Watch The Thick of It

The Thick of It is a British political satire television series that aired on BBC Four from 2005 to 2012. The show is a mockumentary-style comedy that offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the inner workings of the British government. It is renowned for its fast-paced dialogue, biting wit, and brutally honest portrayals of political figures.

The series is set in the fictional Department of Social Affairs and Citizenship, but it could very well be any government department in any country in the world. The show prides itself on its ability to point out the absurdity of political bureaucracy and its sheer ineptitude. The audience is shown the daily struggles of the department staff, as they try to put together policies that make sense while dealing with the egos and incompetence of their bosses.

The Thick of It is led by Malcolm Tucker, portrayed by Peter Capaldi, a foul-mouthed, aggressive, and intimidating spin doctor who is the master of the department's media strategy. He knows exactly how to twist the narrative and manipulate the press to make his government look good, no matter how ridiculous their policies may be. Tucker's greatest strength is his ability to intimidate and bully his colleagues, who are all too afraid to cross him.

Chris Langham plays Hugh Abbot, the Minister for Social Affairs and Citizenship, who operates in a constant state of panic, trying to fend off Tucker's constant criticisms and insults. Abbot is portrayed as a hapless figure who is not quite sure of what he's doing and constantly relies on his staff to help him navigate the treacherous waters of government.

Rebecca Front plays Nicola Murray, who takes over as Minister for Social Affairs and Citizenship after Abbot falls from grace. Murray is a much more serene and composed character compared to Abbot, but this does not make her job any easier. With Tucker breathing down her neck, Murray must learn to navigate the world of politics and media manipulation quickly.

Chris Addison plays Oliver Reeder, Abbot's advisor, who is a constant thorn in Tucker's side. Reeder is sarcastic and witty, but also incredibly self-serving, always looking to make himself look good at the expense of others. The rivalry between Reeder and Tucker is one of the most entertaining aspects of the show.

Joanna Scanlan and James Smith play Terri Coverley and Glenn Cullen, respectively, two of the department's most senior civil servants. Coverley is a powerful figure in the office, feared by many, but also someone who is fiercely loyal to her colleagues. Cullen, on the other hand, is more laid back and easygoing, but just as cunning as the rest of them.

The Thick of It also features a host of supporting characters, including Roger Allam as Peter Mannion, the shadow minister for Social Affairs and Citizenship, and Will Smith as Phil Smith, a hapless junior researcher who is constantly getting in trouble.

The show's humor is incredibly dry and often quite dark, but it is also incredibly intelligent and engaging. Its depiction of political bureaucracy is scathing and brutally honest, and the characters are all fully formed and well-rounded. The Thick of It never shies away from the uglier aspects of politics but always manages to find humor in them.

Overall, The Thick of It is a brilliantly written, superbly acted, and consistently hilarious show that is equal parts insightful and entertaining. It is one of the best political satires ever made and a must-watch for anyone interested in the murky world of politics.

The Thick of It is a series that is currently running and has 5 seasons (34 episodes). The series first aired on May 19, 2005.