Coronation Street double episode review, Friday 3 February 2017

If anything summed up Friday’s double Corrie for me, it was Nick picking apart a rose with that beleaguered face he seems to be permanently sporting these days. I found myself deflated by the amount of unhappy characters, but there was thankfully a bit of humour, albeit sparse.

Mr. and Mrs. Flintstone’s bedrock is finally exposed when Leanne tries to play matchmaker and unearths a shocking discovery. She suspects nothing when her secret text to ‘Fred’ asking him to come to the flat sees Peter Barlow pitch up. But, on learning from Tim that Peter is seeing a woman called Wilma, she puts two and two together and catches the pair kissing in the flat. Nick’s plans to propose end in rubble, and on learning that Eva knew, Leanne makes her relationship with her two sisters extinct, despite protests from the pair that keeping it secret was for her own good.

I’ve been waiting for Peter and Toyah to whisk me away on an exciting, chemistry infused tryst, but so far, it all feels very tame. I’m not saying they can’t have a normal, everyday relationship, but knowing the chemistry they’ve had with other partners, it seems like something is lacking. Hearing Toyah say that Peter was an escape from the pressure IVF was putting on her marriage had me immediately doubting her reasons for being with him, and now that she wants to set him aboard the same ‘treadmill’, you’d wonder how their relationship will react with this pressure brought into it. He has gone from not wanting another child to agreeing to try for Pebbles Battersby-Barlow even after she told him she would pick a baby over him, and so I’m not sure if they will go the distance. In a way, I hope they yabadabadon't. 

Over at the factory, a scene unfolds which is itself not unworthy of a 1960s American sitcom. Jenny’s idea, to manufacture mastectomy bras, is a great one, and Sally agrees, bringing a group of ladies in to see them at apparently zero notice. But devious Alya throws a spanner in the works by ensuring Johnny will return with a big client in tow just in time to catch the unauthorised meeting. The client threatens to walk until they are provided with some statistics, and learn that one of the ladies is from the Gazette, and smiles abound as it’s all through to the office. Except, that is, for Alya, who may as well have disappeared behind a velvet curtain to plot her revenge in time for the next installment.

Other factory action included Kate telling Johnny she's resigning to take up a job in the Bistro. I really enjoyed this father-daughter scene which was beautifully written and performed, and it will be good to see Kate in a job which will give her more prominence on the street. Could there be a role for Dirk not Kirk in the packing room, with hilarious consequences? Johnny is a current Corrie favourite of mine, and as Jenny agrees to sign his pre-nup for fear anyone would think she wanted his money, he’s delighted.

Kevin is well and truly in the dog house as Anna discovers he was prepared to have her relive the worst experience of her life in order to sue David Platt and save the garage, even though he had already taken a £7,000 handout from Sally. As an aside, it is a wonder that David was never pursued further by Weatherfield Police for driving recklessly up the street with a car full of petrol, and while we’re on the subject of fires, I’m also confused as to which garage, or part thereof, went up in flames. But, in any event, Tyrone is furious to learn Kevin wants to sack Freddie rather than Sophie, and insists they start doing things his way from now on. It’s good to see Tyrone finally stepping up and coming into his own.

Together with every scene Tim is in, another episode highlight is David Platt’s derision at the appearance of Chesney in the salon, disdain for the place on Tile Street where he normally gets his hair cut, and scorn at his request for a style like Ronaldo’s. Alas for poor Chesney, a homemade sandwich, cream bun and even a new do can’t win Sinead back, and she plumps for some salt and vinegar crisps with Daniel in the Rovers. He may look like a man who might just well prefer the Tile Street barber to the salon himself, but that's where the similarities with Chesney end, and I think as a couple, they definitely make more sense.

 

By Emma Hynes

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Coronation Street double episode review, Friday 20 January 2017

Friday’s double bill of Corrie was chock-full of comings and goings which gave it an animated, fast-paced feel as it all built up to a nail biting crescendo. Yes, much like the Gavin he was, but actually wasn’t, Andy’s number was up, and it looked as if my lingering question about Phelan came to be answered; could he kill? It would appear he could.

Not content with getting away, Andy appears intent on clearing Kevin’s name via the CCTV on the laptop before his flit to Portugal with Steph, who goes on ahead of him to the airport as a result. I would’ve thought he’d have been more eager to dispose of any footage of himself doing the deed, but in any event, this leads to the discovery of the compromising footage of Phelan which was his reason for wanting the garage burned down in the first place. And who should come knocking at the key moment, only the man himself, having had chapter and verse from Luke about the couple’s departure, including the fact that Andy will follow her, and is alone in the flat. Considering she witnessed this, I couldn’t quite believe that Steph didn’t even call Andy or send him a text to warn him as she departed.

Phelan, none to pleased to see himself on screen, is furious, and things go from bad to worse when he discovers bumbling Andy’s feeble attempt to goad him into admitting everything while recording him on his phone. Let’s face it, Andy was never made to be a criminal mastermind. It’s even a miracle that he got away with being Gavin for any length. So, you’d think having escaped Phelan’s clutches again by promising to destroy the laptop, he’d leave it at that. But no, Phelan’s distasteful comments about Steph and Michael as he browses through Andy’s phone see him clobber Pat over the head.

The fight which ensued had me on the edge of my seat, not least because we were left hanging for half an hour between episodes, and it was intercut with other storylines. It also had me questioning my very moral fibre as I unconsciously found myself rooting for Pat. What have I become?

The laptop proves to be Andy’s downfall in more ways than one, and as Pat prepares to hightail it to his tardy nuptials with Eileen, he appears to be bundling more than himself into his van. As they stand before the registrar, and the camera pans down to reveal evidence of soil on his shoe, I think we can be pretty certain that Andy has bumbled his last.

I thought this was all brilliantly played out, with Andy’s fear and Pat’s menace perfectly pitched. But the issue I had with it was Steph’s reaction. Considering everything preceding it, not only did she fail to warn Andy that Pat knew everything, she simply accepted a text from him in the airport, which was actually from Pat, telling her she was better off without him, and headed off. How was she not even a small bit concerned or suspicious? Would she not have expected a phone call from Andy, or rang him for ultimate closure? I guess it was a convenient end to it, but not one I could believe.

