New on Netflix - Collateral. Just another crime thriller, or damaging political drama?

In the opening scenes, Collateral might just be another crime thriller to join the already packed ranks of Netflix's mediocre new mini-series'. However, following the lacklustre introduction, acclaimed playwright David Hare delves into the hot-bed political climate of contemporary Britain, even taking a shot at the US led war in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Fortunately, unlike its uninspiring neighbours, Collateral develops far beyond a simple 'whodunit', as the show begins to capture the killer mindset and circumstances that developed the crime. Hare is able to cleverly relate to the misapplied approach to immigration policy of the British parliament and the ensuing waves of racism and xenophobia.

Furthermore, Hare is able to stretch his theatrical muscles in the second half of the season, as tension is found, dripping out of two characters talking, palpable to a killer stalking its prey - however credit must go to series director S.J. Clarkson. Such refuses to stale as the occasionally cheeky approach to score and seamless transitions between scenes urge the plot-lines along at cracking pace.

What may be the calling card of the series however, is its ability to resolve in its entirety the crammed story-line to a perfectly well-rounded degree - leaving apparently no ends untied.

Among the myriad series being pumped out on Netflix - I applaud Hare for outstripping the rest and being the clear shining star for your next binge.

- Sam Orchard.