In tonight's Corrie, Leanne and Steve face their second day in court, and as the family judges seem to be deciding Oliver’s fate, Leanne puts in the fight of her life. Although the inevitable end to this storyline is rapidly coming upon us, I’ve enjoyed this storyline. I mean as a Corrie fan, drama fan, and as a father, this storyline has seeped into my conscious just like Aidan’s suicide and Sinead’s demise. A story that has made me think, discuss the storyline issues with my wife, even mortality itself!
I know Leanne’s reactions have polarised viewers, but my word, some incredible performances have been played out recently, and no more so than tonight. Leanne’s heartbreaking plea for clemency as her little boy lays dying, Simon’s brotherly defence, Steve's looking on forlornly and the affectionate play at his son’s bedside - Corrie at the top of its game!
It’s also good to see the factory back in the mix, isn’t it! Is Todd’s reincarnation as a knicker salesman, part of this revival? The double-entendres and workplace banter is a welcome relief, with all things considered, and Sarah’s screaming match with amorous husband Adam was rather fun too. I know we’ve seen the whole ‘factory staff fracas/ knicker businessman walks in at the wrong moment’ trope a million times over, but still, it worked a treat. Carla coming back from her hols and getting straight on it was a joy as well, glad to she’s back to her best! Whether collaring Alina or chastising Sarah - she’s a tour de force and as always - the voice of reason. Can she simmer Paul and Todd’s jealous catfight?
Billy’s ecumenical job prospects have also prospered regardless of Paul’s drunken shenanigans. I’ve still no idea what an Archdeacon is/does yet as a devout disciple of Coronation Street, I am all for it! Ridiculous onesies aside, I quite like Paul, I just wonder where this storyline is heading? The temptation of Todd for a newly promoted man of the cloth... we shall see.
Less obvious, is where Nick and Leanne are going to end up in all this? As Steve and Leanne have inevitably grown closer, surrogate ‘Dad’ Nick has been pushed aside and I think, quite unfairly. The heart-to-heart with Toyah tonight added more weight to the narrative, Toyah is going to defend her sister of course but I think she was playing devil’s advocate there.
The devil is also in the detail and sadly, the court's decision is one that we were all expecting. What’s best for Oliver is undoubtedly the worse possible outcome for his parents.
Like I said at the beginning of this review, Leanne has never been one to shy away from a fight, but sadly this isn't one she can win.
Wednesday's are always my favourite episodes, and for obvious reasons, but these past few weeks have been incredible!
What are your thoughts?
I am @rybazoxo your Corrie connoisseur
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