I haven't done this in quite a while and I always find it quite a therapeutic experience so here goes...
Let's start off with some positives - the things I'm really enjoying in Coronation Street at the moment.
After worrying a lot about the Ken and Audrey storyline I've actually quite taken to the idea. To a certain extent I buy into Stuart Blackburn's notion that widowed men move on and find new partners quite quickly following the loss of a loved one. It does seem soon after the death of Deirdre but of course perhaps my judgement is skewed because we lost Anne Kirkbride in real life too. Apart from Ken and Audrey living cheek by jowl for decades without the slightest hint of an interest, I think a companionship storyline could work well if done properly.
Another thing I've changed my mind on is the character of Erica. For a long time I just couldn't see the point of her and I didn't buy the relationship with Nick at all. Recent scenes with Dev and particularly with Liz have changed my opinion. Liz needs a friend around her own age and Erica fits well. The two actresses obviously get on and there is good chemistry between the pair so I'm glad Erica is sticking around. I still think Nessa would be better behind the Corner Shop counter mind you...
I must also praise the Nazir family. I wasn't sure of them for a long while, but Alya's recent grimness aside, I've warmed to them. Sharif is still my least favourite of the bunch but I think Yasmeen, Alya and Zeedan have really come into their own following the demise of Kal. I didn't like Kal at all so perhaps this has something to do with it. Shelley King has really done well as Yasmeen and I'd like to see the softer side of Zeedan more often - his scenes with Leanne were superb.
Believe it or not, I actually quite like the new Connors. I think Kate in particular has the potential for a great Corrie character. She's fresh, sparky and full of life. Let's hope life in Weatherfield doesn't trample too much on these excellent qualities. She has also struck up a lovely friendship with Kirk which is surprising but rather touching. Johnny Connor fits into the classic Mike Baldwin mode and I like Richard Hawley's work so far. I've said before that I'm also a fan of Shayne Ward as Aidan (and not just because of those lovely tight shirts he always seems to be wearing). I know it feels like another deluge of characters but so far, so good.
I have also loved seeing Eva Price return to our screens. Catherine Tyldesley is an absolute joy and her relationship with half sister Leanne is both real and touching. It has added an extra dimension to the simmering Simon storyline and it's great to see Eva support her sister in this way.
Finally, I must say how much I've enjoyed the recent scenes featuring Craig and his new girlfriend Caitlin. Colson Smith is such a fantastic young actor and I love that he's had a lot more screen time this year. It's nice to see him get a girlfriend and for the Street to show a responsible young couple for a change. They are a pairing I will always root for.
Now, for the lows. As always, Corrie can't please me all the time and there are a few niggles for me to share.
To begin, I am heartily sick of all the drama at the Platt house. They have dominated our screens for the entire year and I think the powers that be are in danger of wearing these characters out. The Callum saga was dreadful and it shows no signs of coming to an end even now he's dead. I just couldn't give a monkeys what happens to them all. Bringing Sarah and Bethany back hasn't worked for me either. I really do think all these characters need to be rested in the Corrie Cupboard for a while but I don't see that happening.
I'm sorry to say this but I also don't think the latest misery to befall Tyrone and Fiz is working either. I will always have a soft spot for Tyrone - Alan Halsall plays him superbly and I can't imagine Corrie without him. I have totally gone off Fiz though. She's such a nagging, annoying piece of work these days, meddling in everyone's business. I don't like the Hope storyline and despite the serious nature of it all, I just don't believe in it.
Another thing I have a problem with is Tracy Barlow. What happened to all that remorse she felt for causing the deaths of Kal and Maddie and allowing Carla to carry all that guilt? Hadn't Robert persuaded her to turn over a new leaf? Hadn't the loss of Deirdre made Tracy see life differently? No, apparently that storyline has hit the floor like a pair of Underworld knickers with a dodgy gusset. Tracy is back in full spiteful nasty b*tch mode and the whole act is wearing thin. If even the death of her own mother can't change her then clearly the character is beyond salvation and it's time for her to toddle off.
And now for some minor grumbles...
Why does Anna Windass have to be such a shrew all the time? She's nasty and mean spirited. Who's idea was it to put Carla with Nick? In reality she'd have chewed him up and spat him out a long time ago. Sophie Webster as a business woman, strutting about that garage forecourt? Sigh. And I don't get Sean and Billy the vicar at all. Finally, can someone explain the point of the following characters: Izzy, Todd, Norris, Andy, Sinead and Chesney? Just what do they add?
I think that's enough to be going on with! On the whole, I do think Corrie is in a better state at present than it has been in quite some time. I may live to eat my words though...
You can follow me on Twitter @GraemeN82
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