Meanwhile Eileen Grimshaw, who looked rather splendid on her wedding day, is now Eileen Phelan, much to Todd's regret, and what happens next is anyone’s guess.

Steph will be missed on the street, as will Tisha Merry's performances, as the character had great potential to become involved in a number of storylines. It seemed they were never quite sure what to do with Andy after the Gavin storyline, but I felt his stint as a budding author could have lead to something. I wanted him to be able to say ‘I told you so’ to all those who doubted him. In any event, Oliver Farnworth did a great job, and he’ll be missed.

Michelle’s agony continues as she prepares for Ruairi’s funeral with Billy and seems intent on leaving Steve out of it. There are beautiful scenes when Liz opens her heart about her own loss of baby Katy, and Michelle eventually asks Steve to come home.

Sally proves predictably po-faced at Tim’s purchase of a tandem to make up for the earlier gift of a Weatherfield County Season Ticket, but the sight of Michelle gives her food for thought, and she throws public perception to the wind in favour of a joyful ride around the street, much to her pleasure, and ours. With an added David Platt aside to round this humorous story off, it was a little delight.

Elsewhere, Chesney scores another own goal by bringing Sinead’s venus flytrap to the kebab shop for a gurn-a-thon with Gemma who treats it to a fatal piece of doner. Seeing this as the last straw, Sinead promptly breaks up with him, praise be. There is a bit of confusion, as she seems to agree to give it another go, and then it's off again by the end of the sentence. Either way, this is a couple who definitely need to break up.

Shona is less than happy to see Nathan at the café, and while he’s shocked at the encounter, he seems to take it in his stride. We see the first glimmers of Bethany’s discomfort as he produces a camera and takes her to the tanning salon to film her first hair tutorial. Any doubts she has seem to dissipate however as he flatters and compliments her while they watch the footage back, even suggesting she show more of her figure next time. If you want to find out more about this storyline and what it’s like to play the character of Nathan, you can read my interview with Chris Harper.

Overall, I very much enjoyed this double episode, despite the convenient actions on the part of Steph, and there was a good balance between drama and humour, which is always welcome.

By Emma Hynes

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Coronation Street episode review, Friday 23 December 2016

Christmas arrives early in Weatherfield as Maria’s freedom hangs in the balance, and a crew gather to celebrate the festive season with her before the court appearance which may see her jailed. Eva’s bunny boiler tendencies have taken a back seat of late. She used to see reasons to be suspicious where there were none, yet now is blind to all the signals which show Aidan has feelings for Maria. Even the news that he punched Adam defending her honour is cause for Eva to be proud rather than concerned. There appeared a stronger chance of Kirk guessing that El Greco was the name stuck to his forehead than Eva suspecting anything.

Kirk, along with Beth, Michelle and Steve, provide the comic relief as Aidan and Maria nip out of the party for a snog in the factory. He genuinely does seem to feel terrible about betraying Eva and so, eager to do the right thing, says he’ll break up with her once Maria has left for court, and then follow her there for the hearing. Far be it from me to scupper soap jeopardy, but wouldn't he be better breaking up with her in good time? What if there’s an accident on the ring road? Ooh he’ll be cutting it all very tight for my liking.

They're not alone in the factory, however, and after revealing himself to Aidan, Johnny declares himself less than pleased to have witnessed the carry on. But Aidan tells him he has no choice but to break Eva’s heart. I’m liking this approach, which is a refreshing departure from the interminable hidden affair where both parties try not to get caught and while they inevitably do, it's not before we're well and truly shot of the ducking and diving. I do wonder, however, if Maria will reward him for his decision in the event that he carries it out and she avoids jail, as while she claims to love him, she has seemed quite happy to sleep with Adam.

He nurses his black eye with the rest of the Barlows who are also having an early Christmas celebration, and it all feels nicely cosy and authentic. Peter sneaks about with a present which Tracy notes resembles a cassette and shoves it in a drawer when it’s plucked out for opening. This doesn’t go unnoticed by Nick who appears a petulant child in contrast to Peter's mature serenity. So petty is he that he revels in presenting Simon with a drone, thus dwarfing Peter’s humble and unwelcome gift. Ken, Leanne and Daniel in particular note the disappointment on Peter’s face and Nick’s smugness doesn’t endear him.

Even when Leanne tackles him for being immature, he retorts that he’s a better man and Peter’s a waste of space, leading her to send him packing. Peter continues to succeed in proving him wrong by declaring himself well past playing those games, an assertion which is clearly genuine. While he remains tight lipped on what makes him happy, he does book a hotel room on the sly for himself and a 'Miss Battersby'.

The way things are going of late, Weatherfield police may as well set up an office on the street. This time, they’re around to discuss Bethany’s disappearance with Sarah and Gary. Sarah is horrified to hear that her daughter confessed to being involved with an older man, and furious at Gary for not telling her. Gary then makes a quantum leap to presuming it’s Luke after Norris reports that he saw her upset and being comforted by him the previous night. Luke is promptly pinned to the garage wall, and Kevin breaks up his 129,132nd fight on the street. Clutching her copy of Moxy, Faye looks more than a little perturbed at what she sees.

Billy’s delighted to hear he’s gotten the job at the rehab centre, Steph receives flowers from Phelan, and Andy takes to the medical centre for relief from his headaches and is more than a little abrupt with the doctor whose suggestion of grief counselling in the wake of Michael’s death is given short shrift. Michelle’s expensive telly hits the cobbles courtesy of Tim, Craig and a flimsy box, but at least Norris was on hand with a 'told you so' and a dustpan to make them both feel better.

While we can't be sure of what lies ahead over the next few days, it doesn't feel to me like it's building up to what you'd call an 'explosive' Christmas on the cobbles, but maybe that's a nice thing.

As this is my last Corrie review before Christmas, I hope you all enjoy the celebrations, and may it be a happy and peaceful time for you all.

