Netflix: What did we think of Black Doves, the new spy thriller starring Keira Knightley?

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Set against the backdrop of London at Christmas, Black Doves is an action-packed and sensitive story of friendship and sacrifice. It follows Helen Webb, a quick-witted, down-to-earth, devoted wife and mother…and professional spy. For ten years, Helen has been passing on the secrets of her husband, a politician, Wallace, to the mysterious organization she works for.

When her lover Jason is murdered, her mentor, the mysterious Reed, calls on Helen’s old friend Sam to protect her. Together, they try to find out who killed Jason and why, starting an investigation that leads them to discover a huge conspiracy with many consequences. Between London’s underworld and an imminent geopolitical crisis, they will have to question their moral choices.

Black Pigeons, a series created by Joe Burton starring Keira Knightley, Ben Whishaw, Andrew Codge… Episodes watched: 6 of 6

who is he with

In Black Doves, Keira Knightley plays Helen Webb, a brilliant spy and a loyal woman so perfect that it might seem suspicious… She combines tenderness and cruelty in an impressive performance. We really discover it differently, we get another dimension.

Ben Whishaw (Skyfall, This Is Going To Hurt) plays Sam, a wannabe hit man who is in exile and haunted by his past, while Sarah Lancashire (Happy Valley) is almost unrecognizable as Reid, the ruthless boss of the mysterious organization Black Pigeons.

Alongside them, Andrew Codge (Warrior) plays Jason, Helen’s mysterious lover, and Andrew Buchan (Broadchurch) plays Wallace Webb, Helen’s husband and a rising figure in British politics. The cast includes Omar Douglas (It’s a Sin), who plays Sam’s ex, and a cast of colorful characters, from a duo of hilarious assassins to Machiavellian politicians.

is it worth watching

Absolutely! Black Doves boasts a successful mix of action, comedy and drama with some nice emotional moments. Helen and Sam’s complicated relationship forms the heart of the series. Their steadfast friendship in all circumstances, including the most dangerous, offers moments both touching and poignant. Joe Burton, already acclaimed for The Lazarus Project, delivers a multi-faceted performance here, supported by crisp dialogue and dynamic staging.

Although the political plot surrounding the Sino-British incident may seem clichéd at times, the sub-plots and performances of the actors keep viewers hooked throughout the six episodes. The constant tension and twists guarantee immediate addiction, and the series strikes a perfect balance between effective action scenes and moments of introspection.

Keira Knightley like we’ve never seen her before

If we are used to seeing Keira Knightley in historical and romantic roles (from Pride and Prejudice to Anna Karenina), she reveals herself as an action hero. And in a much more interesting way than in Pirates of the Caribbean. We did not imagine that this type would fit him like a glove. It amazes with its intensity – sometimes with a simple look, sometimes revealed in a fight scene – and its ambivalent charm.

Here she embodies a complex character, both vulnerable (because she succumbed to the sirens of love) and unforgiving. Which makes him a revenge hero like Kill Bill, British style. His transformation into a spy who can juggle international conspiracies and family commitments is both compelling and inspiring. While many women have identified Keira Knightley as a glamor model, she may just be starting a trend for badass chic.

Knightley literally dazzles in this series, where he combines the action scenes with a physicality and calmness that we did not know from him. She plays Elena with such power that every movement, every look seems to be charged with emotions. In the most tense moments, her performance is disarmingly precise, revealing the flaws of a character that is both powerful and deeply human. Thanks to its performance and good writing, Black Pigeons clearly rises to the top of the most successful spy thrillers of recent years.