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In the discussions surrounding modern “cancel culture,” it’s easy to perceive it as a new trend born from today’s digital landscape. However, the concept dates back approximately 5,000 years, rooted in the practice of damnatio memoriae, where the names and histories of individuals were expunged from written records in ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt. The principle behind this form of social ostracism has endured, evolving from private actions into highly publicized debacles in the age of social media. The new limited series Douglas Is Cancelled offers a keen exploration of social outrage and the onset of cancellation, capturing the essence of damnatio memoriae in contemporary society.
The Tweet Heard Around the World
4 / 5
Release Date: 2024 – 2023
Network: ITV1
Directors: Ben Palmer
Pros & Cons
Douglas Is Cancelled showcases Karen Gillan’s exceptional performance alongside an equally talented cast. The initial episodes are breezy and humorous, delivering a poignant message wrapped in drama.
However, the series does at times lean into one-dimensional character portrayals that feel overly stereotypical.
Now streaming on BritBox, Douglas Is Cancelled examines the fallout from a single social media post that impacts everyone connected to the evening news program Live at Six. Co-hosted by seasoned journalist Douglas Bellowes (Hugh Bonneville) and the dynamic Madeline Crow (Karen Gillan), their compelling chemistry leads to speculation about a possible romantic connection, complicated by Douglas’s commitment to his family. The drama unfolds shortly after a wedding celebration where Douglas, perhaps a bit too indulgent, finds himself at the center of controversy following a tweet alleging he made a sexist joke during the festivities—a claim he struggles to recall. As the situation escalates, his producer Toby (Ben Miles) grapples with how to proceed.
The tweet lacks context, originating from an account with only a few hundred followers. While the incident initially seems trivial, it begins to spiral as Douglas’s wife Sheila (played by Alex Kingstone), who is an editor at a tabloid, experiences anxiety over the situation. Matters worsen when Madeline, boasting a following of two million, amplifies the post with her own comment that leaves interpretation open: Is she defending Douglas or distancing herself from him?
A Funny Cast Led by Karen Gillan at Her Best
The opening episodes of Douglas Is Cancelled brim with energy, reminiscent of The Thick of It and Bonneville’s past sitcoms like Twenty Twelve and W1A. This lively atmosphere is due to stellar performances, brisk direction from Ben Palmer, and clever writing by Steven Moffat, known for hits like Coupling, Sherlock, and Doctor Who. However, Moffat’s attempt at social commentary sometimes falters with overt stereotypes, particularly regarding Gen Z. Douglas’s daughter, Claudie (portrayed by Madeleine Power), comes across as a caricature of a “woke” youth, a striking contrast to the more nuanced adult characters.
Fortunately, Moffat adeptly crafts older characters like Douglas, making him relatable amid the chaos. Madeline emerges as the most intriguing character, brought to life by Gillan’s layered and enigmatic performance—as she shifts in demeanor, viewers are left guessing her true motivations and loyalties.
A Comedy Becomes a Drama
Despite the presence of talented comedians like Nick Mohammed and Joe Wilkinson, their characters feel underdeveloped, overshadowed by the stronger arcs of others in the cast. Nevertheless, the performances of Simon Russell Beale, Alex Kingstone, and Gillan command attention, balancing humor with weighty emotional stakes.
What We Talk About When We Talk About Being Cancelled
Throughout history, the notion of cancellation has been prevalent, but today’s climate, fueled by social media, amplifies the outrage directed at individuals deemed offensive. Often, this form of public judgment is wielded by those on the political right, targeting anything that challenges their worldview—be it discussions around critical race theory, LGBTQ+ issues, or activism surrounding human rights.
Conversely, when the left seeks to “cancel” public figures, the repercussions frequently lack permanence; many continue to thrive despite the backlash, as seen with personalities like Louis C.K. and Dave Chappelle, who have garnered accolades post-cancellation. The concept of “cancellation” may sometimes serve as a narrative device rather than a definitive social verdict.
Ultimately, Douglas Is Cancelled goes beyond a mere exploration of cancel culture, delving into the “compliance culture” that often enables silence around serious issues, such as assault and abuse. It highlights how the bystander effect solidifies complicity, reminding us that even well-intentioned individuals can contribute to a culture of silence. Through its rich storytelling, Douglas Is Cancelled serves as a poignant reminder of the intricate balance between accountability and complicity.
Source
movieweb.com