By Emma Hynes

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Coronation Street double episode review, Friday 16 December 2016

'Tis the season to be gathered around a hospital bed in Weathie General, and this time it’s the Grimshaws’ turn in the wake of Andy’s assault on Phelan. It was all nicely set up for Kevin to be prime suspect after being foiled in an earlier attempt to attack him on Anna’s behalf, and her poison pen letters add insult to injury as word spreads of what was a frankly barmy deed.

I thought it was interesting that Andy saw fit to clobber Phelan over the head without apparently considering there may be consequences to doing so; perhaps his departure into the world of horror writing lead him to blur reality with fantasy. He squirms and swallows hard throughout both episodes and engages in the cowardly act of essentially framing Kevin when Weatherfield’s finest constabulary come a-knocking. I enjoyed Kevin’s unapologetic hatred of Phelan when he was questioned, but the police seem unconvinced of his innocence, as is Eileen.

Weatherfield Police are certainly kings of convenience as they seem happy to go the most obvious route, even if it's the wrong one. The dodgy flats were mentioned to them several times, yet they appeared uninterested in the fact that the scam has played no small part in ensuring Phelan has more enemies than friends.

As each month passes, the intricacies of Phelan’s malevolence are revealed in a quiet and measured way which is reflective of his very demeanour. It is all so subtle, so calmly devastating, and it’s brilliant. After being forced to visit him, we couldn’t be sure if it was Andy’s discomfort that saw Phelan double bluff him into revealing that he was his attacker, or if he had actually seen him in the second before impact. Having watched Thursday’s episode twice, I think there was a glimmer of recognition, but if there wasn’t, it’s perfectly plausible that Phelan as master manipulator could easily psych Andy out without anyone else noticing. His threat, that he has plans for Andy, was chilling, and I can’t wait to see what they are as the budding writer finds himself in his own horror story.

Nights out go so fast when you’re having fun, but Chesney’s face was as long as a wet week as he made a feeble attempt to enjoy himself in the midst of an excited Sinead, Billy and Todd, even whinging about the difficulty of getting a taxi home when the night had only begun. It’s great to see the younger characters partying, but Chesney looked like he’d be more at home in front of the TV with slippers and a Bovril complaining that they don't make 'em like they used to. David wasn’t overly enthused to be there either, but at least he had an excuse, and it didn’t help when his wallet was robbed by someone attempting to chat him up.

We’ve seen Tracy enjoy some no strings attached fun with Luke while masking her disappointment that it won’t lead to anything, and it's Adam’s turn to experience the same when Maria spends the night with him, but confirms she’s not interested in a relationship. There was a point at which her character threatened to blend in with the wallpaper a number of months back, but she’s certainly made up for it.

Robert clearly feels guilt over his encroaching feelings for pregnant Michelle, and this seems to be the contributing factor to his decision not to move into the Rovers as opposed to, say, joining three adults living above a pub with a baby on the way. I did enjoy Liz's excitement at the prospect, however.

It was touching to see Gail grieve over Michael’s Christmas presents, and her group hug with Sarah and Bethany, the latter of whom isn’t smiling for long when she learns she’s to go to a concert with her Mam, Gary and Faye.

As Mary embarks on her search to find her son, I thought her hope, delight and anticipation in the face of the man she thought was her child, were very moving indeed. Such was her desire for it to be him, she quickly convinced herself of it, but was sadly left wanting as he revealed himself to be a twin. It was a pity, as he did seem worthy of her. While a device was needed to gain his attention and admission to his home, and it did allow us to see how desperate she was for it to be him, I’m not sure she and Norris pretending to be conducting a survey on sustainability for a cash prize was the best approach. I hope if she does decide to continue her search and call to anyone else, that she reveals her reason from the off, as I think it could actually make for powerful viewing. It will be interesting to see if Gemma can keep her secret after overhearing Norris on the phone attempting to get more information for Mary.

Nods to the past in Friday’s Corrie included reminiscing over Fred Elliott’s Christmas ham, and Adam’s recollections of ex and hairdresser to the Quo, Candice Stowe. I'm also a fan of speaking extras, as they ad a bit of variety and I thought Mary's non-son Jude and new character, pickpocket Shona, added a nice dimension.

With just one week to go, there are certainly enough strands of strong interest at the moment to ensure us that it's going to be a very interesting Christmas on the cobbles.

By Emma Hynes
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Coronation Street double episode review, Friday 4 November 2016

In the last week both our editor Glenda and blogger David have posted their astutely penned thoughts on how they are finding Corrie at the moment. Like me, they had spotted a few things that didn’t quite make sense, and stretched the bounds of believability. Yes, there is plenty to be excited about and I’m enjoying a lot of what I’m seeing, but tonight’s double episode offered more examples of those head scratching moments that, if handled differently, would complement the otherwise compelling scenes.

Take the Nazirs. We saw Yasmeen throw a party for Zeedan and Rana to celebrate their engagement with Rana's parents in attendance, and Zeedan reciting a lovely poem. It all went pear shaped however when Zeedan referenced the strength of his grandparents’ marriage and Sharif presented Rana with the necklace that should have been from Yasmeen, leading her to crack and reveal the affair in front of the guests. Considering Yasmeen’s personality in general and the dignity and self control shown by this strong, principled, family woman up to now, there was simply no way she would have lost this restraint and done this on such a special occasion for her grandson. Less is more, and I would rather have seen her struggle through with a brave face like the traditional Corrie matriarch, and break down after everyone had left. The impact would have been much greater than the choice to make ‘drama’ of it.

I very much enjoyed the aftermath, however, with great dialogue and performances all round, and this could still have happened had the public reveal not occurred. I was particularly delighted that Alya confessed to knowing for a month and blackmailing her grandfather rather than having him reveal it, or it being dragged it out. Sharif and Alya are promptly ordered to pack their bags, and we’re left with Zeedan consoling Yasmeen on the sofa. I’ve a lot of time for both characters and look forward to seeing them support one another in this.

