Seven reasons to start a relationship with The Affair

http://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2015/may/10/us-tv-series-the-affair-dominic-west-ruth-wilson

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After a tantalising seven-month wait since its US transmission, acclaimed and angsty relationship drama The Affair finally arrives on Sky Atlantic this week, launching with a double bill (Wednesday at 9pm). Here are seven reasons to tune in…

1. It’s big on British talentCraggy Yorkshireman Dominic West (AKA McNulty from The Wire) and Lamda alumnus Ruth Wilson (mad Alice from Luther) star in the compelling 10-part series, which is taglined: “Danger lies in losing control”. Think Gone Girl meets True Detective.

2. It’s gobbled up awardsIt was a double winner at this year’s Golden Globes, crowned best drama series above the likes of Downton Abbey and Game of Thrones, while Wilson scooped the best actress gong, beating such heavyweights as Claire Danes, Viola Davis, Julianna Margulies and Robin Wright.

3. It’s got a good pedigreeThe Affair is the brainchild of Sarah Treem and Hagai Levi, who co-created lauded HBO psychiatry drama In Treatment. Treem is also an Emmy-nominated writer on Netflix hit House of Cards. In front of the camera, leading pair West and Wilson are strongly supported by Joshua Jackson (Pacey from Dawson’s Creek) and Maura Tierney (Dr Abby Lockhart from ER).

4. It’s highly addictiveThe titular fling starts when Brooklyn schoolteacher-cum-novelist Noah (West), wife Helen (Tierney) and their four kids escape the city for a beach break in Montauk, Long Island. A chance encounter with enigmatic waitress Alison (Wilson) at local diner the Lobster Roll sets in motion an extramarital affair, with its emotional and psychological effects fascinatingly explored.

5. It’s a tale of two narratorsThe story is told from both Noah’s and Alison’s perspectives – not always reliably, as their memories of the same events often differ wildly. Misdirection and mystery result. But who to believe? Stakes are further raised when a cop starts sniffing around, while we learn that Alison is coping with the aftermath of a personal tragedy.

6. The soundtrack and setting are stylishAn atmospheric, largely a capella track, Container by alt-rocker Fiona Apple, plays over the haunting opening credits. The soundtrack also includes Johnny Cash, Devendra Banhart, Dolly Parton, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Yo La Tengo and Elbow. You’ll end up coveting the Hamptons houses, surfer-esque lifestyle and outdoor showers, too.

7. It’ll be backIt’s provocative, unpredictable, passionate – and US network Showtime has already renewed it for a second series.