in its fourth season, which debuts today, the show has garnered critical acclaim and a slew of Emmy nominations for its third season. A fifth season has already been filmed, underscoring its growing popularity.
The series centers on the “Slow Horses” of the title, former MI5 agents relegated to the dreary Slough House—a place described by author Mick Herron as an “administrative oubliette.” These agents, who have either failed in their missions or are battling personal demons, find themselves in a run-down office with minimal communication. Their ultimate goal is to return to “the Park,” MI5’s prestigious headquarters, though no one has ever managed to do so. Jackson Lamb, portrayed by Gary Oldman, is the grizzled leader of Slough House, tasked with managing these disgraced spies.
Oldman’s portrayal of Lamb is a masterclass in unvarnished realism. His disheveled appearance, replete with unkempt hair and ragged clothes, contrasts sharply with the polished image of classic spies like James Bond or John Le Carré’s George Smiley. Lamb’s persona—marked by flatulence, heavy drinking, and a general air of unkemptness—could not be further from the suave and sophisticated spy archetype. Yet, beneath the grime and sarcasm, Lamb is a shrewd and competent operative, a reflection of Herron’s assertion that he is a former hero disillusioned with his own past.
Lamb’s interactions with his staff are characterized by biting sarcasm and harsh critiques, but there’s a deeper layer of care beneath his gruff exterior. His superior, Diana Taverner (Kristin Scott Thomas), epitomizes the high-maintenance side of MI5, and while she is repelled by Lamb, she respects his expertise.
Helen Lewis, a staff writer at The Atlantic, describes Slough House as a “twisted kind of family.” She notes that Lamb, despite his gruff demeanor, is relatable to viewers who feel trapped in bureaucratic systems. This blend of dark humor, drama, and action is a hallmark of “Slow Horses,” which features an ensemble cast including Jack Lowden, Saskia Reeves, and Rosalind Eleazar. The show keeps viewers on edge with its willingness to kill off characters and its compelling storylines.
The series remains faithful to Herron’s novels, which began slowly but gained momentum after the success of “Dead Lions,” the second book in the series. With over three million copies sold, Herron’s work has been compared to literary greats like Evelyn Waugh and Raymond Chandler. Herron’s detailed and gritty depiction of MI5 and its internal politics adds a layer of authenticity to the show.
“Slow Horses” also benefits from Apple TV+’s willingness to invest in high-quality production. For example, an expensive but memorable scene involving a double-decker bus crash was retained despite its minimal impact on the plot. The show’s setting—a rundown office in contrast to the sleek MI5 headquarters—serves as a metaphor for Britain’s decline from its former glory.
Despite occasional criticism that each season is too brief, with only six episodes per season, the show’s tight and engaging storytelling is praised for its efficiency. Actor Christopher Chung admires the show’s ability to pack complex narratives and character development into a concise format.
With its continued success and expansion into five seasons, “Slow Horses” shows no signs of slowing down. The series is based on eight novels, with a new installment set for release this year, and Apple TV+ has already greenlit a new adaptation of Herron’s detective series. As long as Gary Oldman and Mick Herron are involved, “Slow Horses” seems poised for a long and successful run.
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