Now, the Maria story. I’ve had to expend more energy than I should trying to tally this one up in my head so I’ve decided I’ll save further brain cells from certain death and just run with it. Tonight, a bloodstained rug is found in meddlesome Fiz’s bin and promptly brought to the attention of the police who question Maria about the fact that her credit card was used in London and to buy the phone the nasty texts came from.

Weatherfield Police’s whole handling of this is pantomime worthy considering the speed with which Maria has gone from victim to accused, and their refusal to consider any other perspective. The spotlight of course now falls on her relationship with Pablo, so she’s getting it from all sides. Meanwhile, Caz lurks in the shadows with a bandaged hand like a comic book villain. The most convenient thing about all this is Kate’s fear for Caz, the fiancée she dumped, called a psycho, and couldn’t wait to see the back of. It's as if the plot is determined to head in a particular direction and the characters must follow, whether their reaction becomes them or not.

Despite all the eye rolling and apparent disdain that greets Michael by his very presence in the Platt household, Sarah enthusiastically welcomes his desire to renew his wedding vows and Gail is thrilled when he plucks up the courage to ask her. Considering we know Les Dennis is leaving, I'm intrigued as to where this is headed.

Gary shows great character when he extends the hand of friendship to David, and remarkable resilience by attending a bonfire party at the house of the man whose actions were responsible for his mother's burns.

Meanwhile, Anna lies in a hospital bed and steels herself to see the extent of her injuries. I wasn’t sure how they planned to show her these and wondered why they felt the need to. What I wasn’t expecting was for them to take photographs, and for these to be shown to us. It all felt rather gratuitous and unnecessary. As with Yasmeen’s reveal, less is more, and it would have made for a far more poignant scene if we simply saw the curtain being pulled back and her quietly weeping or some such. In keeping with extremes, she then breaks up with Kevin, and quite harshly too, in an act of apparent self preservation. He too had to be shown the photographs, our second viewing, and it all felt too much.

Elsewhere, Alex fancies Gemma and plans to bring her to Roy and Cathy’s wedding as his plus two, his plus one being Nessa. I jumped at the mention of her name, and would love to see her back on the street, though I know there are others who don’t share my enthusiasm. Characters who divide are all part of the fun, though, aren't they. In other wedding news, Roy doesn’t want to get married in a church out of respect for a religion he doesn’t practice which is a perfectly valid and noble standpoint which Cathy should admire him for. He changes his mind in the end though, and Cathy is delighted rather than regretting that one of them had to compromise their beliefs.

These episodes had some great performances and storylines, but the penchant for extremes and drama actually divested some scenes of their full emotional capacity. If we could just opt for subtlety where it’s needed, then I think we would have some very strong drama on our hands.

By Emma Hynes
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Coronation Street double episode review, Friday 30 September 2016

Friday’s Corrie managed to sum up how I feel about the programme at the moment in two episodes; we are being treated to some brilliant and compelling dialogue and performances, but some plot developments don't match the quality on show. The Todd and Phelan story, for example, continues to be sublime, but I found the end of Bethany’s bullying saga to be a source of frustration.

The bullying storyline was tied up with an efficiency which belied its pace and seriousness. After being expelled, Lauren shuffles out the door with her furious father as if they’ve just been told they must leave the chocolate factory because she sat on the golden goose machine and it came up with ‘bad egg’. There is even an attempt at humour when he says his daughter was a ‘stunner’ before David cut her hair.

Bethany learning of this outside a toilet door in a public area of the school without a parent or family member present was in stark contrast to the sit down meeting at which she was suspended. While she is called brave by the head teacher, there is no apology for the treatment she received. What we do get is a beautiful scene in which Bethany breaks down as she tells Sarah and Gail the news. Lu Fallon has been brilliant throughout this storyline, and I think Bethany has fast become one of the most likeable characters on the street.

Caz claims to be in love with Maria, but after any hope of romance is quashed, and Maria asks her to move out while she takes a trip to London to play happy families with Pablo, Caz calls the Home Office, opens Maria’s post and eyes up her new credit card. While there was a panto villain element to this reaction, I think we can agree that Caz is unhinged, as we’ve already seen her fake an injury and stage a burglary. There has been no cause for me to warm to this character, and Maria’s behaviour of late has been such that I don’t have much sympathy for her either, so it’s hard to care about any of this. I did enjoy Kirk’s awkwardness alone in the flat with Caz, and little Liam played a star turn in both this and Thursday’s episode.

Had Roy and Cathy announced a date for their marriage a few months back, I would’ve been delighted, but I felt as uncomfortable with it as Tyrone last night considering recent developments in Cathy’s character. Something about it doesn’t feel right, and despite Roy’s certainty, his demeanour appears to contradict it. I want to see Roy continue to flourish and don’t think this can happen with his current arrangement.

From cruelly locking Max into the annex to selling flowers they stole from graves, I’ve a feeling those Alahan twins will give Amy Barlow a run for her money on the cobbles of the future. But have they met their match in Erica? Mary ‘Poppins’ Taylor has plenty of advice on discipline, but after a prank involving daubing marmite under Erica’s nose and watching her trawl the house for the mystery odour, it seems fighting fire with fire will be her tactic, and I say bring it on. I think Erica is a great character, and would enjoy seeing her at the centre of a prominent storyline.

The strongest two elements of this double were David learning that Clayton pleading guilty to manslaughter may result in a reduced sentence if he’s found guilty, and the Todd and Phelan development saga.

The flat scam story is moving at such a pace with so many twists, and it's the highlight of the show for me at the moment.Todd’s attempt to opt out and be a better man is foiled as he’s posed with a moral dilemma on discovering Sarah has signed on the dotted line without his knowledge after coming into £15,000. Phelan threatens Todd with Vinny, should he blow the whistle, but so far, Vinny’s violence is anecdotal and I’m wondering if it’s all a ruse to keep Todd onside and it’s Phelan he needs to fear most.

Todd agrees to come back in on the scam provided Sarah gets her money back out of his and Phelan’s share and they shake on it. But the mind games don’t end there, as Phelan tells Billy they’ll be funding his trip to Kenyan orphans out of the profits. As Todd and Billy kiss and embrace on a ‘total honesty’ pact, Todd’s face tells us we can be sure his moral dilemmas are set to continue.

