A 30-yearnew BBC drama Marriage started on our TV screens on Sunday (August 14) night - but many viewers took to social media during the programme saying they had been left 'disappointed'. The four-part series stars Sean Bean (Game of Thrones, Time) and Nicola Walker (The Split, Unforgotten) as couple Ian and Emma.
It gives a glimpse into their relationship as they navigate the ups and downs of their 30 year marriage. The opening episode started with the pair's journey home from holiday and they had an argument over a jacket potato, Birmingham Live reports.
Viewers were then introduced to the couple's family - including Emma's dad played by New Tricks star James Bolam - friends and colleagues. It went on to show Ian struggling to adjust following his redundancy and they were both less than impressed after meeting their daughter's new boyfriend.
But those who had tuned in to watch the new drama were quick to take to Twitter to share their views and whilst some said it was a "slow burn" and that they would stick with it - many said they had been left "disappointed". A number of viewers commented that the pace was too slow, and others added how it was the lack of dialogue that had led them to 'switch off'.
Joanne Whitfield said: "A bit disappointed with the first episode of #marriage on BBC1 tonight, given the cast line up and TV guide ratings. All a bit mundane, and very slow moving with very little actually happening. But will give the second episode a chance tomorrow." Ethan added: "blimey #Marriage was boring, I had high hopes based on the lead actors but was sorely let down by the slow pace and lack of actual context/storyline."
Victoria Dunleavy added: "So just watched #marriage so disappointed, two great lead actors, in an anxiety inducing episode and not through excitement or expectation…. Because they didn’t speak for 10 minutes loading the dishwasher!" Keith posted: "I give up. After 30 mins I’ve switched over to any other programme than watch this rubbish #marriage."
Phill Harris tweeted: "What on earth is #marriage on the old @BBC all about. Managed 20 minutes and gave up. This does not fit Sean Bean one bit." David Muhl added: "Well I gave it 35 minutes and I was almost asleep! Such a shame cos 2 great actors! Not for me this #marriage."
The sound also seemed to be a problem for some viewers. Carolyn Wheel said: "Was really looking forward to seeing this, but I'm very disappointed. Unbelievably slow and the sound is abysmal. Complete waste of two brilliant actors. #marriage." Jen Gally added: "#marriage what's wrong with the sound, had to turn it right up to hear the dialogue well I say dialogue, what there was of it, very poor, waste of two good actors."
Lucy Ward said: "Turned the sound up on #marriage cos couldn’t hear it properly then the theme tune scared me half to death." Kazzie also tweeted: "Was really looking forward to #Marriage on @BBCOne but the sound quality is so abysmal I had to give up. Either too loud or too quiet with no hope of understanding any the dialogue."
BBC Marriage continues tonight on BBC One from 9pm. You can stream the full series now over on the BBC iPlayer.
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