There is a definite change in the air on Corrie, and on the whole, I’m enjoying it. It's currently excelling in many aspects, but I feel the convenient plot developments such as Beth's bigamy and Sharif's affair need to be avoided, and storylines such as Izzy's pain and Bethany's bullying need to be tied up appropriately in order to match the quality it’s showing itself to be capable of elsewhere.

By Emma Hynes
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Coronation Street double episode review, Friday 16 September 2016

There was something distinctly different about Friday’s double Coronation Street. While the action proceeded at pace, there was something wonderfully measured about how it unfolded, showing the value of allowing time for scenes and dialogue to resonate, and that this doesn’t have to mean dragging out the plot.

After the planning committee approve the development, Eileen, Phelan and Vinny celebrate. Phelan pops home on the premise that he’s going to ring the architect to kick things off, but instead, tells them their services aren't required. Suspicious Todd hides in the kitchen, and on revealing he’s heard everything, a brilliant confrontation ensues between the pair.

Before Todd can get to Eileen, Phelan calls Vinny who damages her phone before driving her straight to the proposed development where Phelan meets them.

There is a pantomime element to Vinny’s aside about the building being a death trap, which is a source of humour, but does have us wondering what Phelan intends to do with Eileen once they get in there, especially when he asks Vinny to stay around in case he needs a hand.

What follows is a fantastic rooftop scene which exposes Eileen’s greed and sees Phelan masterfully manipulate her into acknowledging that she doesn’t trust Todd. There was a point at which I genuinely thought he would push her from the roof and it got me thinking how spectacular an occurrence like that would be. In the complete absence of any spoilers, we would have been flabbergasted. If Eileen had met her demise, it would be the strongest proof that spoilers aren’t essential to making headlines, getting viewers to tune in or talk about the show. I was watching alone and the ad break cliffhanger in which Phelan asked her if she was ready for her real surprise as she sat precariously on the edge had me asking the cat if we were about to see something astonishing.

Eileen emerged unscathed, but I wasn’t disappointed, as if this segment is anything to go by, the future looks bright.

Eileen is taken elsewhere by Vinny as Phelan heads home to a frantic Todd. Eileen’s failure of a son (her description, not mine) demands to know where she is, but Phelan calmly persuades him not to worry before revealing the details of his plan. He claims to love Eileen and want a better life for her and appeals to Todd’s vanity, flattering his intelligence and pointing out that being a florist is a waste of his potential before telling him he could be part of it if he wanted to. It’s also interesting how he justifies his actions. According to Phelan, divesting people of a few thousand will not damage them, and even constitute a life lesson; it's as if he's doing them a favour. Whether Phelan actually believes this or not, he's attempting to assuage guilt in the hope that Todd will join him. Does he really want Todd on board, or is it a case of Phelan keeping his friends close, and his enemies closer? Either way, it’s brilliant.

There was another twist in the tail with the arrival of Weatherfield police. Phelan departs with them to discuss allegations of fraud and kidnap while Todd looks a tad uncomfortable. Despite suspecting Todd put in the call, hearing Phelan say ‘the offer still stands’ as he brushes past him is rather bracing, and has me intrigued as to what’s to come. Considering these form two of my top seven favourite Corrie characters, you can imagine how much I was enjoying this anyway, but tonight brought the plot to another level, and it’s great to watch.

Audrey and Freddie’s Bistro dinner is cut short by the arrival of his old friend Angelica. I actually thought it was his wife at first, and we were witnessing another shock retcon. Spying from the bar, she waits to strike while Audrey’s in the ladies. Frankly out of order, she accuses him of crying crocodile tears at Sadie’s wake and getting over his wife too quickly. Freddie then leaves a baffled Audrey high and dry. This was a deliberate action on the part of this woman, and a tad creepy if you ask me; of all the Bistros in all the land, etc.

I’ve already conveyed my thoughts on Beth’s bigamy, and tonight we saw the aftermath in which she unsuccessfully tries to justify her deceit, and a devastated Kirk moves to Maria’s. It’s disappointing to hear Beth lash out as if everyone else is wrong, particularly when the police arrive at the factory, and she asks Kirk how he could do that to her. Irony, anyone? I did enjoy the reaction of the factory staff, including Johnny’s discomfort at her tears. It was great to be surprised that Craig called the police. What an exceptional character he is. I hope the drinking to cope was a one off, as I wouldn’t like to see him go down that route.

Another marvellous scene came courtesy of Roy who struggled with whether or not to share a room with Cathy. There was no dialogue required as he looked at his wedding picture on the bedside locker, and sat silently on his side of the bed, patting what once was Hayley’s. Beautiful. While he agrees, it has to be on his terms, as he doesn’t want Cathy in the same bed or room he and Hayley shared. Upset, Cathy feels she’s rushed him into it, and Anna tells her Roy has to do things in his own time, despite her being the one who prodded him in the first place. Sigh.

An important decision is also being deliberated by Billy who thinks he’d be better off leaving the church. Considering his favourite part of the job is helping people, a conversation with Sarah makes him realise he can do this in another profession. It’s great to see Todd taking this so seriously and pointing out what a massive decision it is. To add to the rooftop and Roy scenes, we have another in which Todd tells Billy he loves him, and beaming Billy returns the sentiment.

Despite my reservations about the bigamy storyline, I really enjoyed this double episode. It certainly feels like change is in the air, and there is plenty to be excited about.

By Emma Hynes
www.emmahynes.net
Twitter: @ELHynes
Facebook: @EmmaHynesWrites
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Coronation Street double episode review, Friday 9 September 2016

Let’s cut straight to the chase, pun intended, David Platt was the highlight of Friday’s double Corrie. Struggling with grief despite putting on a front, and even joking about it, he’s forced to face up to his feelings when Bethany admits to missing Kylie, and Gail confronts him over the bloodstained hoodie hidden under his pillow.

I didn’t agree with the unquestioning suspension from school of both Bethany and Lauren, and with the return of Brian Packham in the offing, one would have to think it would have been handled differently had he been in the hot seat. It's not clear why Lauren decides to pay the salon a visit, but it's convenient as Bethany is alone while helping the temporarily absent David. On his return, he appeals to the pair to make up, using Kylie as proof of how serious confrontation can get. He dupes Lauren into having an olive branch wash and blow-dry, and Bethany into going for ‘posh coffee’. 

Once alone with Lauren, he insists she end her bullying campaign. When she resists, she ends up getting the ‘choppy bob’ she never asked for. I could only imagine the Renshaw twins beside them, saying nothing but looking disapprovingly on as they did when Audrey gave Nessa a dodgy do. Although if that was the case, David might have stopped short of warning Lauren that it will be her throat next time if she messes with any of his family again.

We’ve seen Weatherfield police arrive slower at murder scenes than this bit of hair shuffling off its mortal curl. David is nonplussed, but the same can’t be said for Bethany who now has more than the cancellation of her gym membership by Sarah to worry about. Having entered Lauren's name in the book as if she made an appointment, David tells the police she simply changed her mind half way through the cut, and failed to pay at that, despite being given an expensive treatment. 

Much like the school meeting, apparently hearing two sides of a story isn’t enough to take measured action, and the police still see fit to arrest him for affray and false imprisonment. Gemma revels in the drama and adds that she witnessed the whole thing and would be happy to make a statement; unnecessary and unlikely, I would've thought, considering Gemma’s general attitude towards the police.

Despite chauffeuring both to the station, it all appears to come to nothing as they don’t seem to have enough evidence to charge David with anything; a fact I would’ve thought they’d have established from the off and saved themselves the petrol.

On release, Gemma suggests they celebrate, but David isn’t interested, telling her it’s not a game. Back home, he assures Gail he’ll bin the hoodie, and anything else that prevents him from moving on, which makes his subsequent sending of a friend request to Macca (AKA Cormac Hibbs) from a social media profile in the name Mark Bailey, all the more chilling. I'm looking forward to seeing how his grief will manifest itself next.

We’ve long known that we're unlikely to see Maria in the Mastermind chair any time soon, but she reached new lows tonight. Considering how he's been treated, it was quite a feat for her to convince Luke to give up a night with the footie lads at the Taj to attend the Regional Stylists’ Awards with her, and in a tux too. Rita’s resulting beer mat wafting swoon as he pitched up in the Rovers did make me giggle. 

If Maria’s Persuasion worked, however, her Sense and Sensibility went out the window when she ditched Luke yet again for a tearful Caz who was upset on missing her chance at a job interview after an altercation with Kate, and an early bus. Interestingly, Kate appears to suspect a connection between Caz’s newfound role as Maria’s bodyguard and the break-in, an assertion which results in Caz grabbing Kate, the latter shaking her off and spilling coffee on her interview suit with possibly the first paper cup in the show’s history to have anything in it.

Grieving for the army she couldn’t get further away from, and lamenting how she enjoyed being told what to do and can't cope in the 'civvie' world, despite getting on just fine up to now, Caz definitely has Maria wrapped around her little finger. Maria then gets tearful over her world falling apart with the infidelity and death of Liam, and the sorry pair set their sights on a takeaway and a bottle of wine. In truth, it's hard to feel pity for either of them.

Whether there's a spark between Gary and Sarah or not, the sight of them talking in the street leads Izzy to realise and accept that some day he'll want to move on with someone else, and she doesn't want to be the albatross around his neck. I was glad to hear this, and while I've never thought of Gary and Sarah as a couple, there could be something in it.

I like the friendship between Craig and Faye, and her encouraging him to write a letter to his Dad which he could burn afterwards was lovely. Even if he made a smart comment about her own situation with Miley, which was unbecoming of his character, she unflinchingly persisted. He later bins his list of questions for his Dad, but she winkles the name of the prison from Kirk. We'll have to wait and see what she does with this information.

Despite being fully aware that it’s only for a few nights, Todd announces to Eileen that he’s moved in with Billy, leaving the reluctant vicar uncomfortable and the too proximate Sean upset. Todd takes to the rectory like the faithful to prayer, but Billy interrupts DVD and pizza night to ask if his lodger is flat hunting and to reveal he’s not ready for such a big step. This results in Todd storming off, and the tempestuous start to their relationship persists. Billy’s not the only one hesitant in this regard, as Aidan continues to waver. However, he finally agrees to move in with Eva after being pressed yet again, and she's predictably over the moon. Knowing what we know, will it all end in tears for poor Eva as it has so many times before, or will Aidan manage to keep his secret?

Again, David Platt was my highlight of this double with some great scenes and plenty to want to stay tuned for.

By Emma Hynes

www.emmahynes.net
Twitter: @ELHynes
Facebook: @EmmaHynesWrites
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Coronation Street double episode review, Friday 26 August 2016

Whether or not the bins were to go out front or back didn’t remain a pressing issue for long on Friday’s double Corrie, as a number of lies took centre stage to varying effect.

Universal smiles greeted Nick as Eva and Simon found him making morning coffee at Leanne’s flat, which, of course, can only mean one thing. It's all moving rather quickly for the couple, and Nick has gone from uncertainty to asking Leanne that she and Simon not only move in with him, but that he be declared as the father of her baby. Nick may like to think he has snipped Gail’s apron strings, but she appears the main motivation behind this latest suggestion, as he thinks she will cope better with the news that they’re back together if she believes the child is his.

I do enjoy a Platt convention, and there have been interviews at Weatherfield station less intense than Gail’s interrogation of Nick and Leanne in the Rovers as they confirm they’re back on.

It wouldn’t be like Tracy Barlow to see them emerge from the antenatal clinic, and not reveal this to maximum effect, however, and announcing their news in front of the Platts is the only thing to put Gail on mute, temporarily at least. This would appear to leave Leanne with no choice but to publicly announce her pregnancy, and say that Nick is the father.

Meanwhile Liz and Steve watch agog from the bar with as many questions as Gail. This, together with Michelle's obliviousness, was played for comedic effect, and while I did laugh, it's perhaps at odds with the seriousness of the situation. Steve didn't cover himself in glory by confronting Leanne in the bathroom and acting like this was the best solution ever. He even raised a toast with the couple despite looks from Leanne which I'd never wish to be on the receiving end of.

While I do like Leanne and Nick as a couple, their history aside, I'm not yet sure how I feel about how this is playing out.

Meanwhile, Michael is at home with Max and Lily in the wake of her first birthday without their Mam. Sensitive to how Max is feeling, Michael agrees to help him find Kylie’s favourite beach pebble in the garden. After he does, Michael presents a shoebox into which Max can put his memories of his Mam. This was a beautiful set of scenes and more fitting of Lily's first birthday without Kylie than the Platts arguing in the Rovers, as amusing as it was.

Gary continues to be a concerned friend to Bethany, and is astute enough to spot there’s more going on behind the diet pills, which she insists she’s stopped taking, than she is making out. He later finds her in tears at the bus stop and it transpires she’s failed three exams. Gary encourages her to tell her Mam, and he’s by her side as she does. Sarah blames herself and feels terrible even though Bethany says she can resit them. 

Later, however, Gary catches Lauren taunting Bethany at the gym and jumps in just after Bethany throws a punch. After kicking Lauren out, Gary tells Bethany the school must know and gives her two choices; tell her Mam, or he goes with her. I'm glad she opts for the latter, as this storyline of Gary offering support and encouraging her to share her problems is right up my street.

Aidan is a man on the edge and thinks Maria’s making it too obvious that she’s trying to avoid Eva. He wants them to act normally yet, as Maria points out, he has called into the salon when she’s alone without getting a haircut. After a reluctant trip to the gym with Kate, Sophie and Eva, Maria becomes more than Eva’s boxercise punch bag as she extends the hand of friendship to help her find a man after breaking up with Luke.

I'm enjoying Aidan's palpable panic in this storyline, and Maria certainly has the feel of a loose cannon about her at times, so it's justified. It will be interesting to see how they both cope with Eva's mission to see Maria paired off.

Vinny may appear to have the upper hand on Phelan when he cops that the money needed for the development is coming out of Eileen’s pocket, and not his, but I still think Phelan would have him for breakfast if it came to it.

When she returns from Thailand to reveal that Jason thinks the investment is a great idea, the relief on Phelan's face is followed closely by a set of eyes peeping over an unassuming mug that would give jaws a run for his money.

By Emma Hynes

www.emmahynes.net
Twitter: @ELHynes
Facebook: @EmmaHynesWrites
Instagram: emmalouhynes

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Coronation Street double episode review, Friday 8 July 2016

Sometimes an episode of Corrie comes along, or in this case, two, that leaves you punching the air with excitement that it is of such quality, and it was only apt that last night's double would be such considering the day that was in it.

Opening with Ken tactfully suggesting to Tracy that he bring Amy to the graveyard separately, and Tracy ruefully accepting, we were left in no doubt that Deirdre would be at the heart of it on what was her birthday and the first anniversary of her death. Every element of it appeared to be crafted with her in mind, with a big emphasis on great conversation, positivity and goodness, and we managed to see the best in almost everyone.

We had Robert agreeing to accompany Tracy to the graveyard so she wouldn’t be alone, and Todd sympathetic to her, making a beautiful bouquet to take with her. There was a lovely scene between Ken and Rita in the Rovers as they reminisced about old times, and a satisfying mention of Tricia Hopkins and her Deirdre-induced black eye, having spread false rumours about her then husband, and Tracy’s father, Ray Langton. Amy is upset to overhear them laughing, but is counselled by Robert who finds her crying on Maxine’s bench; another brilliant scene with excellent dialogue and performances which endeared Robert greatly. 

His sensitive suggestion that Tracy might be suffering provides Amy with food for thought, and as Tracy sits at Deirdre’s grave, upset and lonely, her reaction to the arrival of Robert and Amy would actually have you feeling sorry for her. While Amy seems intent on the day together not changing anything, an encounter with Ken, Rita, Eileen and Steve in the Rovers makes her realise how much her Mum needs her, and she decides to move home, much to Tracy’s gratitude and delight.

Every one of these scenes was a joy to watch and a credit to Deirdre's memory.

Not only was Tracy a sympathetic character on Friday night, she showed genuine feeling for Todd’s predicament with Billy, reminding him that, today of all days, she realises life is too short. Todd thinks stealing his mate’s boyfriend is a bridge too far, and even gives Billy the brush off when he drops by to talk about Todd's confession the night before. I loved this scene, especially Billy gently urging Todd to have respect, and not embarrass himself. It doesn’t work though, and Todd dismisses him.

Meanwhile, Sean is enthusiastically ironing no less than 15 shirts for their trip to London without any idea that Billy is about to break up with him after spotting Todd in the florist as they go by in the cab. An angry Eileen later tells Billy that Sean has gone to London anyway when they’re interrupted by matchmaker Tracy Barlow who drags him around to Todd in the shop and announces they’re both single before leaving them to it.

While I did feel sorry for Sean, I was positively giddy about the ensuing scenes in which Todd and Billy went around to number 11 so that he could pick up his things. The atmosphere was charged with chemistry, hesitation and desire before they finally gave in to their feelings. Todd asking Billy mid-kiss if he knew he was trouble, and Billy replying that he'd heard as much, had me rapt. Daniel Brocklebank and Bruno Langley played this to perfection, and it's marvellous for me to see something I've wanted come to pass.

A rather transformed Simon enjoys the banter with Leanne, and after she hurts her back at her loathed new job, he’s happy to go out with a delighted Nick instead so she can rest up. When he and Nick return, she’s amazed and grateful to see him so happy. Nick stays for a drink and massages her back in a scene which had me not quite knowing where to look and Leanne grinning like a Cheshire cat. This doesn’t go unnoticed by Simon who remarks that he was always the man for her, but she assures him they're just friends. Does this mark the conclusion of Simon's troubled ways? While it has all ended rather abruptly, I do hope so. The verdict is still out on whether Leanne and Nick reuniting would be a good move.

It’s lovely to see Bethany so excited about joining the gym considering her present woes, but Kylie finds her deflated when it turns out she needs her Mum to sign the form, and can’t afford the fees. Forging Sarah’s signature, Kylie marches her around to Gary to get a discount.

Meanwhile, Gemma is tormented in Prima Doner for free kebabs by Macca and newcomer Clayton. Chesney returns from Wolverhampton where he’s been helping Cilla after a fall, and the pair scurry out into the street just as Kylie and Bethany are passing. They can’t resist demanding to know how Callum was found in the Platt's and Kylie insists Bethany ignore them, that it’s all behind them. I enjoyed Kylie's outlook in these episodes, and her earlier scene with Gemma in which the pair made friends again. Having learned of that spoiler last week, it has certainly changed the viewing experience for me. I'm rather enjoying looking for clues everywhere as to what might happen, but remain with absolutely no idea. I'm glad about this, and happy to be sufficiently intrigued.

I had to watch these episodes twice I enjoyed them that much. Written by Mark Burt and Damon Rochefort, they were sensitive without being saccharine, and the humour was gentle; Steve's awkwardness in the face of Sean's break-up. and Tracy demanding to know what a man in the graveyard was looking at being two highlights. They had a perfect mix of normality and excitement, and a homeliness fitting of episodes marking the anniversary of a character such as Deirdre. As I've said before, Deirdre's special legacy is not just made up of memories on the Street, but the sense of what it was to know her. This double episode was crafted such that you could sense her everywhere, and you can't ask for a more fitting anniversary tribute.

By Emma Hynes

www.emmahynes.net

Twitter: @ELHynes

Facebook: @EmmaHynesWrites

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Coronation Street double episode review, Friday 1 July 2016

Tracy in pain, Izzy in pain, Caz in fake pain, and mere seconds of light relief. Yes, I must admit, having read the previews, I wasn’t filled with enthusiasm for tonight’s Corrie, but here goes.

Deciding to swerve her appointment at the specialist in favour of going to a violin recital she’s not welcome at, Tracy’s efforts to win Amy over continue to hit a bum note. The mere sight of her mother causes Amy to make a mistake, and run from the hall. Tracy might be sincere about getting back in her daughter’s good books, but predictably gives us reason to ask if she’s worthy of it. As Ken gives her a stern telling off for failing to respect Amy’s wish that she not attend, she is overheard by her daughter making a snide remark about her musical talent. Ken and Liz really are great role models for Amy where her mother fails. 

Of course, it’s all about Tracy, and Eccles has to listen to her ‘poor me’ routine as she brings him for a walk before collapsing in the ginnel.

Beth and Robert find her with Eccles’ help and she’s whisked to hospital where Ken later joins them, while Amy refuses. It’s poor form on Beth’s part to be blaming Ken, who knew nothing, for giving her a hard time, and Robert for not believing her. But I do enjoy Tracy and Beth's friendship, and her remark to Tracy about Robert scooping her up like Richard Gere in An Officer and a Gentleman, and how she would’ve loved it if she wasn’t unconscious, was delivered with great comic timing by Lisa George.

Tracy is more interested in winning Robert back than the fact that her only kidney might fail, and news that things are looking good for a recovery doesn’t make much of an impact on her after he knocks her back and she’s left in tears. Learning from Ken that Amy doesn’t want to see her leaves her reeling and more determined than ever to win her daughter back. I really feel at this point that Tracy’s story needs to go somewhere. Okay, we don’t want her to be ‘good’, but this cycle of bad action – bad reaction – self pity needs to reach its conclusion. Will this be the long awaited and much needed turning point?

It’s similarly grim at chez Izzy as she prepares for sentencing with a child rota for Anna and Gary, and plenty of tears. She’s emotional after leaving Jake with Anna, and ends up snogging Gary. He responds by kissing her back and adds a dash of false hope for a reconciliation. It’s anyone’s guess who’s looking after Jake with Anna in court by her son’s side, but anyway, it’s a two month sentence and more misery for Izzy who is denied a phone call and a photo as she’s left alone in her cell. Meanwhile Anna’s none too pleased to hear about the kiss, and insists Gary set Izzy straight. He knows he has to, but can’t do it while she’s in the clink. Talk about complicating matters. I never believed in this couple, and so I hope he does, for both their sakes.

Speaking of couples I can’t believe in, Caz comes to the rescue when a broken cooker puts paid to Liam’s birthday party at Maria’s, and she offers to host it in Kate’s without consulting her. No surprise there. She even offers to get a piñata. The piñata was the least of it, it was a full on Mexican themed party which is what all the kids are into these days, isn’t it? Sophie may have been (quite bizarrely) annoyed at Luke to hear Caz and Kate had been invited along, but she’s delighted when he reveals he spotted Caz’s supposedly injured leg moving freely and found the painkiller she allegedly took down the sink. Sophie is determined to tell Kate. To what ends? I don’t think Sophie and Kate are any more believable, but I guess at least Kate would be aware of the truth, though I can't see her believing it. I am wondering though, what has Caz told the army to explain her absence?

Clear highlight of the night is Pat Phelan. When Pat wants to create ‘atmospherics’ and regale you with a ‘stormy night’ tale, you had better look enthusiastic. ‘I’m a storyteller at heart’ he tells his blank faced accomplice arsonist before chillingly revealing his calculated plans to take over Jason’s business. Cue Eileen with his unhappy ending; Jason has put her in charge of his business and finances. Pat is seething as she gets excited about cutting her hours at Streetcars to become more involved and take over the administration. While I was delighted to learn Jason had done this, I was surprised to find myself as irritated as Pat at the thought of her meddling in affairs. Could it be that I subconsciously want Pat to succeed at world domination? I’m intrigued as to where he will go from here and don’t doubt the capacity of his evil internal Sat Nav to recalculate the route. 

By Emma Hynes
www.emmahynes.net
Facebook: EmmaHynesWrites
Twitter: @ELHynes

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